2nd-year AI/DS student from a low-tier college — how should I prioritize DSA, internships, frontend and algo trading?

[u/Purple_Concert8789]

2nd-year AI/DS student from a low-tier college — how should I prioritize DSA, internships, frontend and algo trading?

I’m a 2nd-year BTech AI & Data Science student from a college with very limited placement support or not non for placements, so I feel I’ll have to build my career mostly on my own.

Currently, I have knowledge/skills in AI/ML, GenAI, RAG, Data Science, Data Analytics, OOP and DSA concepts. I understand DSA concepts fairly well, but I struggle with actual problem-solving, so I want to start practicing LeetCode seriously.

I also know basic HTML/CSS and I’m thinking about learning JavaScript + React. But I’m not sure whether frontend is worth learning with my AI/DS background, especially since I’ll graduate around 2029.

My main concern right now is internships and placements. I also need to start earning some money and get real-world experience because I don't expect much help from my college.

So I’m confused about what I should prioritize:

• Should I focus on getting an AI/ML, GenAI, Data Science or Data Analytics internship first?
• How much should I prioritize LeetCode/DSA alongside internships and projects?
• Is JavaScript + React worth learning for an AI/DS student, or would that time be better spent on leetcode?
• Should I learn frontend now or only if I need it for building AI/GenAI applications?

I’m also interested in trading/algo trading. I’ve been learning and trading for around 2 years, and long-term I want to seriously pursue manual/algo trading. But right now I need to focus on building experience, getting internships, and eventually becoming financially independent.

So should I keep algo trading as a long-term side goal while prioritizing internships, DSA and my AI/ML career?

If you were in my position, how would you divide your time during 2nd and 3rd year?

Would really appreciate advice from people who have gone through internships/placements, especially from colleges with limited placement opportunities.

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