Computer Science at Barnard: Adiba's Story

With technology and computer science being such a huge up and coming field in our modern, changing world, Barnard and Columbia is able to equip its students with the knowledge required to succeed in this industry. Barnard’s new computer science department allows students to take full advantage of the resources on a more personal basis. Like many of Barnard’s classes, the computer science classes offered to students are a lot smaller, meaning more personal relationships with the professors who teach them. Barnard’s Summer Research Institute allows students to conduct research with professors without having to compete with graduate students. This is an amazing opportunity for students to gain hands on experience before going off into the real world. 

I came into Barnard with zero computer science experience. I had decided to take a pre-intro course that Columbia offers especially for students who do not have any coding experience. Although I struggled at first, I was strongly encouraged to go to TA hours and office hours. By my second semester, taking my second CS course, I was a lot more comfortable and confident in my abilities in the class and in making connections. These connections help guide me in what classes I should take, how I should be spending my summers and what I can do in future years of my undergrad experiences. 

Majoring in a STEM field may sound intimidating; however, the support system both Barnard and Columbia offer highly encourage students to continue their aspirations in this field. Even without my initial interest in CS, Barnard’s Core Curriculum probably would’ve pushed me to take some type of technology course with its Thinking Technologically and Digitally requirement. I love the fact that Barnard pushes its students out of their comfort zone and allows them to make their mark in fields that they may not be well-represented in.