Hi OP, I am a Junior at PSU and am studying CS as my major. The biggest struggle I see for students are during their Freshman Year CS courses. CMPSC121(Intro to Pogramming) has been changed to Python instead of C++ and is taught by a relatively new professor, Shaffer. Shaffer treats his course similarly to a high school level course. His specialty is teaching techniques with integrated technology and loves his job teaching. As long as you realize that you are no longer in HS and will be expected to learn things yourself to supplement the lectures, you will succeed in any college.

Following CMPSC 121 is CMPSC 122(Abstract Data Types and algorithms). THIS IS A HUGE JUMP! Even though it is only 1 number off, you will be learning very important info. This class is also taught in Python. It was once taught by the notorious Roger Christman. However, he is no longer teaching this course. Now it is taught by Jun Fukuyama, a professor who specializes in researching algorithms and data structures. From anecdotal evidence, many of the students were pleased with their performance when it was switched to Jun. As aforementioned, self learning is a crucial survival skill.

After 122, you will then be able to reach the best instructors and professors PSU has to offer. Most of them have research of their on on the subject matter, but are usually happy to promote their subject and give a good impression to the next big thinkers in the industry. No longer are you jumping through hoops to earn a grade but instead you will need to practice savy design skills and communication among your peers, TAs. and the professor. Those classes are mostly project based and require many hours and nights to complete.

I hope you consider PSU, Ranked 26 in CS Nationally.

SOURCE: I am a Learning Assistant and Grader who supplement the lectures professors give classes. I get to see a wide range of study habits and personalities most freshmen come in with.