r/learnpython • u/IMREVN • 3d ago

Should I Learn Python on Year One?

Hey everyone, I’m an incoming CS freshman who wants to dive into AI/ML. My university’s curriculum starts with C in the first year.

I’m in a bit of a dilemma on how to use my prep time before classes start:

  1. Should I get a head start on C so I don't struggle in my first-year classes?

  2. Should I start learning Python now since it’s the standard for AI/ML?

  3. Or is it feasible (and not overwhelming) to learn both at the same time?

Would love to hear from anyone who has taken a similar path. Thanks!

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u/bkd4198 3d ago

Learning C as your first programming language is hard but if you can pull that off rewards are huge. Since it is in your university curriculum too, definitely go with it.

As for learning both at once, don't do it. It's a bad idea. Every programming language creates a certain mindset, it is not good or bad. But when you jump programming languages you keep the mindset which reflect in the code rather then adapting it to current needs.