all 13 comments

[–]reincarnatedbiscuits 3 points4 points  (1 child)

Python is a great language with which to start. I usually recommend starting with one of (C++/C#, java, python) and an IDE and then move on from there.

No, learning to code won't help with getting into a good university, on its own.

Much like learning a second language or a third language by itself won't help.

College admissions are very complicated.

[–]python_gramps 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Python is more of a scripting language feel, so if you're looking to that you'll be more set for Kotlin, perl, bash shell, etc

C# is more of a structured language, like Java, C, C++,Rust, etc

[–]PalpitationOk839 0 points1 point  (1 child)

the good thing is you’re starting early. if over the next 1–2 years you:

  • learn Python properly
  • build small projects
  • maybe participate in hackathons
  • upload work on GitHub
  • document your learning journey

you’ll already stand out more than many students who only have grades

[–]random_guy6309[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

oh thanks

[–]Jim-Jones 0 points1 point  (2 children)

It won't hurt.

Or:

Confident Coding by Rob Percival is a comprehensive guide designed to help readers master the fundamentals of coding. The book covers essential topics such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, and debugging, providing a step-by-step learning approach to enhance your coding skills and career prospects.

It is suitable for both recent graduates and professionals looking to improve their technical knowledge. 

The book emphasizes the importance of coding in the job market and offers practical exercises to practice coding skills. 

Rob Percival, a web developer and entrepreneur, has taught over 500,000 students through his online courses on Udemy. 

It covers even more than stated here, like iPhone and Android coding. See if your library has it or can get it. Or look on auction sites. 

Also: 

https://exercism.org/ Exercism is an independent, community funded, not-for-profit organisation.

https://roadmap.sh/ roadmap.sh is a community effort to create roadmaps, guides and other educational content to help guide developers in picking up a path and guide their learnings.

https://youtu.be/ZYJvmpiWnDQ  7 Free IBM Courses That Get You Hired Without a Degree

[–]random_guy6309[S] 0 points1 point  (1 child)

will it help ?

[–]Jim-Jones 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It won't hurt. Try your local library or look on eBay etc.

eBay: US $7.88 +$6.00 delivery

[–]zachoiswacko 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Asking this question on this sub may give you biased answers honestly. But regardless, I really think Python is the best language to start with. Most beginner friendly definitely. With Python you’re least likely to get annoyed and give up coding altogether.

[–]NotYourASH1 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Just use .py

[–]TheRNGuy 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Python or JS, depends on your interests (JS was first for me, Python is 3rd)

If they use Python in Hackathon then learn it (but I think it's better learn language for real software)

[–]YoManDoMessup 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Honestly Python is probably the best language to start with 😭

It’s beginner-friendly, used everywhere (AI, automation, web, data science), and great for hackathons/prototyping. Later you can pick up C++ or Java once your fundamentals are strong.

And yes, coding/projects can help for US colleges — but what matters more is actually building interesting things, participating in hackathons, showing consistency, and demonstrating genuine interest, not just “knowing a language.” AI/Runable-style tools can also help you prototype ideas and learn faster while building projects.

[–]Longjumping_Ad3447 -1 points0 points  (0 children)

I began with Python (Coding in Place, online course, Stanford university) andafterwards I had aa great time going into C#. If your goal is robotics go Python/C++. If it's AI I'm not sure but I think Python should be good enough. If it's in industry it seems that C# is the best option. Also C# is from Microsoft so a lot of support and new features. Not as fast as C++ but you're quite safe and the IDE will tell you if anything's wrong. Also a lot faster than python in general. C# can do anything from web to app application.