If you’re a middle school student with an interest in computer science and a passion for programming, then this is the best time to get started. In today's rapidly evolving tech-driven world, programming has become a core skill that you’re expected to be familiar with. If you really want to make a career of it, or even pursue it as a high level hobby, there’s a lot to learn and catch up on and the sooner you get started, the better it is for you. 

In this blog we provide you a comprehensive list of suggestions on how to approach computer programming as a middle school student in an immersive and sustainable way that can help build both your interest as well as your knowledge.

1. Join an online programming class

Joining a live, hands-on class like Veritas AI’s Introduction to Python for middle school students, is a great way to get started. Through the course, you learn the fundamentals of Python, can interact with other students, and learn from PhD mentors from top universities. You get a chance to work on real-life projects and datasets in small groups and engage with lectures, coding notebooks, and more!

Another option is exploring websites like Codecademy and Khan Academy which offer courses in various programming languages. These platforms are beginner-friendly and provide hands-on projects, making learning both fun and practical. You can start with HTML for web development or Python for general programming. You can even start off initially with free courses, then work your way up to more advanced paid courses. 

2. Join a Discord channel

To keep your enthusiasm up, build a network of similarly interested peers. Joining a Discord channel or community is a great way to work through challenges and problems you may face.Discord communities like Programmer's Hangout are great for getting support, sharing projects, and learning from peers. It's a friendly space to ask questions and find mentors who can guide you in your coding journey.

3. Participate in coding competitions

You don’t need to restrict yourself to school challenges, national competitions or the like. Platforms like Codeforces and HackerRank host coding competitions that are both challenging and fun. These sites often have beginner-friendly challenges, helping you improve your coding skills through real problems. They also help you learn to think on your feet and force you to solidify your fundamentals.

4. Attend workshops and tech events

Workshops and events are where you can expose yourself to the larger world of programming, get up to speed on how the industry is evolving, and find both people and opportunities to help you on your own journey. They are a great way to learn in a structured environment while meeting others who share your interests. Attending workshops and tech events is a great way to learn from those in the field and receive guidance from their experiences. 

5. Join (or start!) a coding club at school

Chances are that your school already has a programming club or group, but just in case it doesn’t, take the initiative and start one. Collaborating with peers can make learning coding more enjoyable and effective. You can work on group projects, share resources, and learn collectively. Involve your teachers as well, who will be able to further guide and mentor you and give direction to your learning.

6. Experiment with hardware programming

In the age of the Internet of Things, coding is no longer limited to just the computer or the internet. You should take some time to get some hands-on experience with platforms like Arduino and Raspberry Pi. These tools are perfect for diving into robotics and electronics, combining coding with tangible projects. Aside from expanding your repertoire of skills, you will also get practice for various robotics challenges and competitions that can open even more doors for you.

7. Follow programming blogs, websites, and newsletters

Explore Stack Overflow for community-driven solutions and Medium for insightful programming articles. These platforms offer a wealth of information from experienced programmers and are great for learning and solving specific coding issues. While Stack Overflow is the better technical resource, Medium has longform content that can provide great insights into the industry in general.

Subscribing to newsletters like JavaScript Weekly or Python Weekly are fantastic for staying updated with the latest in programming. They offer tips, tutorials, and news that can help broaden your understanding of different programming aspects.

8. Install some apps to help you along

Apps like Scratch (an MIT initiative) or Tynker (from BYJU’s) make learning to code interactive and fun through games and stories. They are excellent for understanding the basics of programming in a visually engaging and intuitive way.

9. Sign up on online forums

Join forums like Reddit’s r/learnprogramming for a diverse range of perspectives and advice. These forums are excellent for asking questions, sharing your progress, and receiving constructive feedback.

10. Explore YouTube

YouTube channels like Academind, CS Dojo, freeCodeCamp, and The Coding Train offer engaging tutorials on programming topics as diverse as Python, Java, ethical hacking, programming on Linux, and even insights on tech hiring and interviews. Video tutorials can be especially helpful if you prefer learning visually.

11. Work on personal projects

A great way to gain hands-on experience with coding is to work on individual projects. One option is to work on a mentored project through programs such as Veritas AI’s Junior Fellowship. Through this 1-1 program, you receive guidance from a PhD mentor and create a unique, individual project in an area of your interest at the intersection of AI, ML, or data science. 

Starting your programming journey now opens up a lot of possibilities for where you want to specialize down the line. The more you explore and learn, the better prepared you will be when in a coding challenge or applying for college or readying yourself for an interview. Remember, every expert coder started just where you are. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes or ask questions. 

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