Introduction
When students discuss popular programming languages, C# rarely tops the list. But what if this overlooked language could be one of the keys to your career success?
Students of my generation often prioritize newer, trendier languages and frameworks (like JavaScript, Python, or React) over C#, there is nothing wrong with that but maybe they might miss out on some opportunities in the job market; which don't have as much competition as the other beloved languages and frameworks.
This article's purpose is to shed light on why C# is an underrated yet career-building language that students should consider learning or at least try out once.
C# vs. Other Popular Languages (JavaScript, Python, Java)
First, have a look at this recent survey result on "Most popular programming, scripting, and markup languages" released by Stack Overflow.
After reviewing the survey results, it is clear that C# is not as preferred by 'Learning to Code' students as it is by professional developers. Why is this the case? As we know, there are many similarities between Java and C#, and their rankings among professional developers are nearly the same. However, there is a significant gap in the results for those learning to code.
Let's do what we love the most: compare
- JavaScript: Dominates frontend development; C# excels in backend, desktop, and enterprise apps. C# offers better performance (compiled vs. interpreted) and has static typing for safer code.
- Python: Great for data science, scripting; C# is stronger for large-scale, high-performance apps. C#'s static typing and ASP.NET outperform Python’s frameworks for enterprise use.
- Java: Both are enterprise-level, but C# is more modern and flexible with features like async/await. C#'s .NET framework is more unified compared to Java’s ecosystem.
Strengths of C# and .NET
- Versatile for backend, desktop, gaming (Unity), and cloud (Azure).
- Performance: Compiled, with great memory management.
- Ecosystem: Strong frameworks like ASP.NET, powerful IDE (Visual Studio).
- Enterprise integration: Seamless with Azure and widely used in enterprise solutions.
- Modern features: Async/await, LINQ, and strong typing for reliable, efficient code.
The Misconception: Why Students Overlook C#
- Popularity of Trendy Languages: Students are drawn to widely discussed languages like JavaScript, Python, or technologies like React, primarily because these are often hyped online or seen as "modern" and cutting-edge.
- Outdated Perceptions of C#: Students have misconceptions about C#, such as it being “boring,” “old,” or only relevant to Microsoft-specific environments, which makes them less inclined to explore it.
- Lack of University Emphasis: Many computer science curriculums focus heavily on languages like Java or Python, contributing to students overlooking C#.
The Reality: Why C# is a Career-Building Language
- High Demand in the Job Market:
- C# is in high demand, especially in enterprise software, fintech, and gaming industries.
- C# proficiency is particularly sought after by companies in cities like London and regions with a heavy Microsoft stack presence.
- Used by Large Enterprises:
- Many large organizations use C# to build enterprise-level applications due to its reliability, performance, and compatibility with Microsoft’s ecosystem.
- Examples of industries and companies that rely on C#: Microsoft, Stack Overflow, JPMorgan Chase, Accenture, Intel, Electronic Arts (EA), Uber, and many more.
Closing words
I am not saying that you should ditch all the other programming languages and focus only on C#, but have a basic grasp of all the in-demand languages.
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