Week 3 Journal - My CSUMB Journey
Study Strategies Reflection
In my last journal, I identified note-taking as one of my weaknesses, since I often rely too much on memory and my notes are not as organized or useful as they could be. From AcademicTips.org, I learned about the 2–6 Method, which helps separate main ideas from supporting details by dividing the page into columns. This would make it easier to quickly scan notes later instead of rereading everything. I also liked the advice to retype notes after class, turning quick phrases into full sentences while the material is still fresh. This not only organizes the notes better but also reinforces learning by reviewing the material right away. These strategies showed me that note-taking isn’t about writing everything down; it’s about creating a tool that I can actually study from effectively.
Another weakness I recognized is test anxiety and stress management, which often affects my focus and performance even when I prepare well. The strategies on AcademicTips.org gave me several practical ways to handle this challenge. I connected with the idea of using lists to keep track of everything I need to do, since organizing tasks into a schedule can reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed. I also found the relaxation techniques useful, such as deep breathing, visualization, and positive self-talk, which can help me calm down before exams. These approaches reminded me that managing stress isn’t just about studying harder, it’s about taking care of myself, staying organized, and approaching challenges with the right mindset.
Overall, focusing on these two areas gave me practical methods to apply right away, and I feel more confident about improving habits that have been holding me back.
What I Learned About Ethics
This week’s materials helped me see that ethics in technology is not just about following classroom rules, but about shaping how future systems impact people’s lives. The School of Computing & Design Policies and the CS Online Code of Integrity made it clear that honesty is at the heart of learning; keeping my work my own, properly citing assistance (including AI tools), and respecting collaboration boundaries. These policies reminded me that cutting corners in school only harms my own growth and erodes trust in the community.
The ACM Code of Ethics connected those expectations to the professional world. It emphasized values like avoiding harm, being fair, and protecting privacy. Reading it helped me realize that writing secure, fair, and transparent code is an ethical responsibility, not just a technical task. The World Economic Forum talk on “Ethics in the Age of AI” pushed this even further by asking whether new technologies risk undermining human dignity, authenticity, and trust, for example, using AI to recreate actors or to manipulate human relationships. This challenged me to think about the choices behind the systems I might build and how they affect people beyond the screen.
Reflection on "What a Computer Science Major Needs to Know"
Reading Matt Might’s "What a Computer Science Major Needs to Know" showed me how broad and interconnected computer science really is. It’s not enough to focus only on coding, strong communication, collaboration, and adaptability are just as essential. The reading encouraged me to build both depth (mastering core areas like algorithms and systems) and breadth (understanding how computing connects with fields like security, networking, and design).
What stood out most was the reminder that CS is a lifelong learning journey. Technology will keep evolving, and the best way to prepare is to keep learning, stay curious, and practice skills that transfer across domains. This aligns with my own experience so far. I have already seen how fast tools and languages change, and how much more confident I feel when I understand the fundamentals. Going forward, I want to strengthen my foundations while also improving the areas I identified as weaknesses, like note-taking and focus, so I can be ready for the challenges ahead.
Why Integrity Matters
The CSUMB Code of Integrity explained that integrity is more than just avoiding plagiarism; it is about creating a learning environment built on trust and fairness. If students cut corners by copying work, misusing AI, or hiding mistakes, they not only risk sanctions but also lose the chance to truly learn and grow. For me, integrity means holding myself accountable for my own progress, even if that means struggling through hard problems or asking for help in the right way.
Integrity is also important because it protects the value of everyone’s work. When each student contributes honestly, grades and projects reflect real effort and skill, which is fair to the whole community. Looking ahead to my career, honesty and transparency will matter even more. Whether I am handling user data, writing secure code, or collaborating on a team. Practicing integrity now will help me build the habits I will need to succeed not just in school, but in any professional role.
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