Blogging Heros
Today’s teenagers were born into the digital information age, and technology has always been part of their everyday lives. Many are interested in the mechanics of technology and want to pursue a career in programming or software development.
Do you have a teen passionate about learning everything possible about computers? If you’d like to encourage your child to pursue this interest and support the idea of a tech career, here are four ways to help.
1. Enroll Your Teen in Tech Classes
Your child’s high school may offer computer science or programming classes. These courses are an excellent starting point for someone interested in pursuing a tech career. The school may offer them as electives, or, in some cases, the primary classes may be a requirement.
Some community colleges offer dual-credit courses to high school students. These classes count as both high school and college credits. While teens learn to query metrics with PromQL or study Integrated Development Environments, they can fulfill high school credit requirements while getting a head start on college. It’s an ideal way for teens to explore a computer science career before committing to a particular college or course of study.
2. Provide Tech Tools at Home
If possible, give your teenager the tools to learn skills at home. While that concept may seem daunting and expensive initially, it doesn’t have to be. You don’t have to invest in a lot of fancy equipment. A laptop or computer with strong processing power to compile code will work. Many free apps teach the basics of developing mobile apps and online games.
Some community colleges offer dual-credit courses to high school students. These classes count as both high school and college credits. While teens learn to query metrics with PromQL or study Integrated Development Environments, they can fulfill high school credit requirements while getting a head start on college. It’s an ideal way for teens to explore a computer science career before committing to a particular college or course of study.
3. Research Potential Colleges
Exploring colleges usually begins in a student’s junior year of high school. The task can be overwhelming and confusing for a young person still deciding what to do for a living. Help your child sort through the options available.
If your teen knows that a career in computer science is the first choice, you can narrow down the list of possible schools and focus on the ones with solid programs. If your teen isn’t sure that a tech career is an ultimate choice, look at schools that offer other areas of study so that the degree choices aren’t too limited.
Starting the process of college exploration early gives your family time to gather information, learn about costs, explore scholarship opportunities and make the process a little less daunting.
4. Encourage Your Teen To Keep Grades Up
Every college has its own admission requirements. However, a high GPA opens a lot of doors for your student. Help your child put his or her best foot forward in high school and get the best grades possible. A strong work ethic now pays off later when college courses — and a career — become more demanding.
That said, if your child puts forth the best efforts possible and still doesn’t get a stellar GPA, it’s not the end of the world. Many colleges are now putting less emphasis on standardized testing. Your student’s ambition and desire to learn may carry more weight than you suspect.
Extracurricular activities are another factor colleges review to see how well-rounded a student is. Help your teen develop interests outside of school and participate in other activities for a versatile education.
Many exciting options await if your teen is interested in pursuing computer programming. Tech careers are in high demand and are expected to remain that way for several years. No matter what specialty intrigues your child the most, there is a match for those skills and interests. Help your student get a head start by exploring classes and career options while in high school.
