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DS/CS‑219: Industry Preparation Fundamentals

🎓 • Boston University

Course Overview

Prepares students for internships and early tech careers through resume building, technical communication, GitHub-based project work, and practical onboarding skills. Includes agile practices, code review, and presentation training.

Teaching Impact

Spring 2019 – Present: Taught multiple offerings under the original CS‑200 number before cross-listing and renumbering as DS/CS‑219. Recruited and supported new instructors since Fall 2021. Regular guest lecturer.

Authored and launched the course to address a professional skills gap for undergraduates. One of the earliest Spark-aligned offerings, now foundational to CDS’s experiential learning model.

Learning Objectives

Students develop essential professional skills including:

  1. Professional Communication: Technical writing and presentation skills
  2. Portfolio Development: Building compelling GitHub profiles and project showcases
  3. Resume and Interview Skills: Crafting effective applications and interview preparation
  4. Agile Practices: Understanding modern software development workflows
  5. Code Review: Giving and receiving constructive technical feedback
  6. Industry Onboarding: Navigating workplace culture and expectations

Course Innovation

  • Real-world Focus: Addresses the gap between academic learning and industry expectations
  • Portfolio-centric: Students build substantial GitHub portfolios
  • Peer Learning: Emphasis on code review and collaborative development
  • Industry Mentorship: Guest speakers and mentors from technology companies
  • Practical Skills: Resume workshops, mock interviews, and presentation training

Key Components

  • GitHub Mastery: Advanced Git workflows and professional repository management
  • Technical Communication: Writing effective documentation and presenting technical work
  • Career Strategy: Industry research, networking, and job search strategies
  • Project Work: Building portfolio projects with professional standards
  • Soft Skills: Team collaboration, feedback, and workplace communication

Career Impact

This course directly addresses the transition from academic to professional environments, preparing students for successful internships and early career roles in technology.