Where to after a year of java? [closed]

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Closed 12 years ago.

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I've just finished a my first year of programming Java at varsity and I have a three month break.

In terms of my development would it be better to:

• Cover Java in more depth to acquire a more intermediate level of ability
• Learn a new programming language (if so which) to a similar level as my current Java ability
• Spend timing learning introductory discrete maths, algorithms and data structures

I'm also open to any other possibilities that would be beneficial but that could be covered in about 3 months

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Write code. Having written actual code is much more valuable than reading books. It seems it's a problem that programmers can't write code - see here. So in order not to be one of those that can't program, write code.

You can undertake a project of your taste. Since it's now popular, you can create some social tool, like TweetDeck or HootSuite. Or you can create an arbitrary useful software. For the cornet-shop or car-repair garage of a relative of yours, whatever.

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You can look at my response to a similar kind of question here

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Kind of a subjective question... but I would suggest learning popular design patterns. Also find a project for yourself, find something that interests you, or a problem you want to solve. Spend your free time solving that problem or creating something interesting. The best way to learn is application in real world settings.

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I would go for the:

• Spend timing learning introductory discrete maths, algorithms and data structures

It will give you a solid base for whatever you want to do next, other languages or as Pangea suggest above (DDD, UML etc.)

Edit: and yeah as another points out: write code, and lots of it.

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I would suggest to put what you have learned into practice. Create a project for yourself.

Alternatively, you can learn about Enterprise Java and play around with it.

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Write code is probably the best answer.

However the timespan you have to work with begs a mention of Seven Languages in Seven Weeks. http://pragprog.com/titles/btlang/seven-languages-in-seven-weeks

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as a student, id faced a similar dilemma a year back.. i opted to learn c++, and its been a good decision. c++ gives you an insight into pointers and you learn about garbage collection (which java normally does automatically), etc.. plus its not hard to learn c++ with a java background.. or you could embark on a project (perhaps learn JSP, servlets, beans for an e-commerce website), which is another excellent option..

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You should start learning Java EE.

JSP, Servelets, Tomcat is a good start. Spring maybe after.

Remember to write code more than you read. Try editing ready examples.