The latest articles on DEV Community by Precious Fanwi (@preciousfanwi24bit). https://dev.to/preciousfanwi24bit https://media2.dev.to/dynamic/image/width=90,height=90,fit=cover,gravity=auto,format=auto/https:%2F%2Fdev-to-uploads.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com%2Fuploads%2Fuser%2Fprofile_image%2F4241405%2F35732a22-d922-4d64-a6e3-1f0045d62e12.png https://dev.to/preciousfanwi24bit en Precious Fanwi Fri, 13 Nov 2026 03:59:21 +0000 https://dev.to/preciousfanwi24bit/my-journey-so-far-as-a-freshman-swe-student-at-yibsisest-4nj8 https://dev.to/preciousfanwi24bit/my-journey-so-far-as-a-freshman-swe-student-at-yibsisest-4nj8 <p>When I arrived at YIBS/ISEST, I believed software engineering was all about writing code. I was wrong. It is about thinking logically, solving problems, and understanding how systems fit together.</p> <p>My first semester opened the door to a whole new world. Linear Algebra showed me how matrices power real life, from calculating a shop's income to finding routes between towns. Operating Systems revealed how a computer juggles its work through long-term, short-term, and medium-term schedulers. Even English, with its lessons on compounding, reminded me that language is a system with rules and patterns of its own.</p> <p>It was not always easy. Some days, a matrix problem or a scheduler comparison left me completely lost. So I asked questions, revised my notes, and tried again. Every time something finally clicked, my confidence grew. Along the way, I learned to study in small steps, practice with examples, and admit when I do not understand.</p> <p>Beyond the classroom, I discovered discipline. Balancing assignments, revision, and personal life demands planning, and I am getting better at managing my time. I have also met classmates who share my dreams, and together we help each other grow.</p> <p>This journey has taught me one lesson: becoming a software engineer is not a race, it is a process. I am still at the beginning, but I am proud of how far I have come, and I am ready for what comes next.</p> beginners computerscience learning softwareengineering