Welcome to my first post! I recently decided to create this blog for a variety of reasons.
To ensure that I hold myself accountable, I wrote this first post to outline what my goals are for this space.

Relight the Fire

My first computer science experience was a summer camp I attended at Sac State, where we learned the basics of C++ and Unreal Engine to create games.

During that camp, I built a text adventure game alongside a zombie shooter. I remember having an absolute blast and will never forget the excitement I felt watching those projects come to life.

However, when it came time to see other students’ presentations, a creeping feeling entered my mind. Little did I know, it was my first experience with imposter syndrome.

Throughout my journey in computer science, that feeling has reappeared many times. To combat it, I plan on enjoying the process of learning and creating by documenting my progress through this blog.

Rather than worrying about the “quality” of the projects I create, I want to build, engineer, and learn for the love of the field, not just to stack my résumé.

Takeaway

While I stoke my own fire, so should you! Life is too short to compare yourself to other people. Don’t let comparison be the thief of your joy. Enjoy your own journey.

Honesty

Anyone who has met me in person will agree that I’m often very blunt.
So, in true Andrew fashion, I intend to keep this blog straightforward and genuine.

I believe there’s a lot of fluff, misinformation, and mumbo jumbo online that discourages or even gatekeeps people from pursuing their goals in computer science.

Every post here, whether I’m exploring general CS concepts or sharing personal projects, will carry a sense of pragmatism and honesty.

This bluntness isn’t meant to be harsh; it’s meant to provide you, the reader, with a raw look at the journey of a fellow computer scientist.

Takeaway

While bluntness isn’t a superpower, it can help cut through the BS. Finding the right sources to trust is important in any aspect of life, including computer science.

Also, the posts I create may, and likely will, have conceptual and or literal errors in them. Learn to have a healthy dose of skepticism and let that guide your curiosity.

Guidance

Though my career in CS is still in its infancy, I wouldn’t be here without the support of my friends, mentors, and partner.

I hope these posts can offer inspiration, guidance, and nuggets of knowledge that you can take with you on your own journey.

This blog isn’t meant to be a complete guide to computer science, no single resource ever could be, but I hope some of my experiences help you along the way.

Takeaway

Seek help! Don’t be cavalier or shy, use the resources around you as you mosey your way down the river. I hope that I can provide anyone who reads this with nuggets of knowledge, and perhaps even a good laugh.

As a special shoutout, the abstract name of the blog The Shade is a special nod to a special person in my life who inspires me to healthily better myself everyday.