What are some computer classes I should take in college?

[Demeter]

I'm not super literate when it comes to computers. I don't know how to do Java, Photoshop, blog, any of that sort. I want to do so much when it comes to mass communications on the web, and I want to become successful with it. I'm going to a community college next year. What are some things I should learn to do, classes I should take?

[Annie]

Hi! That's a great question, since computers/the Internet are such a big part of life for college students and professionals. I looked to see if I could find articles about what people recommend that all college students and professionals should know as far as computer skills, and I could not find any articles that include everything, but here are the recommendations I can think of:

-Start with very basic computer classes in college, so that it does not seem overwhelming - you can always build up to more advanced classes.

Some of the most important basic computer-related skills to have/teach yourself/look for in a class (in my opinion) are (if you already know these things, please disregard them) :

-How to type/sometimes called "keyboarding" - this is one of the skills that has helped me the most because you will save a lot of time if you can type fast. This site http://www.typingweb.com/ has free online tutorials in case your college does not offer them.

-How to create an account username and password, such as for an email account, and how to use email.

-How to keep your computer safe and virus-free (making sure you have good anti-virus software installed on your computer, such as Norton Anti-Virus).

-How to save and back up your important files, like school papers - both on your computer, on a USB drive, and possibly also by emailing them to yourself.

-How to use the major social media sites, if you are interested in using them, such as Yahoo Answers (which you of course know how to use!), Facebook, Twitter, and blog sites if you are interested, such as Blogger, Wordpress, or Tumblr.

-How to create, format, print, and save a document in Microsoft Word.

-How to keep yourself safe online (such as not sharing personal information, making sure websites are secure before you buy anything online, etc.

-How to search on the Internet with a search engine like Google or Bing. Then, being able to tell if that website is a reliable source for what you are looking for.

I'm sure there are things I'm forgetting, so I recommend asking the same question of your computer class teachers (what they think important skills are for you to function as a student and future professional). Good luck!