im a first year ece student . Before jumping into any specific domain,What are the most important basics I should learn first?. for ex mathematics , basic electronics, programing etc .

Is there a common foundation that will make it easier to explore different ECE domains later? Also, what would you recommend learning during the first year?

Hi!👋
Does anyone know how to make a ring oscillator , using inverters, which will be connected to a buffer and then subsequently to an LED to “show” to frequency? I’ve been stuck on this for TWO days now😢😅. I tried using tinkercad and LTspice but to no avail. Also, I can seem to get my frequency to less than 5Hz to see the LED flashing the frequency.
I’ve attached a screenshot of the question as well as my LTspice simulation.

I’ve tried on tinkercad and kept on blowing the IC. Any help is appreciated. 🙏 I tried calculations too

I have been doing research in VLSI field under the best teacher of vlsi in all of ece since the start of 2nd year and still continue to do it(already wrote one conference paper and working on 2-3 journals and conferences) but I also want to learn coding of which I only know basics, I am currently low on my CG and have found out that I don't have interest in communications or pcb designing... What should I do?? Focus on CG or research or coding I am not able to manage all of them but I also I can't leave all of them as according to me they certainly will benefit me...😭😭

Are hardware hackathons as prominent as software ones? I am a 2nd year student interested in RTL design/VLSI. I was wondering that hackathons can be a good exposure. But I have a hard time finding them. On campus mostly software ones take place.

Can someone suggest how to find where these hackathons take place and how to know which are worth giving your time to? Also, many companies specific hackathons happen too so how to get details regarding it?

I'm a senior in EE specializing in photonics, quantum computing, and signal processing. I wanted to know if there's any jobs in NYC or any walkable cities where I wouldn't need a car to get by? I wanted to stay away from the south since I couldn't handle the humidity there. I know that NYC is known for fintech, but at the same time, I feel like I would enjoy living there due to the fact I don't need a car and exploring different cultures and how diverse it is. If NYC isn't the question, what other city should I consider based on my specialization and my degree career path in quantum optical communications/engineer?

Are there any companies that accept applicants who have a diploma in Electronics and Communication Technology but have no work experience yet? I am already 29 years old and going to take ECT board exam this October