More and more people and businesses are adopting Python as their primary or secondary programming language. Python is an invaluable language to master whether you are just starting out in the programming world or are an established veteran. In this article, we’ll go through a detailed plan for learning Python programming, complete with weekly checkpoints to make sure you’re on the right track. Secondly, we will discuss the options to leverage the learning toward building a solid profile for college admissions.
How to Learn Python from Scratch and Leverage the Learning for College Admissions
Co-authored by Tanmoy Ray
Step-by-Step Guide on Learning Python from Scratch as a High School Student
Python Fundamentals (Week 1)
Focus on the fundamentals throughout the first week of Python study. Learn the language’s syntax and the basics of programming, like data types, variables, and control structures, as a starting point. The in-built features and libraries of Python are another area of study. Test out what you’ve learned by applying it to some easy tasks.
Programming Objects (Week 2) [OOP]
Python object-oriented programming training should begin in the second week. This is a cornerstone of Python, and it is essential for creating code with any degree of sophistication. Master the concepts of classes, objects, inheritance, and polymorphism. Get some practice with OOP by constructing a basic application.
We are now in Week 3, which focuses on Data Structures
Learn Python data structures like lists, tuples, dictionaries, and sets during the third week. These Python data structures are crucial for tackling practical issues. Figure out how to work with these structures and develop algorithms that make use of them.
Modules and File Management (Week 4)
In the fourth week, you should study Python modules and file management. Master Python’s file reading and writing capabilities, as well as module import and use. Your code will be more maintainable and efficient as a result of this.
Web Development using Django (Week 5)
Web programming with Python’s popular web framework, Django, may be started in the fifth week. Explore the fundamentals of Django, from project setup to developing models, views, and templates. Create a basic web app with Django and see how it goes.
Week 6: Data Science Using Python
Beginning in Week 6, you will be able to use Python to explore the world of data science. Libraries like Pandas and Numpy can be used for data manipulation. On the other hand, Matplotlib can be used for data visualization, and Scikit-learn may be used for machine learning.
Week 7: Complex Subjects
Advanced concepts like multithreading, multiprocessing, and network programming are introduced in the seventh week. Incorporating these ideas into your Python code will make your projects more effective and scalable.
How to Assess the Learning: Check-Ins Every Week
Checking your progress once a week can help you stay on track with your studies. This will allow you to zero in on the specific areas that require work. Some checkpoints you may use each week are:
- In the first week, you are to create a program that will accept user input and output it to the console.
- In Week 2, you will use OOP ideas to create basic software.
- The third week’s assignment is to create a program that makes use of data structures to address a specific issue.
- Week 4’s assignment: Code a program to read and write to a file.
- Objective for Week 5: Construct a Basic Web App in Django.
- Week 6: Work with a dataset using Pandas and Matplotlib for visualization.
- Program development using multithreading or network programming is due during Week 7.
Advice on Python Self-Learning for High School Students
The adventure of learning Python programming is a fascinating one, but it does involve time and effort. You can learn Python development fundamentals in just seven weeks if you stick to the plan laid forth above and regularly evaluate your progress.
Do your best to put what you’ve learned into practice, and don’t be afraid to make some mistakes along the way. I hope you find success in your Python studies.
How to Leverage the Python Learning for College Admissions
Just learning Python programming is not going to impress college admission officers (or an employer). You have to demonstrate your learning by building something.
So, how to extrapolate your learning?
Option 1: Do a Project by Building Something
The journey of building something is truly what will teach you the most. You can only learn so much from reading Real Python articles and courses. Most of your learning will come from using Python to build something. The problems you will solve will teach you a lot.
Here are 5 Exciting Python Project Ideas for High School Students.
Option 2: Opt for an Internship
We know it’s tough to find an internship while in high school. But, it’s not impossible at all.
Watch this video on How to Find Internships as High School Students in India:
You can also apply for the Data Science Intern role at Stoodnt. Here are the details:
Responsibilities
- Work with the data science team to collect, clean, and analyze data using tools such as Python/R.
- Develop machine learning models to solve real-world business problems.
- Create visualizations and reports to communicate data insights to stakeholders.
- Assist with data mining, statistical analysis, and predictive modeling.
- Participate in team meetings and contribute to brainstorming sessions.
Desired Skills
- Currently enrolled in high school (Grades 9 – 12) with computer science as a subject.
- Proficiency in at least one programming language, such as Python or R.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
Stipend: Rs. 4,000 (can earn up to Rs. 8,000 depending on performance) [10 – 15 hours per week commitment]
Option 3: Sign up for a Summer Program
You can sign up for online courses or summer school programs. Here are two options:
Option 4: Do a Research Project and Aim for a Publication
Research is basically a rigorous investigation into an academic question. Here are the main two benefits:
- Allows you to explore an area of academic interest that you’re particularly excited about and go far deeper than you could in a class
- Helps to build a project that reflects your interests and abilities to the outside world
You can apply for the Veritas AI Fellowship Program. Here are the details:
The Veritas AI Fellowship Program runs for a total of 12-15 weeks and focuses on building an individualized AI project. As part of this program, you will work with an AI researcher or practitioner on building an independent college-level AI project under 1:1 mentorship.
- AI Fellowship Program Details:
- 15, 1-1 sessions with an AI practitioner or researcher
- Support submitting your AI project to publications
- Possibility to combine this program with the AI scholars program if you are new to AI
- Cost: $4200 (Financial Aid Available)
- Prerequisites: Basic understanding of Python or completion of AI Scholars
- Eligibility: Open to all students in Grades 8-12
- Application Deadline:
- Priority admission: April 16, 2023
- Regular admission: May 14, 2023
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