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Why Python is the Programming Language to Learn

Python is arguably today’s most popular and fastest-growing programming language. Boasting a 27% year over year growth rate, Python has quickly become the preferred language of programmers, serving trending applications such as machine learning and data science.

Why is Python so high in demand compared to other languages? Unlike C++ or Java, there’s less complex syntax to navigate or compiling issues to resolve. Python uses English keywords, and as a result is simple, readable, and maintainable. It’s easily integrated with other programming languages, and supports functional and structure programming, as well as Object Oriented Programing (OOP). Not to mention there is a thriving ecosystem: open source libraries, frameworks and expert community make any problem a temporary one.

Also working in Python’s favor is the versatility of the language. Sometimes dubbed the “Swiss-Army Knife” of programming, Python isn’t tied to just one discipline, but can support many, including data analysis, web applications, gaming and automation. Many of today’s major tech platforms are powered by Python: Instagram, YouTube, Dropbox, Spotify, Reddit, Pinterest and Instacart, to name a few. Netflix’s ability to predict what content a user is interested in is based on Python. 21% of Facebook’s infrastructure is Python. Some of the very earliest Google engineers are quoted as having the motto, “Python where we can, C++ where we must.” 

Given today’s exponentially increasing trend toward smart devices, connectivity and artificial intelligence, the need for Python experts is also exploding. In 2018, LinkedIn reported a shortage of more than 150,000 professionals in the areas of data science, software development and machine learning. Today, demand continues to outweigh the supply, resulting in Python developers becoming one of the highest paid technology jobs available. Additionally, for entrepreneurs and others seeking to learn programming, Python remains the optimal skill to obtain. With a simple, easy-to-understand structure and broad applications, it is considered the best and most versatile beginner language.

Becoming proficient in Python is enabling many professionals to further develop their careers — or launch them. Recognized as one of the most essential languages to master, and with the added benefit of compatibility with existing languages, Python is the skill every programmer or analyst shouldn’t hesitate to add to their resume. 

If you’re interested in mastering Python, check out eCornell’s Python Programming certificate program, which teaches the core principles of Python and how to apply them.

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This holiday season, give the gift that keeps on giving

Looking for a great gift idea? Consider giving a gift that will stand the test of time.

The Wine Lover
This holiday season, focus on something everyone can agree on—wine. If you love wine and want to take your appreciation to the next level, you’ll benefit from this hands-on course offered by Cornell University. Take a journey through the winemaking process from grape to glass, learning how to taste and evaluate wine with guidance from world-renowned Cornell hospitality experts. Learn more

 

The Beer Enthusiast
With so many beer options out there, how will you decide? It’s a question restaurants and enthusiasts alike are asking. Discover the answer with the Beer Appreciation certificate program at Cornell! This program provides an end-to-end understanding of beer production, tasting, and selection for making educated decisions on your choice beverage. From ingredients and process to sensory analysis, you will expand your knowledge and appreciation of beers.

 

The Entrepreneur
Have a great idea? Master the skills needed to get it off the ground with Cornell’s new Entrepreneurship certificate program. Designed for both entrepreneurs and new investors, this program guides you from assessing your concept’s viability, to navigating the pitch process, securing the right kind of funding and maintaining key relationships. Don’t wait; turn your side hustle into your main gig!

 

The Techie
Python is one of today’s fastest-growing and in-demand programming languages. The Software Development in Python certificate program follows a rigorous, real-world approach to developing proficiency in Python programming and software development. Don’t hesitate to add this skill to your resume!

 

The Health Guru
Striving to be the healthiest version of yourself? Earn a Nutrition and Healthy Living certificate to get an in-depth, contemporary scientific look at nutrition, exercise, weight loss and disease prevention. You’ll come away with a holistic view of how biochemical pathways work together with physiological systems and behavior to determine nutritional health and overall wellness.

 

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Cornell’s New Certificate Program Boosts Presentation Skills to Further Career Growth

The ability to present on any subject, in any place, to any audience is an invaluable asset for every professional. According a Forbes report on a new survey, seventy percent of Americans who give presentations agree that strong presentation skills are critical to their success at work. Yet twenty percent of survey respondents said they would do almost anything to avoid giving a presentation.

Today’s accomplished working professionals lead through their ability to communicate information and emotion effectively, even in the most intimidating circumstances. Cornell’s new Executive Presence certificate program will help learners conquer performance anxiety, refine public speaking skills, and build confidence, with the end goal of maximizing speaker-listener connection and furthering career growth.

“Executive Presence is not magic,” says faculty author David Feldshuh, Professor of Performing and Media Arts, Cornell University College of Arts and Sciences. “It’s a skillset that learners can master with practice and experience.”

The course teaches the learner how to use breathing, visual focus, voice, and gesture to deliver authentic and engaging presentations in a wide variety of settings, from formal speeches to personal interviews. Through the use of video feedback, self-coaching questions, rubric self-analysis, and expert real-time coaching, students learn to diminish restrictive presentation habits, including performance anxiety and mannerisms, and work to become more responsive and expressive. They gain increased insight by watching others present, and understand more fully the importance of effective body language and vocal variety.

“It’s not about achieving perfection or competing with someone else,” says Dr. Feldshuh. “In this class, you compete with yourself. The core skills, analytical tools, and transformative training exercises are intended to position the learner for a lifetime of development. A fundamental learning goal is for learners to know themselves as presenters, and become experts in self-coaching to ensure continued improvement after the course is completed.”

Aspiring leaders, managers, senior leaders and executives, CEOs, actors and performers, and anyone who wants to strengthen his or her ability to connect with others while speaking will find value in this certificate program, which is available online through eCornell.

Upon successful completion of the Executive Presence certificate program, which consists of a single, 15-week course, learners earn an Executive Presence Certificate from Cornell College of Arts and Sciences, and 60 professional development hours.