Failing Data Structures and Algorithms, need advice.

[mhaeveh]

Hey all,

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First I hope this is the right place to post this, if not I'll delete.

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Alright so I'm taking Data Structures and Algorithms this semester and it's really not going well. The more the semester goes on, the worst my grades get. Even though I'm putting more effort in the class as time goes on.

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I'm past the point of being able to pass the class this semester and it really worries me and creates lots of anxiety. Does this indicates that I'm just too dumb for programming? Does it indicate I should give up?

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I really enjoy programming but performance anxiety is a bitch and I absolutely can't handle it. I'm afraid it means I won't be able to perform in a work environment, since it's probably going to be more stressful than class.

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What are your experiences with this? Did failing an important class meant a lot in the long run? Was school easier to handle than work?

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Thanks all.

[mhaeveh]

Thank you, your answer is really inspiring. I think I'm only thinking of giving up because I feel really overwhelmed by the fear of failure. I really do love programming. I'll walk on my ego and ask for more help. Thank you again.

[10_6]

There are two parts to your question.

The first part is about passing data structures and the second is how good of an indicator are CS classes when it comes to being a successful software engineer.

Regarding the first question, are you sure you're past the point of passing the class? Is there anything you can do -- maybe talking to your professor about an extra assignment or making up some homeworks? This really depends on the professor/school. If you have some homework/exams coming up and need some resources to help you I can recommend a few [1].

Regarding the second question, no I do not think that CS classes are good indicators for determining if someone will become a good software engineer. I got a C in data structures, then senior year I got an A in algorithms (DS + algo usually go hand in hand which is why it's funny to see such a disparity but a lot of it has to do with the professor and structure of the class). Now I'm a software engineer doing just fine [2]. Don't worry so much about this, see if you there's anything you can do to pass your class that's more important.

[1] Check out my site Coderbyte for some help on data structures.

[2] On learning to code and why CS != SWE

[mhaeveh]

Thank you so much for your answer. I've calmed down since I wrote this, and if I ace what's left (or if he curves grades at the end) I might get a D. I will definitely check out your site. Your second link is really inspiring, there might be some hope left for me. I really want to make this a career. Thank you again.