Java Moving Onward from Introductory Java

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After mastering the basics of Java, it's essential to expand your knowledge in several key areas to prepare for a Computer Science degree. Learning the command line interface, particularly bash on Linux or Unix-based systems like Mac OS X, is crucial. This foundational skill will enhance your understanding of operating systems and software architecture, which are vital for a career in software engineering. Engaging with Linux, even if you already use a Unix-based OS, is beneficial as it provides deeper insights into operating systems and access to a wealth of free software and libraries. Familiarity with C, especially pointers, and assembler is recommended to strengthen programming fundamentals. Additionally, studying formal algorithms and data structures is important, as these core concepts are integral to computer science. Practical experience is emphasized; the more hands-on work you do, the more you'll learn. Resources like online courses and textbooks on algorithms can provide structured learning and exercises to reinforce these concepts.
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After learning the basics of Java, what should I be learning about to help me prepare for the rest of a Comp Sci degree?

I am running Mac OS X, so I was thinking of learning my way around the terminal/bash, or something else Unix-based. My ultimate goal is software engineering, so I know that I will need to have an understanding of operating systems and the deep recesses of the software architecture. Also, I'd like to mess around with Linux (I think I've been saying that since the 90's), but would it be pointless to run Linux when I already have a Unix-based OS?

I understand that any answer will be subjective, but I would appreciate any advice.
 
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Learn C, especially pointers, and maybe some assembler.

Learn a command line interface, bash on linux, unix, MacOs , or even cygwin on widows.

Learn some formal algorithms and logic.

Then depending on what strikes your fancy, databases, web servers, etc...
 
you should learn the unix like or maybe linux terminal , try ubuntu hehe
btw for fast progress in java visit this site :

http://download.oracle.com/javase/6/docs/"
 
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I'm in a similar position, maybe a year or so ahead of you, studying Comp Sci and learning Java, Linux, etc

The MacOS shell is similar to the shell(s) in Linux, but there's big and little differences all over the place. Learning one will help learn the other.

I run Windows but I do all my school work, and some of my playing, in Linux. I use Virtualbox to run Linux Mint 10 (based on Ubuntu) in a virtual machine. This is convenient as I often need to switch between OS's.

Get your hands dirty! :)

The more you do, the more you know. Linux is great fun and very powerful, you'll learn a lot about operating systems if you dig around, and there's a motherload of free software and libraries out there for you to use.

I've just completed my first proper course on Algorithms and Data Structures, core concepts for Computer Science / Software Engineering, and found it fun and very difficult! https://www.amazon.com/dp/0262033844/?tag=pfamazon01-20 which I found to be fantastic and includes many exercises.
 
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C/C++, Java(Core & Advanced) and Assembler
 

Thread 'For those who ask: "What programming language should I learn?"'

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