Khiem's CS Journey

Week 4 Learning Journal Part One: Educational Goals After this week’s readings on goal setting, I realize that education isn’t just about passing classes - it’s about creating a clear mission for my learning . Using the guidance from MindTools and LiveCareer, I’m defining my educational goal not just as “finish the degree,” but: My educational goal is to graduate with a deep, usable understanding of core computer science fundamentals (data structures, algorithms, systems design) and to build the discipline of continuous learning so I can stay relevant beyond the classroom. This means setting milestones (e.g., mastering algorithms by next semester completing a cloud-certification by end of year) so I can track growth objectively. Part Two: Career Goals Using the career goal frameworks from the Salary.com article and the mission-statement ideas from LiveCareer, I can see where I want to be in the next 3–5 years: My career goal is to move into a senior technical role such as Cloud Arc...

 Week 3 1/27/2026   What did I learn this week..? Well, I've learned that this curriculum has quite a bit of prep-work for the professional workforce. Being employed for over 10 years in tech made this quite apparent. There is definitely some crossover. Our team is bonding pretty well. Seperation of duties are tasked properly.

1/18/2026 - Week 2  After reading Effective Study Skills by Dr. Bob Kizlik , I reflected on my current study habits and identified areas where I am already strong, as well as areas that need improvement. The article reinforced that effective studying is not about effort alone, but about using time intentionally and practicing proven techniques consistently. Top 3 Study Skills I Am Good At Scheduling and Time Awareness I already recognize the value of time and usually plan my study sessions around work, classes, and personal responsibilities. I do not rely heavily on last-minute cramming and prefer to study when I am alert and focused, which aligns well with the article’s emphasis on scheduling and studying at optimal times. Active Listening and Note Review During lectures or instructional content, I focus on understanding main ideas rather than writing everything verbatim. I also tend to revisit and revise my notes afterward, which supports long-term understanding and mat...

Week 1 of CS Undergrad     1) Well, it's been quite a while since I've been in school. The change of pace in an academic setting is quite different from work. It may take a while for me to have a "tonal" balance - if you will.     2) I've learned quite a bit this week. I think the biggest culture shock that hit me was students being allowed to use ChatGPT or any form of AI to enhance their learning. This was quite voodoo a few years ago, but I'm really glad academic institutions picked this up!