Humans of CSE June
Sometimes, the path to university isn’t a straight line. Gap years, health breaks, personal responsibilities, or simply time to figure things out - there are countless reasons why some students choose to delay starting uni. While it’s easy to feel like everyone else is racing ahead, taking a different approach can offer more space for growth, reflection and clarity.
In this month’s humans of CSE, we hear from students who took the less conventional route - those who started their computer science degree a little later than most, their stories truly show that there; is no one right way to begin uni - and that sometimes, a detour can take you exactly where you need to be.
Introduce yourself!
Shaun: I'm Shaun. I grew up in Perth, Australia, and graduated from high school in 2022. After that, I took a two-year gap year to serve in the Singapore army. One of the main reasons I went to Singapore was that national service is mandatory, and I figured it was better to get it done. Plus, if you ever want to travel through Singapore again, it's something you kind of need to do.
Also, after finishing HSC and studying for 12 years straight, I felt it was a good time to try something different—to step away from academics for a bit and figure out what I actually like and don’t like.
Anonymous: I am a computer science student at UNSW. I started my degree two terms late. I took those two terms off for mostly mental reasons.
What led you to study Computer Science, and how have your past experiences shaped your learning?
Shaun: My dad actually did computer science, and that played a small part in why I chose it too. Since I was a kid, I’ve always liked computers and technology. It’s nothing too deep, but it felt like a natural fit.
That said, going to the military definitely helped me stay focused. If I’d come straight out of high school, I probably would’ve procrastinated a lot more and not studied as hard. The time away gave me space to seriously think about whether I really wanted to do computer science, and I came back more certain about my choice.
Anonymous: Personally, I didn’t know what I wanted to do until Year 12, when I found computer science interesting and saw it leading the way for future job opportunities. By the time of the HSC and graduation, I knew I wanted to pursue it.
How do you manage the challenges of uni while balancing other responsibilities?
Shaun: For me, most of my responsibilities come from living alone and dealing with the challenges that come with it. In my case, I don’t think my time in the military added too many extra responsibilities—it was more about the experience than ongoing duties.
Anonymous: After Year 12, I started university in Term 1. During Year 12, I really struggled with balancing all aspects of my life, and it was a very stressful year. When I began my degree, I felt like I was back in that same stress with all the deadlines. I had difficulty balancing work, relationships, and social life. So, I decided to take a couple of terms off to focus on finding better balance. After that, I developed a solid system that helped me manage both my university and social life effectively.
How have you found the social environment at UNSW? Have you connected with younger students, or do you feel a gap?
Shaun: When it comes to the social environment, you really get as much out of it as you put in. If you're really quiet, you might not make many friends—but if you put yourself out there, you’ll definitely start making connections.
As for connecting with younger students, it kind of feels like talking to my younger brother. It’s pretty natural most of the time, but there are moments when I don’t quite get the slang or acronyms they use.
Anonymous: Going into Term 3 last year, I still wasn’t on campus much. But in Term 1 this year, my friends encouraged me to apply for societies, and I’m glad I did. It really helped me build the social life I missed during my first year. I went to a camp, and at first, I was worried about being older than everyone else and the potential age and maturity gap. However, even at camp and within the subcommittee, I still managed to bond with others since we were all experiencing similar things. Meeting people in similar situations really gave me confidence in my decision.
What would you say if you could advise someone older thinking of switching to CS?
Shaun: I’d definitely encourage them to go for it. If they’re genuinely interested in computer science, that passion will help them push through the learning curve. Just keep in mind it’s never too late to start something new. CS can be challenging, but if you’re willing to learn and curious, there’s honestly no reason not to give it a shot.
Anonymous: Everyone’s situation is different; not everyone runs the same race, not everyone takes the same pathway, you shouldn’t let that stop you from what you want to do.
Looking back, do you think age has helped or hindered your experience in CS?
Shaun: I think age has been more of an advantage than anything. Taking a gap year was actually a great decision for me because it gave me the space to step back, reflect and really understand what I wanted out of uni and life. After pushing so hard through the HSC, that break helped me come back more focused and motivated. Being a year or two older doesn't matter much in the long run - what matters is what you do with your time. Being a bit older can give you more perspective, confidence and a better sense of direction. Plus, when you’re out meeting people and putting yourself out there, you’re already building your network without even realising it - and that’s one of the most valuable things you can do.
Anonymous: You’re never truly alone. You might feel like you're the only one, but there’s always someone out there with similar experiences. My age hasn't hindered my experience in studying computer science; in fact, it’s helped me. The added maturity has been beneficial, especially in navigating my social life while balancing my studies.
What’s your favourite memory during your compsci degree?
Shaun: Hanging out with friends in a peer mentoring group :)
Anonymous: Joining subcommittees, going on road trips with my subcommittee.