Meet the Major: Computer Science and Psychology

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Why did you decide to come to UMass Amherst?  

Maahi: UMass Amherst ticked a lot of my boxes when it came to picking my college. It is obviously a very big school so I am always hearing about new opportunities and meeting new people. I want to work in the tech industry in the future so meeting people and making connections is super important, and the clubs I am able to join are so beneficial in that regard. Even more importantly, the computer science program is highly ranked in the country so that was a huge factor in my decision as well. The resources and staff are very helpful and knowledgeable in the field, and it truly shows through the lectures and external help! Overall, I knew that UMass Amherst would allow me to grow as a person, learn about the subject I love, and explore the industry and avenues. 

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Why did you choose your major?

Maahi: I am currently pursuing a double major in computer science and psychology. I have always been interested in the tech industry because both my parents are in the field as well. I knew I wanted to take computer science but I also really liked psychology and wanted to balance a very technical subject like computer science with something in arts or humanities. I looked into double majors and realized that the course load between computer science and psychology overlapped a bit, and the requirements were doable. I also talked to a faculty advisor and a peer advisor prior to adding my secondary major, and they were very helpful in planning out what the course load would look like for the four years. After a bunch of meetings with advisors and professors, I went ahead with the process of adding a double major and I am very happy with my decision. I am also looking into potentially doing a dual degree depending on how many credits I am able to complete! 

What are your classes like? Do you have any favorites?

Maahi: My semesters so far have consisted of a mix of one or two core computer science classes, one core psychology class, one college level class in CICS or CNS, and one general education class. Most of my classes have been large so far, but as I am getting closer to major level requirements, the class size is shrinking steadily. Also, most of my classes are science-based so there have been a lot of labs or discussion classes that are very helpful in getting extra help on the coursework. My favorite class isn’t a computer science or psychology class actually. It is the college writing class that all students have to take their freshman year. I completely credit my professor for why this class is my favorite because she made an English class so interactive, eye-opening, and informative. The topic of the class was social justice and change, and all the lessons were very reflective and informative. The class was only 15 people so it was very easy to work with my peers and I made some really good friends from that class! Next semester, I am planning on taking CS391L: Computer Crime Law which sounds very interesting to me as well. I am looking forward to taking this course and exploring a different side of the tech industry. 

What are the professors like?

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Maahi: So far, I can confidently say all my professors have been very very helpful and passionate about the subject material. When everything was shifted to virtual learning, it was hard to cope with some of the course work because my subjects rely on very hands-on learning. However, the professors in both CS and Psychology, were so resourceful and accommodating. I was in a different time zone, so attending evening TA sessions or office hours was very inconvenient and they understood that. A few of my CS professors would even be up as early as 7 a.m. just to host alternate office hours or be online to answer any questions. 

How do you plan to use your degree? How have you prepared for this path?

Maahi: Currently, I am planning on graduating from UMass Amherst in the spring of 2023 and working for a few years after. I am looking into jobs related to software development and more specifically front-end development. After working for a few years, I want to pursue an MBA so I can expand my skillset and then eventually open my own software company of some sort. I have done a few things to prepare myself for being able to make this idea of my future into a reality. Firstly, I am always learning skills that will help me land a job after college such as learning certain coding languages and getting involved in research. I have also learned the importance of networking so I am constantly involved in the UMass Amherst Alumni Association events and UMass Amherst college and career fairs. 

Furthermore, internships are a big part of being able to convert the knowledge you learn in class into tangible experiences for your resume. The career office in CICS has been my best friend when it comes to learning about opportunities, maintaining my resume, and writing impactful applications. 

Any tips for incoming students within the major?

Maahi: If you are coming in as a computer science major, I would recommend definitely looking into the language you will be working in prior to the semester. For example, last semester I took CS220, which is a Javascript-based course. Prior to this class, I didn’t know this language so for a few weeks in the summer, I just looked over the language and got an idea of what it is and what it can accomplish. This actually saved me so much stress and time during the semester. Sometimes, the professor will tell you prior to the class starting that you need some experience in the language so definitely listen to this advice and study a bit beforehand. 

If you are an incoming psychology major, I have seen a common pattern in all the classes. This might be trivial to some, but take very very good notes in class. The professors often give examples and case studies in class that are on the exams and if you didn’t listen in class, you won’t know the answers. So definitely pay attention to the class lectures. It will be a lifesaver when you are studying for the exams. 

And lastly, if you are a double major, I would recommend meeting with your advisor before every semester to make sure you are planning your classes in the most efficient way possible. Sometimes, it is overwhelming having to cover all the bases, so make sure you meet with the advisors from both majors and peer advisors too if you can! They have first hand experience in the courses so they are so knowledgeable on the professors, courseload, and grade breakdowns!