Computer Science Canada

Who Here Isn't Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
Author:  haskell [ Wed Apr 11, 2007 11:21 pm ]
Post subject:  Who Here Isn't Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
I was wondering, who here isn't pursuing a career in computer science.

Personally, I can't see me pursuing a career in something I do in my spare time. It isn't really plausible, considering other sciences a lot more than computer science. That being said, I was wondering who else is like this, and what you are going to pursue instead.

-----------

I am hoping to pursue a career as a Doctor. More specifically, an internist(specialist in Internal Medicine) with a sub-specialization in Infectious Disease. That might sound kind of bland, but when you look at a list of infectious diseases, it is evident that diagnosis could be challenging. Plus outbreaks and pandemics and such has become evident all around us. As well as new infectious diseases.

To get to med school, I will do an honours degree Biochemistry and Microbiology/Cell Biology at Memorial University of Newfoundland.

-----------

Now its your turn. Wink
Author:  Cervantes [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 12:53 am ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
Computers are a tool, nothing more. What you use that tool for is the big question. Personally, I want to use computers as a tool for math and physics. Hence, I'm studying mathematical physics at Waterloo, and planning on taking a CS minor, but I haven't really looked at the course requirements for that yet.
Author:  BenLi [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 7:44 am ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
i don't intend to pursue a career in computer science.
Author:  bugzpodder [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 11:00 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Who Here Isn't Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
building good software is a challenge. it is enough to keep me going.
Author:  bugzpodder [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 11:01 am ]
Post subject:  Re: RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
Cervantes @ Thu Apr 12, 2007 12:53 am wrote:
Computers are a tool, nothing more. What you use that tool for is the big question. Personally, I want to use computers as a tool for math and physics. Hence, I'm studying mathematical physics at Waterloo, and planning on taking a CS minor, but I haven't really looked at the course requirements for that yet.

if you are interested in doing so, i suggest you start looking soon, even if you are first year.
Author:  Clayton [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 11:18 am ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
Right now I fully intend on doing a CS major in University (where is another story). I love the feeling you get after solving a problem you thought was unsolvable until you find the right algorithm and it all comes together. I also love knowing what goes on behind the scenes, and I think that taking the time to get a CS Degree (Masters, maybe PhD if things work out right) would give me great insight into that kind of thing. So, I guess you could say yes, I intend on pursuing a career in Computer Science.
Author:  Cervantes [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 12:26 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
bugzpodder @ Thu Apr 12, 2007 11:01 am wrote:
Cervantes @ Thu Apr 12, 2007 12:53 am wrote:
Computers are a tool, nothing more. What you use that tool for is the big question. Personally, I want to use computers as a tool for math and physics. Hence, I'm studying mathematical physics at Waterloo, and planning on taking a CS minor, but I haven't really looked at the course requirements for that yet.

if you are interested in doing so, i suggest you start looking soon, even if you are first year.

Yeah, for sure. I'll start looking into it this summer.
Author:  Tony [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 12:30 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Who Here Isn't Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
haskell @ Wed Apr 11, 2007 11:21 pm wrote:
Personally, I can't see me pursuing a career in something I do in my spare time.

Oh yeah, that's what I thought when I went into Mechatronics Engineering. That plan backfired though. I've ended up taking jobs as software developer every co-op workterm anyways. Now I'm changing my major back into Computer Science. So yeah, I fully intend to pursue a career in CS.
Author:  HellblazerX [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 1:06 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Who Here Isn't Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
haskell @ Wed Apr 11, 2007 11:21 pm wrote:
I am hoping to pursue a career as a Doctor. More specifically, an internist(specialist in Internal Medicine) with a sub-specialization in Infectious Disease.

Hey, hey, same here. Though I'm not too sure where I wanna specialize in. I'm planning on doing a degree in Medical Sciences at the University of Western Ontario for my pre-med. Just out of curiosity, do you have an idea where you want to get your MD at?
Author:  Bobrobyn [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 1:26 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Who Here Isn't Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
haskell @ Thu Apr 12, 2007 12:21 am wrote:
Personally, I can't see me pursuing a career in something I do in my spare time.


The neat thing about pursuing a career in something you like to do in your spare time, is that you get to do something you love. How many people go into a program because it has a good earning potential? I've personally met too many. When you can do something you love, and make money for it....I personally think that's just awesome.

I've had no clue what I wanted to do after highschool. For an entire semester, I lost motivation and ended up failing 3 courses in the last semester of grade 11. However, when I took grade 11 computer engineering in grade 12, and discovered programming and then later, computer science, I got all my motivation back. I finally had something worth pursuing....and now I go to the University of Guelph for a degree in compsci. Of course, I did have to take an extra year of highschool...but shhhh, it was a victory lap Razz

I could see myself pursuing other things...like physics, psychology...or even philosophy, but so far, I'm loving computer science. I'll probably end up minoring in one of the three things I mentioned, though.

@haskell: It is cool that you want to be a doctor, though. I considered that at one point, but I couldn't even become a life guard, because I didn't want other peoples lives to depend on me. Good luck Smile
Author:  bugzpodder [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 1:33 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
Clayton @ Thu Apr 12, 2007 11:18 am wrote:
Right now I fully intend on doing a CS major in University (where is another story). I love the feeling you get after solving a problem you thought was unsolvable until you find the right algorithm and it all comes together. I also love knowing what goes on behind the scenes, and I think that taking the time to get a CS Degree (Masters, maybe PhD if things work out right) would give me great insight into that kind of thing. So, I guess you could say yes, I intend on pursuing a career in Computer Science.


its never about finding the right algorithm, its always about designing an algorithm
Author:  haskell [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 2:05 pm ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
@ HellblazerX: I was hoping for McGill. I recommend checking it out: here . However, wherever I get accepted is great for me. And its great seeing someone who is hoping to take the same path Smile. Maybe we'll cross paths someday? You can contact me if you'd like, MSN>ALK: brandon.m.skinner@gmail.com

@ Bobrobyn: Its a natural step. I work best under-pressure, and I have a really great memory for things, meaning I could remember the disorders, symptoms, and make a logical diagnosis. Programming helped feed my logical mind, but it is a hobby, and I am very off and on with it. I love chemistry and biology, and applying it in a challenging field that is very respected is something I'm very into. The money isn't what I'm going for, its the opportunity. As a doctor, I could teach if I wanted to, conduct research, and apply everything in a way to actual give back to a world I've taken so much from.

The thing is to pursue your dreams. We all have motives for pursuing our dreams. But always follow your instincts, because if you don't, you could end up in the hole with a job you hate.
Author:  PaulButler [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 3:11 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
bugzpodder @ Thu Apr 12, 2007 1:33 pm wrote:
Clayton @ Thu Apr 12, 2007 11:18 am wrote:
Right now I fully intend on doing a CS major in University (where is another story). I love the feeling you get after solving a problem you thought was unsolvable until you find the right algorithm and it all comes together. I also love knowing what goes on behind the scenes, and I think that taking the time to get a CS Degree (Masters, maybe PhD if things work out right) would give me great insight into that kind of thing. So, I guess you could say yes, I intend on pursuing a career in Computer Science.


its never about finding the right algorithm, its always about designing an algorithm


In context, I think that's what Clayton meant... That is how I read it anyway.
Author:  Superskull85 [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 5:22 pm ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
For me, well...I have two things I want to do right now...but I don't which one I really want to do. I really like to program but I really like to play music. I have good grades in both classes, both marks are about the same.

There are two things that I like to do. I like to play music and try to find connections between music and how the notes might make somethings, like colours, waves, meanings of life etc. From my analysis I like to compose music that would invisibly produce things, like a piece of visual art.

I also like to solve problems in math, computer science, and other math related subjects. I am good at mapping out an entire program and it's code in my head in about five minutes (There may be errors and it would take longer for more complex programs). I like to create ideas in my mind (I hate actually planning them on paper). I am very good at math related subjects, and I enjoy it.

So to be honest I really don't know what I want to do. I have courses lined up so that I can take either path (Or both if I can). I don't know what university I want to go to yet. (If anyone has any suggestions I would appreciate that. I live in Ontario, and I would prefer a school within those boundaries).

Maybe I'll pursue both and become a Programming Musician, or something like that.
Author:  Geostigma [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 5:30 pm ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
I'm either going to be a programmer, CG artist or just a cop. I have a lot of doors open to me but I like the idea of being a computer programming masta.
Author:  Craige [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 9:20 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Who Here Isn't Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
I see your point about doing your hobby as a career. If you're being told to do it everyday, it becomes like work, and eventually you may tire of it.

I plan on pursuing a career in computer science, but not I don't plan on working as a programmer under any corporate title. I plan on making my own way. I'm going to start off with web development on a personal baises. I've got some sites I want to set up. I don't expect them to bring in money, but if they do, all the better. I'm also going to get into web hosting as a means to get by in the early years. Finally, I have plans to start up a software company, Neo Enterprise Technologies with a couple friends. I have a couple of unique (I hope. I haven't been able to find anything like them yet) software ideas to start off with.

So, as I said, I plan on working in compsci, but on my own terms. Won't be easy, but it'll be worth it.
Author:  ericfourfour [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 9:27 pm ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
I am going to pursue a career in computer science. I was thinking as a math/cs teacher. Those are my favourite (and best) classes.

What I really want to do though, is be a jazz musician. Unfortunately, that career does not pay well (unless you become famous) and I don't want to have to worry about bills and debt. I think it would be better to do on the side.
Author:  Tony [ Fri Apr 13, 2007 11:43 am ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
@Superskull85 - there are plenty of applications where music meets programming. Besides all the conventional music related software, there's also some pretty cool stuff to get your inspired Wink
Author:  Superskull85 [ Sat Apr 14, 2007 6:51 pm ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
That actually looks interesting... I think I'll look into it.
Author:  Skynet [ Sat Apr 14, 2007 7:15 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
Tony @ Fri Apr 13, 2007 11:43 am wrote:
@Superskull85 - there are plenty of applications where music meets programming. Besides all the conventional music related software, there's also some pretty cool stuff to get your inspired Wink

That's really cool. Figure a vision system on top and a projector on the underside?
Author:  Tony [ Sat Apr 14, 2007 10:05 pm ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
multitouch systems that I'm familiar with usually utilize both projectors and vision systems on the underside. It's likely to be infrared cameras for the latter.
Author:  Skynet [ Sat Apr 14, 2007 11:30 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
Tony @ Sat Apr 14, 2007 10:05 pm wrote:
multitouch systems that I'm familiar with usually utilize both projectors and vision systems on the underside. It's likely to be infrared cameras for the latter.

Yeah, I think you're right - the system still responds when they obscure it from above.
I think something like that would be fun to build. Computer vision is bad-ass.
Author:  agnivohneb [ Sun Apr 15, 2007 10:17 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Who Here Isn't Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
Hmmmm. Computer Science for a career path. Well I have to say, I don't mind programming at all, It's just not for me. I am aiming for a career ether in the Network end of things, you know, network security and managing servers. But there is my backup, everyone should have a backup, computer repairs and troubleshooting.
So really to put it simply, computers yes, science no.
Author:  War_Caymore [ Tue Apr 17, 2007 10:29 am ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
I program at school and very little in my spare time. Right now I'm getting my 12 C Math and 12 C Physics so i can greatly open my options for college. At the moment, i plan to go into Civil or residential construction, at Sault College. If i don't get accepted there, I plan to go to fanshawe in Toronto.

This isn't a for sure, but thats where the money is at, and i'm sure were all for the money Very Happy. I'm also sure we plan to go into our wanted field to make the world a better place, in whatever way we can.
Author:  haskell [ Tue Apr 17, 2007 2:29 pm ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
I'm not in it for the money. I'm into it for the challenge.
Author:  1of42 [ Fri Apr 27, 2007 6:35 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Who Here Isn't Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
I'm not sure. Not that I program a whole lot any more, but I plan to probably major in Operations Research and Financial Engineering or Electrical Engineering, at Princeton University (starting there in the fall, but don't know major yet since you don't have to declare). Probably I'll end up either doing something engineering-related, or just going into finance and doing IBanking or something.
Author:  chrispminis [ Thu May 03, 2007 8:27 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Who Here Isn't Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
haskell @ Wed Apr 11, 2007 11:21 pm wrote:


To get to med school, I will do an honours degree Biochemistry and Microbiology/Cell Biology at Memorial University of Newfoundland.



Oh cool, are you living in Newfoundland or are you doing a distance course? I lived in Newfoundland for four years, and it was one of the funnest four years of my life. Everyone there is so friendly and easy going. My dad works as a dentist there and often takes fish and crab as a substitute for payment, ahahaha.

Personally, I wouldn't mind a career in Computer Science, but to me, it is more of a hobby. As well, it's nice to be computer-savvy, and I like the feeling I get from creating something thoroughly logical that does exactly what I told it to do. THE POWER!!! I'm aiming for a career in Medecine too, and I'll probably be doing my undergrad somewhere in Ontario.
Author:  haskell [ Wed May 09, 2007 2:39 pm ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
Yes, I am a Newfoundland resident. I'm from the Port-Aux-Port Peninsula, which is very far west. Meaning I have to travel directly across the island to go to school. Newfoundland is the 7th largest island in the world, and it is ~ 16 hrs from where I live to St. John's(Memorial University).

It is great to see other people aspiring to medicine as well.
Author:  Cervantes [ Wed May 09, 2007 6:50 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
haskell @ Wed May 09, 2007 2:39 pm wrote:
Yes, I am a Newfoundland resident. I'm from the Port-Aux-Port Peninsula, which is very far west. Meaning I have to travel directly across the island to go to school. Newfoundland is the 7th largest island in the world, and it is ~ 16 hrs from where I live to St. John's(Memorial University).

No way! How fast are you driving? It can't be a bigger distance than from Toronto to Thunder Bay, can it?
Author:  Clayton [ Wed May 09, 2007 7:15 pm ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
From Thunder Bay to Toronto is still a roughly 11-13hr drive. Not too much further Minsc Wink
Author:  md [ Wed May 09, 2007 7:49 pm ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
/me notes that the distance isn't in a strait line.

If you live up on the northern peninsula (I don't know where Port-Aux-Port is) then you'd have to drive south, then east, and then north again.
Author:  chrispminis [ Wed May 09, 2007 8:37 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
haskell @ Wed May 09, 2007 2:39 pm wrote:
Yes, I am a Newfoundland resident. I'm from the Port-Aux-Port Peninsula, which is very far west. Meaning I have to travel directly across the island to go to school. Newfoundland is the 7th largest island in the world, and it is ~ 16 hrs from where I live to St. John's(Memorial University).

It is great to see other people aspiring to medicine as well.


Wow, for some reason, I was really impressed to find another newfie. But then I realized that this IS a canadian site. Good luck in medecine!
Author:  Cervantes [ Wed May 09, 2007 11:01 pm ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
Clayton wrote:
From Thunder Bay to Toronto is still a roughly 11-13hr drive. Not too much further Minsc Wink

md wrote:

/me notes that the distance isn't in a strait line.

Yeah, I was thinking about both these things. It still seems strange though.

I just looked at it on Google maps, and appears to be about twice the distance from Toronto to Thunder Bay as the biggest distance in Newfoundland Island.
Author:  haskell [ Thu May 10, 2007 5:25 am ]
Post subject:  RE:Who Here Isn\'t Going to Pursue a Career in Computer Science?
If you looked at the Trans Canada Highway routes and road from Stephenville(I live an hour further west than Stephenville anyways) to St. John's, you'll see why its so long. It goes around the province.

http://visitnewfoundland.ca/islandmap.html

Shows the route from Stephenville to St. John's. I live an hour west of Stephenville(on that peninsula).

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