By Maryam Marei, 2nd Year Computer Science BSc
The Pursuit
I never had the opportunity to study computer science in school. Instead, I was drawn to mathematics and physics, particularly astrophysics. However, it never felt like the perfect fit—until I realised how deeply astrophysics relies on programming. That was a turning point for me. That moment ignited my curiosity about computer science and the endless possibilities it offers.
Furthermore, what made computer science even more compelling was its versatility. It is a field that intersects with nearly every industry—healthcare, finance, entertainment, space and beyond. In a world filled with opportunities, computer science allows you to explore diverse paths—especially if you are uncertain about what you want to do—and contribute to groundbreaking advancements.
From 0s and 1s to the Unthinkable
At its core, a computer operates on 0s and 1s. From this simple foundation of 0s and 1s, humans have built groundbreaking innovations—from the software that sent astronauts to the moon, to the artificial intelligence powering self-driving cars, and advancements in medicine. The idea that it all stems from software, is both astonishing and inspiring. It is a tool with the potential to drive real change and as someone eager to make an impact on the world, it felt perfect.
Bridging Theory and Practice
One of the most remarkable aspects of programming is its ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice—to transform ideas into reality. You can envision something, build it, and watch it come to life. However, the process is far from simple. It demands a profound understanding of algorithms, databases, mathematics, and system design—each element contributing to the overall complexity, which is what makes it so compelling. The complexity, the intricacies, the attention to detail—each element comes together to create something meaningful. It requires problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity, making every step of the process both intellectually engaging and rewarding.
Video Games
Growing up with video games, I have witnessed their remarkable evolution. Modern games are not only visually stunning, but also feature complex narratives, with branching choices that create vast, immersive experiences. The sheer effort behind these creations is astounding—millions of lines of code and intricate decision trees that shape each player’s journey. The depth and complexity of game development have always fascinated me, playing a role in inspiring my pursuit of computer science.
The Future
Before I began university, I was walking through Waterloo when I passed by the IBM office and saw a quantum computing machine on display. Although I had heard of quantum computing before, I had never explored the topic in depth, prompting me to research and learn more about it. I eventually learned the idea of quantum computing is revolutionary, promising breakthroughs that could redefine computer science. It was not just a remarkable piece of technology, but also a physical manifestation of quantum physics in action.
This discovery captivated me because it represented a paradigm shift. Seeing that machine made me realise computer science’s potential. The possibility of contributing to such transformative change is exhilarating and the thought of advancing technology that could revolutionise medicine, or solve problems we have yet to understand is inspiring. Being at the forefront of it all would be incredible.
The Beauty of it All
At its heart, computer science is not just about writing code—it is about solving real-world problems, developing efficient systems and making a tangible impact on society. Whether advancing healthcare, improving communication, or enhancing daily life, the potential applications are limitless. Although it may seem daunting and often involves late nights spent debugging and solving problems, the sense of accomplishment that comes with solving a problem, or bringing an idea to life, is unparalleled. It is both a technical and creative achievement.
The beauty of computer science lies in its constant evolution, the intellectual challenge it presents and the opportunity it provides to make a meaningful difference. That is why I chose to study computer science.
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