Understanding Algorithms with Programming in C++ (OCS10) Peer Tutor Eli Gendreau-Distler

In this article, the Board of SASS interviews Programming in C++ peer tutor Eli Gendreau-Distler. We hope that this article will help current and future Programming in C++ students in their academic journey!

What did you enjoy about Programming in C++ (OCS10)?

While I really enjoyed learning to write code in C++, the element of this course that I appreciated the most was beginning to understand how a computer “thinks” and how to translate instructions for a human into instructions that the computer can understand.

What challenged you the most in Programming in C++ (OCS10)? How did you overcome those challenges?

One challenge I experienced in Programming in C++, as with other computer science courses, is that sometimes I wrote a piece of code, realized it did not work, and did not have any idea where the problem was. The best solution for me was to test different pieces of the code separately to identify which section of code was causing the problem.

What tips do you have that could be useful to students taking Programming in C++ (OCS10)?

One strategy that helped me improve my code was to plan out the structure before beginning to write, much like in an English or Core class. This allowed me to approach programming assignments in a more systematic manner and helped me gain a better understanding of exactly what the function of each piece of code was.

What did the typical week in Programming in C++ (OCS10) look like?

On average, a week in Programming in C++ involves a couple of programming assignments, a reading, and sometimes a quiz and/or lecture in addition to the discussion sections.

What was your favorite topic covered in Programming in C++ (OCS10)?

I enjoyed all the topics in Programming in C++, but if I had to pick a favorite I would go with the searching and sorting algorithms. I found it really interesting to compare different algorithms and consider which would work most efficiently for different data sets.

Do you have any resources (i.e. study tips, useful websites) to share with students who want to take the course?

I recommend using some of the extra exercises in the textbook to study for exams (and practice writing out the code by hand). I often think that memorizing as much information from the readings as possible will prepare me best for exams, but I have found that practicing is more useful for me and also helps me feel more comfortable with the exam format.

Eli Gendreau-Distler is a peer tutor for Programming in C++ and can be found on the Writing and Tutoring Center.

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