Back in 2012! I have written something like the following in an internal group. The target audiences were newly admitted students of Chittagong University in the computer science and engineering department.
This article will be better relatable to Bangladeshi students who are studying in the country. However, this could also help others.
Hello, brothers and sisters! Welcome to a new stage of your life. After putting in great effort and dedication, you’re now standing on a launchpad for an exciting new journey. So welcome aboard!
An imagination:
- Airline: CSECU
- Docking Yard: IT Building
- Flight Number: 3.1415926535 8979323846 2643383279 5028841971 … and on and on (yes, that’s π!)
Don’t worry; this journey will be full of growth, discovery, and yes — fun!
A Warm Word to Begin
As we all know, we have a broken education system and a faulty admission process where students sometimes have less opportunity to choose what they want to study. It’s a big claim. However, this is an observation from someone who studied within this system.
Few of you chose CSE (Computer Science and Engineering) as your dream subject, while others may have ended up here unexpectedly, perhaps with hopes of studying medicine or something else. But I promise you, each of you is incredibly fortunate. You’ve earned a place at one of the country’s largest public universities in a field that’s leading the world in innovation. Embrace this opportunity with pride!
It’s natural to have questions and a bit of uncertainty. Don’t hesitate to ask!
Common Questions You May Have
What is CSE/CS/IT/CSIT?
No need to worry about the differences; all these fields share a common foundation, and you’re at the centre of it.
What’s the Core of CSE?
At its core, computer science and engineering (CSE) relies heavily on mathematics, which serves as the foundation and essential tool for these fields.
Is CSE Hard?
It’s simple: the difficulty depends on your approach. If you engage with enthusiasm and curiosity, you’ll find it both rewarding and enjoyable.
Tips for First-Year Students
This is your time to explore, learn, and adapt to a new environment. Here are some ideas to help you settle in:
- Visit the library often. Read anything that interests you, from love stories to advanced math. Knowledge of all kinds will serve you well.
- Refresh your knowledge of basic geometry, algebra, and calculus. A solid math foundation will give you a big advantage.
About Formal Academic Courses in CSE
Getting a head start on a few key courses will make your first year easier. Focus on:
- Discrete Mathematics
- Structured Programming
- Data Structures
You can find affordable textbooks at the book market in front of Chittagong, Bangladesh Railway Station.
Your First Computer Setup
Got a new computer? Here’s how to set it up as a first-year CSE student:
- Start with a Movie: Watch A Beautiful Mind or any movie that inspires you to think deeply.
- Install Linux: Try Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, or CentOS. My recommendation? Go with Debian for stability. Set up a dual-boot with Windows for flexibility.
- Set Up Coding Tools: Install Code::Blocks (works on both Linux and Windows) and, if on Windows, get Microsoft Visual Studio with Microsoft Visual C++. Choose as you like. Notepad is also ok! yes, it is!
These tools will be your companions throughout this journey. As you progress, you’ll come across new software and resources, so don’t worry if you don’t have everything at first. Just keep going.
Optional Gear
- Laptop: If you don’t already have a laptop, it’s worthwhile to get one if possible. Aim for a budget of 25,000 to 30,000 BDT, assuming it’s affordable. (This was written back in 2012, so I’m not sure how relevant it is for 2024.) If a laptop isn’t feasible, no worries — just use the computers available in the lab.
- Internet Connection: A stable connection is important for research and learning, but remember, it’s for more than social media.
Welcome to this new chapter of your life. Embrace it with curiosity, work diligently, and enjoy the journey. This is just the beginning!
