As the semester comes to an end, final projects are on the rise. Group projects in particular are often hectic at this time; everyone is scrambling to try and finish their work while also making sure each group member has finished their share of the project. In my experience, however, I’ve enjoyed group projects despite their negative reputation.

Group projects are one of the best ways to learn how to work together. This is especially true for computer science projects; learning how to integrate your own code with others can sometimes pose a problem, but it is a valuable skill as you enter the workforce. Everyone has their own style when it comes to work, and being able to put each person’s strength together is a huge part.

Learning to work with other personalities is also essential. Recently, in one of my classes, I learned how hard it is to work with a set of people who have differences in style. This arises when people aren’t from the same background. Workplaces often employ people who graduated with different degrees and are from different regions, who all must work together on one product or delivery. In most cases, everyone just wants this delivery to be the best it can, yet the methods of getting there can vary. The ability to find compromise within a group is important.

Doing group projects also instills a sense of responsibility. People learn if they want the project done, they must finish their parts. There are people to hold them accountable for their deadlines, since otherwise, they can drag the whole group down.

These projects are also good for meeting other people within your major. I’ve had two completely random groups throughout college so far, and I’ve met some genuinely great people through them. I wasn’t acquainted with these people before these projects, but I enjoyed meeting others in the same college as me.

The final deliverable is often something better than I could create myself. It’s something that can be used early on to build your resume before you really have any accomplishments under your belt.

Group projects are notorious, but there’s a reason they are still a requirement in some colleges. Though they don’t exactly replicate a workplace, they are something most companies want you to have experience with. While you may not like them at the time, they provide valuable experiences for your future in the professional world.

Sriram is a junior in Engineering. 

[email protected]