[Jun8]

Whenever anyone young asks me this general question I point them first to pg's awesome essay: http://www.paulgraham.com/hs.html. This is targeted for HS students but I think also applies to freshmen and sophomores. To boil it to one sentence: Make decisions as to maximize your options.

I would add that your personal network is one of the most valuable asset you'll have so start on your networking skills. To do this well, as they say, be interested, not just interesting. Ask people what are the most important open research problems in their fields, people love to talk about this stuff.

Finally, if possible, avoid companies that "care about GPA above a certain level".

[devericx]

Just skimmed the essay and wow, what amazing advice. I totally agree with the whole "figure out what your options are and just pursue what interests you" ordeal, rather than try to figure out exactly what you want to do in 20 years. Thanks so much!