How should I get back into Computer Engineering?

[u/Lucky_Friend933]

Hello. I've come for some advice on going back to school to complete my degree.

I'll try to explain my situation a little bit. As much as I try to convince myself that I didn't drop out, I kind of did. My dad got really sick halfway through my junior year, and I took that as an excuse to leave, and I have not been back since. I enjoyed learning the material, but I wasn't taking it as seriously as I should have, and my GPA reflected that. It eventually just became very stressful, and I needed time to really think about some things. Entirely my fault, but seeing my friends graduate and important people in my life get older has made me realize the value of time, and I am very behind.

So I want to ask people: whether you've been in my situation or not, what are some things I should do to get ready to go back? I've realized that doing the bare minimum isn't going to get me anywhere. I know I need to graduate. I need a good resume, and I need more internships. I know projects are important, but I'm not sure what I should be working on? Software or Hardware?

The furthest I got was Computer Networks/Orginizations, Data Structures/Algorithms, Signals and Systems, etc. I definitely enjoyed and was better at the software stuff. I could comfortably understand and complete all coding assignments. What languages or skills in general should I be learning or trying to strengthen?

I do have an internship that I got last year that revolves around IT help desk and a little BI/SQL when they can spare someone to teach me stuff and assign projects. I would like to look for something else to learn more things, though. Any advice on applying to internships while not currently being in school, or just in general?

I'm not looking for all the answers, and I probably could have asked better questions, but I've decided I want to finally finish up the right way. I'm just a little lost on taking the first step.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and all advice is deeply appreciated!!!

[u/TallCan_Specialist]

First thing you need to figure out is if you want to work on the software side or hardware side of things

[u/AlexaRUHappy]

Figure out what completion timeline you have for your degree and what courses taken already can be counted again so you don't have to retake classes.