6 answers
Jenessa
Student
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How to find what your interest are as a Engineering student And what advice would you have for freshmen starting out??
How to find what your interest are as a Engineering student? And what advice would you have for freshmen starting out?
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6 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Heyo Jenessa,
Firstly, William made a great point about how our environment influences our interests and how engineering is about solving real-world problems. I'll expand on his insights and add further recommendations as much I can just to help you discover your interests and thrive as a freshman in engineering. 🙌
Let's start with.... Finding Your Interests in Engineering🤔
Observe What Excites You
Think about what sparks your curiosity. Do you get fascinated by how machines work? Do you enjoy coding? Do you love designing structures? Engineering covers many fields:
Mechanical Engineering – Machines, cars, robotics
Electrical Engineering – Circuits, power grids, microchips
Civil Engineering – Buildings, bridges, roads
Software Engineering – Programming, AI, cybersecurity
Aerospace Engineering – Planes, spacecraft
Biomedical Engineering – Medical devices, prosthetics
Make sure to, Look around and note what excites you the most. If you’re unsure, start exploring multiple fields before committing to one!
Even, Try Hands-on Projects
Doing real projects helps you see what you enjoy. Some ways to explore:
Join clubs – Robotics, coding, Formula SAE, or any engineering group
Work on DIY projects – Fix electronics, 3D print something, build a small app
Do internships or research – Even small experiences help you see what fits
Now For... Advice for Freshmen Starting Out
My colleague would say always To Master the Fundamentals At hand!
Engineering is built on math and physics. Don’t just memorize formulas—understand them!
If you struggle, use resources like Khan Academy, MIT OpenCourseWare, and YouTube tutorials.
Study in groups – Explaining concepts to others deepens your understanding.
Also, Develop Problem-Solving Skills
Engineering is about solving problems creatively. Strengthen your skills by:
🔹 Tackling real-world problems – Think about common engineering challenges and how to fix them.
🔹 Practicing coding – Even non-software engineers benefit from Python, MATLAB, or C++.
🔹 Learning critical thinking – Don’t just accept solutions—ask why they work.
Network & Seek Mentorship
Connect with professors, seniors, and professionals. They can help with:
Advice on career paths like here!
Research opportunities
Internships and networking which will help alot.
Use LinkedIn, engineering societies (IEEE, ASME, etc.), and university events to grow your network. You never know what will end up on the way! 🙂↕️
Make sure To Balance Studies & Your Mental Health ofcours!
Engineering can be challenging, so avoid burnout by manage your time wisely – Keep a schedule for classes, assignments, and breaks. And, Don’t fear failure – It’s normal! Learn from mistakes and keep improving.
Also, take breaks & stay active – Exercise and social activities help reduce stress.
Jenessa, engineering is about curiosity, problem-solving, and making an impact. Stay open to learning, try different experiences, and enjoy the journey. You don’t have to figure everything out immediately—explore and grow!
Let me know if you need more specific advice! We are here for you, stay blessed and good luck always! 🤗
Explore different engineering fields – Attend events, do projects, or shadow engineers.
Strengthen math & problem-solving skills – It will make coursework easier!
Join clubs & hands-on projects – Learn by doing.
Seek mentors & networking opportunities – Guidance will open doors for you.
Take care of your well-being – College is tough, but with balance, you’ll thrive.
Firstly, William made a great point about how our environment influences our interests and how engineering is about solving real-world problems. I'll expand on his insights and add further recommendations as much I can just to help you discover your interests and thrive as a freshman in engineering. 🙌
Let's start with.... Finding Your Interests in Engineering🤔
Observe What Excites You
Think about what sparks your curiosity. Do you get fascinated by how machines work? Do you enjoy coding? Do you love designing structures? Engineering covers many fields:
Mechanical Engineering – Machines, cars, robotics
Electrical Engineering – Circuits, power grids, microchips
Civil Engineering – Buildings, bridges, roads
Software Engineering – Programming, AI, cybersecurity
Aerospace Engineering – Planes, spacecraft
Biomedical Engineering – Medical devices, prosthetics
Make sure to, Look around and note what excites you the most. If you’re unsure, start exploring multiple fields before committing to one!
Even, Try Hands-on Projects
Doing real projects helps you see what you enjoy. Some ways to explore:
Join clubs – Robotics, coding, Formula SAE, or any engineering group
Work on DIY projects – Fix electronics, 3D print something, build a small app
Do internships or research – Even small experiences help you see what fits
Now For... Advice for Freshmen Starting Out
My colleague would say always To Master the Fundamentals At hand!
Engineering is built on math and physics. Don’t just memorize formulas—understand them!
If you struggle, use resources like Khan Academy, MIT OpenCourseWare, and YouTube tutorials.
Study in groups – Explaining concepts to others deepens your understanding.
Also, Develop Problem-Solving Skills
Engineering is about solving problems creatively. Strengthen your skills by:
🔹 Tackling real-world problems – Think about common engineering challenges and how to fix them.
🔹 Practicing coding – Even non-software engineers benefit from Python, MATLAB, or C++.
🔹 Learning critical thinking – Don’t just accept solutions—ask why they work.
Network & Seek Mentorship
Connect with professors, seniors, and professionals. They can help with:
Advice on career paths like here!
Research opportunities
Internships and networking which will help alot.
Use LinkedIn, engineering societies (IEEE, ASME, etc.), and university events to grow your network. You never know what will end up on the way! 🙂↕️
Make sure To Balance Studies & Your Mental Health ofcours!
Engineering can be challenging, so avoid burnout by manage your time wisely – Keep a schedule for classes, assignments, and breaks. And, Don’t fear failure – It’s normal! Learn from mistakes and keep improving.
Also, take breaks & stay active – Exercise and social activities help reduce stress.
Jenessa, engineering is about curiosity, problem-solving, and making an impact. Stay open to learning, try different experiences, and enjoy the journey. You don’t have to figure everything out immediately—explore and grow!
Let me know if you need more specific advice! We are here for you, stay blessed and good luck always! 🤗
Dr recommends the following next steps:
Elizabeth Thesing
Engineering
33
Answers
Springfield, Ohio
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
Hi Jenessa! You have two great answers here already - I only want to give a personal insight to this question.
I graduated university with a degree in Chemical Engineering. You may think this means I've worked in that field since then, but pretty much the opposite is true! These are just some of the fields I've worked in: Control Systems (as a programming engineer/consultant), Carbon Fiber (as R&D engineer, manufacturing engineer, and quality engineer), Aerospace manufacturing (manufacturing and quality engineers), Textiles (process engineer), Electronics and Sensors (supervisor, quality engineer), and back to Aerospace manufacturing (Process Trainer).
I LOVED my degree, and I'm still very nerdy about chemistry and chemical processing. Much of what I learned at university for my degree has been useful in my career thus far even if I haven't applied most of the chemistry part of it. I learned how to think and problem solve, got my piece of paper that says I know how to do that (my diploma), and after a few years of experience I've been able to apply to a multitude of jobs just because I have an engineering degree.
I think the important thing is finding an engineering program you'll enjoy enough to push through the difficult classes and get the degree. You'll have a whole, wide world ahead of you once you have that piece of paper that says you know how to problem solve! And yes, hopefully you go into the field you studied - I still would love to go back to it. But I also love my job now.
Think about what classes you enjoy or what you like doing. When I was in high school I loved my chemistry classes and doing lab experiments, so it was natural for me to go into chemical engineering. My sister, on the other hand, loved biology and medical stuff, so she went into biomedical engineering. I have friends who loved cars and taking things apart who opted for mechanical engineering.
Also, visit the different engineering departments and see if you can learn about the classes they require, what extra curriculars they offer at the college level for that department/degree program, and get a feel for if you would like to learn about those topics or something else. Open houses are a great way to learn just a little more as well as ask questions of current students.
Good luck!
I graduated university with a degree in Chemical Engineering. You may think this means I've worked in that field since then, but pretty much the opposite is true! These are just some of the fields I've worked in: Control Systems (as a programming engineer/consultant), Carbon Fiber (as R&D engineer, manufacturing engineer, and quality engineer), Aerospace manufacturing (manufacturing and quality engineers), Textiles (process engineer), Electronics and Sensors (supervisor, quality engineer), and back to Aerospace manufacturing (Process Trainer).
I LOVED my degree, and I'm still very nerdy about chemistry and chemical processing. Much of what I learned at university for my degree has been useful in my career thus far even if I haven't applied most of the chemistry part of it. I learned how to think and problem solve, got my piece of paper that says I know how to do that (my diploma), and after a few years of experience I've been able to apply to a multitude of jobs just because I have an engineering degree.
I think the important thing is finding an engineering program you'll enjoy enough to push through the difficult classes and get the degree. You'll have a whole, wide world ahead of you once you have that piece of paper that says you know how to problem solve! And yes, hopefully you go into the field you studied - I still would love to go back to it. But I also love my job now.
Think about what classes you enjoy or what you like doing. When I was in high school I loved my chemistry classes and doing lab experiments, so it was natural for me to go into chemical engineering. My sister, on the other hand, loved biology and medical stuff, so she went into biomedical engineering. I have friends who loved cars and taking things apart who opted for mechanical engineering.
Also, visit the different engineering departments and see if you can learn about the classes they require, what extra curriculars they offer at the college level for that department/degree program, and get a feel for if you would like to learn about those topics or something else. Open houses are a great way to learn just a little more as well as ask questions of current students.
Good luck!
Natasha P
Engineering Leader
4
Answers
Cupertino, California
Updated
Natasha’s Answer
After decades in Engineering and being in the community for so long, I have learnt to navigate engineering from various perspectives. I am happy to share with you how I usually connect those different perspectives to specific engineering degrees and how they manifest in practice:
1. The Engineer as a Storyteller:
Architectural Engineering/Civil Engineering (with a focus on urban planning):
These engineers design structures and urban spaces that tell stories about the community, its history, and its aspirations. They consider the aesthetic and cultural impact of their designs, crafting narratives through the built environment.
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) in Computer Science/Software Engineering:
These engineers design user interfaces and experiences that tell stories through interactive technology. They focus on creating intuitive and engaging experiences that guide users through a narrative.
2. The Engineer as an Artist:
Industrial Design Engineering:
This field explicitly blends engineering principles with artistic design. Engineers create products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, emphasizing form, color, and texture.
Lighting Engineering (Electrical Engineering specialization):
These engineers use light as a medium to create artistic and functional spaces. They consider the emotional and visual impact of lighting design, using light to sculpt and paint with illumination.
Sound Engineering (Electrical Engineering specialization):
These engineers manipulate sound waves to create artistic and immersive soundscapes. They use their knowledge of acoustics and electronics to produce and enhance audio experiences.
3. The Engineer as a Social Architect:
Environmental Engineering:
These engineers design sustainable solutions that protect the environment and improve public health. They focus on creating equitable and accessible infrastructure that benefits all members of society.
Biomedical Engineering (with a focus on assistive technology):
These engineers design devices and systems that enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities. They focus on creating accessible and inclusive technologies that empower individuals and promote social inclusion.
Civil Engineering (with a focus on public transportation):
These engineers design and implement transportation systems that connect communities and promote social mobility.
4. The Engineer as an Explorer:
Aerospace Engineering:
These engineers push the boundaries of flight and space exploration, designing aircraft and spacecraft that venture into uncharted territories.
Materials Science and Engineering:
These engineers explore the properties of materials at the atomic level, discovering new materials with unique properties that can revolutionize various industries.
Robotics Engineering:
These engineers explore the frontiers of automation and artificial intelligence, developing robots that can perform complex tasks in diverse environments.
5. The Engineer as a Systems Thinker:
Systems Engineering:
This field focuses on designing and managing complex systems, ensuring that all components work together seamlessly to achieve a common goal.
Chemical Engineering (Process Design):
These engineers design and optimize chemical processes, considering the interactions between different components and ensuring efficient and safe operation.
Computer Engineering (Embedded Systems):
These engineers design and implement computer systems that are integrated into larger systems, ensuring that hardware and software components work together harmoniously.
6. The Engineer as an Ethical Guardian:
Software Engineering (Cybersecurity):
These engineers design secure software systems that protect sensitive data and prevent cyberattacks, ensuring the ethical use of technology.
Nuclear Engineering:
These engineers are acutely aware of the potential risks associated with nuclear technology and prioritize safety and responsible management.
Bioengineering (Genetic Engineering):
These engineers must consider the ethical implications of modifying living organisms, and ensure that their work is used responsibly.
By connecting these perspectives to specific engineering degrees, we can see how the diverse roles of engineers manifest in real-world applications. Hope you will be able to find your passion and perspective in some of these above or even build your own new perspective using the above! Cheers to success!
1. The Engineer as a Storyteller:
Architectural Engineering/Civil Engineering (with a focus on urban planning):
These engineers design structures and urban spaces that tell stories about the community, its history, and its aspirations. They consider the aesthetic and cultural impact of their designs, crafting narratives through the built environment.
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) in Computer Science/Software Engineering:
These engineers design user interfaces and experiences that tell stories through interactive technology. They focus on creating intuitive and engaging experiences that guide users through a narrative.
2. The Engineer as an Artist:
Industrial Design Engineering:
This field explicitly blends engineering principles with artistic design. Engineers create products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, emphasizing form, color, and texture.
Lighting Engineering (Electrical Engineering specialization):
These engineers use light as a medium to create artistic and functional spaces. They consider the emotional and visual impact of lighting design, using light to sculpt and paint with illumination.
Sound Engineering (Electrical Engineering specialization):
These engineers manipulate sound waves to create artistic and immersive soundscapes. They use their knowledge of acoustics and electronics to produce and enhance audio experiences.
3. The Engineer as a Social Architect:
Environmental Engineering:
These engineers design sustainable solutions that protect the environment and improve public health. They focus on creating equitable and accessible infrastructure that benefits all members of society.
Biomedical Engineering (with a focus on assistive technology):
These engineers design devices and systems that enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities. They focus on creating accessible and inclusive technologies that empower individuals and promote social inclusion.
Civil Engineering (with a focus on public transportation):
These engineers design and implement transportation systems that connect communities and promote social mobility.
4. The Engineer as an Explorer:
Aerospace Engineering:
These engineers push the boundaries of flight and space exploration, designing aircraft and spacecraft that venture into uncharted territories.
Materials Science and Engineering:
These engineers explore the properties of materials at the atomic level, discovering new materials with unique properties that can revolutionize various industries.
Robotics Engineering:
These engineers explore the frontiers of automation and artificial intelligence, developing robots that can perform complex tasks in diverse environments.
5. The Engineer as a Systems Thinker:
Systems Engineering:
This field focuses on designing and managing complex systems, ensuring that all components work together seamlessly to achieve a common goal.
Chemical Engineering (Process Design):
These engineers design and optimize chemical processes, considering the interactions between different components and ensuring efficient and safe operation.
Computer Engineering (Embedded Systems):
These engineers design and implement computer systems that are integrated into larger systems, ensuring that hardware and software components work together harmoniously.
6. The Engineer as an Ethical Guardian:
Software Engineering (Cybersecurity):
These engineers design secure software systems that protect sensitive data and prevent cyberattacks, ensuring the ethical use of technology.
Nuclear Engineering:
These engineers are acutely aware of the potential risks associated with nuclear technology and prioritize safety and responsible management.
Bioengineering (Genetic Engineering):
These engineers must consider the ethical implications of modifying living organisms, and ensure that their work is used responsibly.
By connecting these perspectives to specific engineering degrees, we can see how the diverse roles of engineers manifest in real-world applications. Hope you will be able to find your passion and perspective in some of these above or even build your own new perspective using the above! Cheers to success!
Linda Harris DACM
Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine
7
Answers
San Diego, CA
Updated
Linda’s Answer
When I was working on an advanced degree in my field, a professor had us take a free survey designed by a nonprofit to measure various traits like justice, kindness, leadership, bravery, creativity, etc., to help home in on our strengths and motivators and understand our weaknesses. I realized I wasn't fully utilizing my top strength, and it was affecting my motivation. I made small changes, and I felt happier overall. I believe every young person trying to figure out life and a career could benefit from the insights gained. In our world, it's easy to get distracted by the values of others, but to experience a sense of meaning and enjoyment, we need to follow our own. Even when we believe we know ourselves well, taking time to think about what we value is beneficial. If we are choosing between different jobs, there is a tendency to look at salary, commute time, and how well-known the company is. Those are important, but when we are in a job, how much we enjoy it often has more to do with what we are doing day to day. If a person is motivated by teamwork, creativity, and bravery, a job that prioritizes collaboration to come up with and try new, innovative ideas even if they fail is more likely to be satisfying than a job that requires following specific rules and carefully analyzing every potential outcome. Someone else may thrive with order and careful analysis. Those are glaring examples; it's usually more subtle. The survey covers 24 key qualities and provides a list of where each falls for you that you can print or save. It's called the VIA strengths survey. I am not sure if posting links is permitted. It's easy to find, free, and it takes 10 minutes or so.
William Vvuko
Retired engineer
158
Answers
Moyo, Northern Region
Updated
William’s Answer
Hi Jenessa,
You raise an interesting point. Growing up, we are influenced by many things in our surroundings: houses, roads, computers, smart phones, cars, kitchen ware, furniture, electrical appliances, role models etc. As we get older, our interests get more refined. We eventually start fixing electrical appliances in the home, faulty bicycles, changing car tyres etc.
Graduating in to high school gives us a real chance to identify the subjects we are really good at.
Proficiency in such subjects as maths, physics, chemistry, technical drawing, graphics & design, computer applications put us in a good stead to persue careers in the many engineering disciplines.
Engineering is about resolving some of the many challenges we face as society that require engineering solutions. A quick look at your community might be instructive as to what you may be able to do to change people's lives.
The choices we make can and should be driven by our desire to make our world a better place to live in.
At the end of the day, we need to choose what interests us the most. It has to be something that evokes passion in us and the desire to be our very best.
Many disciplines are available: civil, electrical, structural, production, mechanical, software, aerospace engineering etc.
I sincerely hope you find this useful.
You raise an interesting point. Growing up, we are influenced by many things in our surroundings: houses, roads, computers, smart phones, cars, kitchen ware, furniture, electrical appliances, role models etc. As we get older, our interests get more refined. We eventually start fixing electrical appliances in the home, faulty bicycles, changing car tyres etc.
Graduating in to high school gives us a real chance to identify the subjects we are really good at.
Proficiency in such subjects as maths, physics, chemistry, technical drawing, graphics & design, computer applications put us in a good stead to persue careers in the many engineering disciplines.
Engineering is about resolving some of the many challenges we face as society that require engineering solutions. A quick look at your community might be instructive as to what you may be able to do to change people's lives.
The choices we make can and should be driven by our desire to make our world a better place to live in.
At the end of the day, we need to choose what interests us the most. It has to be something that evokes passion in us and the desire to be our very best.
Many disciplines are available: civil, electrical, structural, production, mechanical, software, aerospace engineering etc.
I sincerely hope you find this useful.
Jamie Mathews
Construction and Engineering Administration
34
Answers
Fort Worth, Texas
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
So many good answers already! I agree with them that even if you specialize in a field opportunities outside your degree field may well present themselves. My degree is in electrical engineering but I've worked my entire career in telecommunications from systems administration on the computer end to handling major cable outages. Definitely find out what is right for you. I more or less tripped and fell into electrical engineering and found I had a knack for it. Talk to your counselors and don't be afraid to take those career interest survey and be honest in your answers and it may well surprise you and help you define your scholastic and career arc.