Paul Graham's Advice for College Students

In this essay, Paul Graham, a well-known programmer, entrepreneur, and writer, offers guidance to computer science undergraduates on navigating their college years and preparing for their future careers. He emphasizes the importance of developing strong programming skills, engaging in impactful projects, and exploring diverse intellectual fields.

The Importance of Hacking and Programming

Graham argues that the key to becoming a successful hacker lies in two core elements: excelling at programming and acquiring knowledge about intriguing problems. These two aspects are mutually reinforcing, with each driving the other.

• Hard Work and Challenging Problems: To master programming, he advises dedicating significant time and effort to tackling complex problems. Engaging in projects that captivate your interest will naturally lead you to delve into challenging areas.
• Learning from Other Hackers: Surround yourself with talented individuals who share your interests. Observing their work and understanding their approaches can accelerate your own growth.
• Research Assistant Roles: Volunteer for research assistant positions under professors who are engaged in stimulating projects. This can provide valuable learning opportunities and practical experience.

The Role of Math and its Relation to Computer Science

Graham acknowledges that while a strong mathematical foundation is not strictly essential for most hacking endeavors, it serves as an invaluable resource for problem-solving and critical thinking. He encourages students to cultivate a deeper appreciation for math beyond mere formulas and to explore its broader applications.

• Math as a Source of Metaphors: Mathematics provides a rich source of metaphors that can be applied to a wide range of fields, including computer science. The ability to draw parallels between seemingly disparate disciplines can enhance one's understanding and problem-solving skills.
• Overcoming Mathematical Anxiety: Graham recognizes that many individuals have negative experiences with math in their early education. He urges students to seek out effective teachers who can help them discover the beauty and relevance of mathematics.
• Recommended Math Resources: Graham recommends exploring the writings of W.W. Sawyer and Euclid as excellent starting points for gaining a deeper understanding of mathematics.

The Value of a Liberal Education and the Dropout Graph

Graham underscores the value of a well-rounded education, emphasizing the importance of learning "everything about something and something about everything." He believes that exploring diverse subjects, particularly those involving rigorous problem-solving, can broaden one's perspective and enhance their skills.

• Worthwhile Fields of Study: Graham identifies specific academic disciplines as particularly valuable: mathematics, hard sciences, engineering, history, architecture, and the classics.
• The Dropout Graph: He proposes the concept of a "dropout graph" as a way to gauge the intellectual value of different fields. The fields from which students most frequently transfer are likely to be less intellectually demanding than those to which they switch. By observing these patterns, one can get a sense of the relative worth of different academic areas.

The Dissertation and its Importance in Grad School

Graham addresses the topic of graduate school and the dissertation, which he acknowledges can be a challenging and sometimes dreaded aspect of the PhD experience. He cautions students to carefully consider their motivations for pursuing a doctorate and to be prepared for the rigors of research and writing.

• Dissertation as a Rite of Passage: Graham emphasizes that the dissertation is a significant milestone in the academic journey, and while it can be arduous, it serves as a rite of passage for those seeking a PhD. He suggests that students should view it as a necessary hurdle to overcome.
• Grad School as a Time of Learning: Despite the challenges of writing a dissertation, Graham acknowledges that graduate school can be a rewarding and enriching experience, providing opportunities for intellectual growth and personal development.
• The Uncomfortable Nature of Research: Graham observes that research in computer science is not always a clear-cut process, and much of it can involve hacking that is presented in an academic format to meet publication requirements.
• The Value of a PhD: Despite the difficulties, Graham argues that the PhD provides a valuable credential and can boost one's confidence in their abilities.

Getting into a Good Grad School: The Importance of Making an Impression

For those seeking admission to top graduate programs, Graham emphasizes the crucial role of recommendations from professors. He suggests that students should focus on making a positive impression on their instructors by demonstrating genuine interest in their research and academic pursuits.

• Recommendations as Key: Admissions decisions at top-tier PhD programs are heavily influenced by recommendations from professors who know the applicant's work and potential. Standardized tests and grades are generally secondary factors.
• Impressing Professors: To secure strong recommendations, students should strive to excel in their coursework and show a sincere interest in the professor's research area. Faking interest or trying to impress professors superficially is unlikely to be successful.
• Importance of Passion: Graham stresses the importance of finding subjects that truly spark your passion. Authentic interest is far more likely to lead to success in both academia and hacking, as it provides the motivation and drive to overcome challenges and achieve excellence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Graham's essay offers insightful guidance for college students navigating the world of computer science. He emphasizes the importance of honing programming skills, pursuing challenging projects, and broadening one's intellectual horizons. While he acknowledges the difficulties of the dissertation process, he also underscores the valuable experience and opportunities that graduate school can provide. Ultimately, he argues that the key to success lies in finding what you love and pursuing it with passion and dedication.