CST370: Sorting Smarter, Not Harder

This week’s module focused on algorithm design techniques and graph algorithms. I learned how divide-and-conquer is applied in QuickSort, including how pivot selection affects performance and how the Median-of-Three strategy helps avoid worst-case scenarios. I also studied decrease-and-conquer through binary search and understood why sorting first can improve efficiency. In addition, I learned about Directed Acyclic Graphs (DAGs) and topological sorting. Using Kahn’s algorithm, I practiced calculating in-degrees, identifying source vertices, and detecting cycles. The quizzes and HW4_2 helped reinforce how algorithm steps and data structures like queues affect the final output order.

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Choosing Between MongoDB and MySQL

This week I learned more about how MongoDB and MySQL are both powerful tools for managing data, but they serve different purposes. MySQL is a relational database that organizes data into tables with rows and columns. It uses SQL (Structured Query Language) to define and manage data, which makes it very structured and reliable. MongoDB, on the other hand, is a NoSQL database that stores data as documents in a flexible JSON-like format . It does not require a fixed schema, so it is easier to change or add new data types as needed. Both databases are similar because they can handle large amounts of data, support indexing for faster searches, and allow users to perform queries to get specific information. They are also widely used in modern applications and can be connected to programming languages like Java, Python, or C++. However, the key difference is how they store and organize data. MySQL is best when data has clear relationships, such as in school systems, banking, or employee ...

CST462S - From Learning to Impact: My Service Learning Journey

What went well during my service learning experience was my ability to contribute meaningfully to the ASCENDtials web team. I was able to complete several tasks such as updating website pages, working on LifterLMS courses, and improving user experience through better layouts and navigation. I also communicated effectively with my team, asked questions when needed, and stayed consistent with meeting deadlines. Over time, I became more confident using tools like WordPress, WPForms, and course-building platforms. If I could improve something, it would be my time management and planning. There were moments when tasks felt overwhelming, especially when balancing schoolwork and service hours. I would also improve my confidence in decision-making, particularly when working independently on design or technical issues. Taking more initiative earlier and asking for feedback sooner would have made my work even stronger. The most impactful part of this experience was seeing how my work directly co...

CST438: The Importance of Code Reviews at Google

The most interesting thing I learned from Software Engineering at Google is how important code reviews are for both code quality and team collaboration. I used to think code reviews were mainly for finding bugs, but I learned that they also focus on readability, maintainability, and sharing knowledge across the team . I also found it interesting that Google keeps reviews small and frequent , which makes them more effective and less overwhelming. Another important idea is that different roles in a review (like the code owner and readability approver) each focus on different aspects of the code. Overall, this showed me that writing good code is not just about making it work, but also making sure others can understand and maintain it in the future.

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