Preparation for Landing a Job in Computing Fields

Last modified on 9/27/2024 by Yukong Zhang

Job search websites for computer science college graduates:

  1. LinkedIn: This professional networking platform is not only for connecting with professionals but also for job searching. Many companies post job openings directly on LinkedIn, and you can also use the platform to research companies and network with professionals in your field.
  2. Indeed: Indeed is a widely used job search engine that aggregates job listings from various sources, including company websites and job boards. You can filter jobs based on location, salary, and other criteria.
  3. Glassdoor: Glassdoor not only provides job listings but also offers company reviews, salary information, and interview insights shared by current and former employees. It can help you make informed decisions about potential employers.
  4. Dice: Dice is a job board specifically for technology professionals. It includes a variety of tech-related job listings, including positions for software developers, engineers, and other roles within the IT industry.
  5. Monster: Monster is a general job search website, but it has a specific section for technology jobs. You can filter job listings based on your preferences and skills.
  6. SimplyHired: Similar to Indeed, SimplyHired aggregates job listings from various sources. It offers a straightforward interface and allows you to search for jobs based on your skills, location, and other preferences.
  7. TechCareers: TechCareers is a niche job board that focuses on technology and IT jobs. You can find a variety of positions, from entry-level to experienced roles.
  8. CareerBuilder: CareerBuilder is a general job search platform, but it has a dedicated section for technology jobs. You can search for positions, upload your resume, and set up job alerts.
  9. Stack Overflow Jobs: Stack Overflow, a popular platform for programmers and developers, has a job board where you can find tech-related job listings. You can filter jobs based on your programming languages and technologies of interest.
  10. AngelList: AngelList is a platform for startup jobs. If you're interested in working for a startup, this platform can connect you with opportunities in the tech industry.

The books for interviews for computer science professionals:

  1. "Cracking the Coding Interview" by Gayle Laakmann McDowell
    This book is a classic resource for technical interviews. It covers a wide range of programming topics, data structures, algorithms, and provides solutions and insights into approaching common interview questions.
  2. "Elements of Programming Interviews" by Adnan Aziz, Tsung-Hsien Lee, and Amit Prakash
    This book is known for its comprehensive coverage of programming problems and in-depth explanations of solutions. It covers a variety of topics, including data structures, algorithms, and problem-solving techniques.
  3. "Programming Interviews Exposed" by John Mongan, Eric Giguère, and Noah Kindler
    This book provides practical advice and examples for navigating technical interviews. It covers common coding problems and offers strategies for approaching different types of questions.
  4. "Algorithm Design Manual" by Steven S. Skiena
    While not specifically focused on interviews, this book is a valuable resource for understanding algorithms. It discusses algorithmic problem-solving and provides practical insights into designing efficient algorithms.
  5. CSC3360 Textbook "Introduction to Algorithms" by Thomas H. Cormen, Charles E. Leiserson, Ronald L. Rivest, and Clifford Stein
    Commonly known as "CLRS," this book is widely used as a textbook in computer science courses. It's a comprehensive resource for understanding algorithms and their applications.
  6. "The Pragmatic Programmer: Your Journey to Mastery" by Dave Thomas and Andy Hunt
    While not directly focused on interview preparation, this book offers valuable insights into becoming a more effective and skilled programmer. It covers a wide range of practical tips and techniques.
  7. "Design Patterns: Elements of Reusable Object-Oriented Software" by Erich Gamma, Richard Helm, Ralph Johnson, and John Vlissides
    Understanding design patterns is crucial for interviews, especially for more senior roles. This book introduces essential design patterns and provides guidance on their application.
  8. "Clean Code: A Handbook of Agile Software Craftsmanship" by Robert C. Martin
    This book focuses on writing clean, maintainable code. Interviewers often look for code quality and readability, making this book a valuable resource for coding interviews.
  9. "Dynamic Programming for Coding Interviews: A Bottom-Up approach to problem solving" by Meenakshi and Kamal Rawat
    Dynamic programming is a common topic in technical interviews. This book specifically addresses dynamic programming problems, providing a bottom-up approach to problem-solving.

Sample Resume:

Jane Doe
1208 Wesleyan Street
Fort Worth, TX 76105
jdoe@txwes.edu
(817)-531-1234
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-doe
https://jdoe.github.io

Objective:
Dedicated and detail-oriented computer science graduate seeking a challenging position to apply my skills in software development, problem-solving, and collaborative teamwork.
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Minor in Mathematics
Texas Wesleyan University, Fort Worth, Texas
Expected Graduation Date: May, 2024. GPA: 3.92
Relevant Coursework:
Data Structures, Algorithms, Software Engineering, Database Systems, Operating Systems, Computer Networks, Computer Graphics, Numerical Analysis, and Artificial Intelligence.
Skills:
Programming Languages: C/C++, Java, Python, Matlab
Web Technologies: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, jQuery, PHP, React.js, Django
Database Management: MySQL, SQL Server, MongoDB
Software Development: Agile methodologies, Git
Tools: Eclipse, Visual Studio, Matlab, Jira, Xcode
Operating Systems: Windows, Linux
Problem Solving: Analytical thinking, Debugging, Troubleshooting
Projects:
  • "Online Bookstore Management System"
    • Developed a web-based application using Java and MySQL to manage inventory, process orders, and track sales.
    • Implemented user authentication and authorization functionalities for different user roles.
  • "Campus Event Scheduling System"
    • Created a database-driven web application to allow organizers to create campus events.
    • Designed a user-friendly interface and a database for the application, and implemented on a Linux server.
  • "Collaborative Task Manager"
    • Worked in a team to develop a task management system using React.js and Node.js.
    • Implemented real-time updates using WebSocket for collaborative task editing.
Internship Experience:
  • Software Development Intern | Lockheed Martin, Fort Worth, Texas | Summer, 2023
    • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to analyze requirements and implement software solutions.
    • Conducted unit testing and participated in code reviews to ensure code quality.
    • Assisted in the development and maintenance of software applications.
  • The Research Experience for Undergraduate program (REU) Intern | University of North Texas, Denton, Texas | Summer, 2022
    • Develop a web crawler software application in collaboration with other participants.
    • Conducted unit testing and participated in code reviews to ensure code quality.
    • Assisted in the development and maintenance of software applications.
Awards and Honors:
  • Dean's Honor List each academic year.
  • Outstanding Computer Science Graduating Senior Award recipient in 2024
  • Outstanding Computer Science Student Award recipient in 2022 and 2023
Extracurricular Activities:
  • Vice president of the Dimensions Student Club of Department of Math and Computer Science.
  • Treasurer of the Student Government Association of Texas Wesleyan.
  • Volunteer of the Food Pantry on campus.
Certifications:
  • Java Programmer Certification
  • Database Administrator Level II Certification
  • Amazon AWS Cloud Developer Level III Certification
References:
Available upon request.