10 answers
kevin
Student
1
Question
Updated
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What types of options do i have to start my engineering career as a highschooler ?
I am looking to become an engineer, but I'm still only in high school,l and I don't know what type of path I should take, so if it's a college degree or an internship I still don't know much.
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10 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1899
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Kevin check with your highschool guidance counsel on extracurricular activities and clubs your school offers related to engineering. Engineering is a rapidly expanding field with strong growth projections and great earning potential. Many top students now identify engineering as a field of interest early on, beginning career prep and setting themselves apart early in their high school careers. Because of this, engineering programs have become highly competitive, even at colleges and universities with higher general acceptance rates. Good grades and high test scores are no longer enough to get you into a quality engineering program. In addition to good grades, your application needs to showcase your dedication to your engineering career path. By carefully choosing extracurricular pursuits that demonstrate your commitment to engineering, you can stand out to admissions committees and increase your chances of getting into a top engineering programs.
1️⃣ GOOD GRADES
It should not be a surprise that you need good grades and scores to get into college, especially for such a competitive field. Building a strong academic foundation is crucial. Schools like to see you getting the highest grades possible in the hardest classes your school offers, so seek out AP, IB and honors courses.
2️⃣ CLUBS
If you join an engineering club at your high school, use it as an opportunity to meet team members for future projects and competitions. Together with these new friends, you can create tangible products that will be marketable during your college admissions process.
👾 ROBOTICS/ENGINEERING CLUB
Joining or starting a robotics or engineering club provides hands-on experience with design, building, and programming. This can be a great way to explore different engineering fields and develop problem-solving skills.
🌀 STEM CLUBS
STEM clubs (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) provide a platform for students to engage in various projects and activities related to STEM fields. These clubs can offer opportunities to explore different areas of engineering and learn new skills.
3️⃣ COMPETITIONS
Because engineering is such a hands-on practice, competitions are a great extracurricular option! When admissions officers see engineering competitions on a resume, they know that the student is dedicated, is able to learn rather than just memorize, and can work well with others. These are very important qualities.
🌐 ENGINEERING DESIGN COMPETITIONS
Participating in engineering design challenges, like building a bridge or designing a vehicle, provides a structured way to apply engineering principles. These competitions often involve working in teams, which fosters collaboration and communication skills.
♾️ SCIENCE AND MATH OLYMPIADS
These competitions offer a rigorous challenge in STEM subjects, pushing students to think critically and solve problems. Participation in Olympiads demonstrates a strong aptitude for science and math, which is essential for engineering success.
4️⃣ COMMUNITY COLLEGE COURSES
Though we hesitate to recommend online engineering courses — because engineering is a very hands-on practice — I highly recommend community college courses as a way to improve your engineering skills before stepping onto a college campus. Community college courses are reasonably priced, do not require students to travel far from home, and are a great way to get exposed to the format and rigor of college-level courses. They are also a surefire way to make your college application stand out.
5️⃣ INTERNSHIPS
One of the best ways to demonstrate your commitment to engineering is by gaining real-world experience. Seek out internships or part-time jobs related to engineering, even if they are unpaid. These experiences will not only provide insight into the industry, but will also help your apps. Whether it's working with a local engineering firm, working construction, or being a City Hall intern in the City Planning office, any hands-on experience in your niche can help.
Hope this was helpful Kevin
1️⃣ GOOD GRADES
It should not be a surprise that you need good grades and scores to get into college, especially for such a competitive field. Building a strong academic foundation is crucial. Schools like to see you getting the highest grades possible in the hardest classes your school offers, so seek out AP, IB and honors courses.
2️⃣ CLUBS
If you join an engineering club at your high school, use it as an opportunity to meet team members for future projects and competitions. Together with these new friends, you can create tangible products that will be marketable during your college admissions process.
👾 ROBOTICS/ENGINEERING CLUB
Joining or starting a robotics or engineering club provides hands-on experience with design, building, and programming. This can be a great way to explore different engineering fields and develop problem-solving skills.
🌀 STEM CLUBS
STEM clubs (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) provide a platform for students to engage in various projects and activities related to STEM fields. These clubs can offer opportunities to explore different areas of engineering and learn new skills.
3️⃣ COMPETITIONS
Because engineering is such a hands-on practice, competitions are a great extracurricular option! When admissions officers see engineering competitions on a resume, they know that the student is dedicated, is able to learn rather than just memorize, and can work well with others. These are very important qualities.
🌐 ENGINEERING DESIGN COMPETITIONS
Participating in engineering design challenges, like building a bridge or designing a vehicle, provides a structured way to apply engineering principles. These competitions often involve working in teams, which fosters collaboration and communication skills.
♾️ SCIENCE AND MATH OLYMPIADS
These competitions offer a rigorous challenge in STEM subjects, pushing students to think critically and solve problems. Participation in Olympiads demonstrates a strong aptitude for science and math, which is essential for engineering success.
4️⃣ COMMUNITY COLLEGE COURSES
Though we hesitate to recommend online engineering courses — because engineering is a very hands-on practice — I highly recommend community college courses as a way to improve your engineering skills before stepping onto a college campus. Community college courses are reasonably priced, do not require students to travel far from home, and are a great way to get exposed to the format and rigor of college-level courses. They are also a surefire way to make your college application stand out.
5️⃣ INTERNSHIPS
One of the best ways to demonstrate your commitment to engineering is by gaining real-world experience. Seek out internships or part-time jobs related to engineering, even if they are unpaid. These experiences will not only provide insight into the industry, but will also help your apps. Whether it's working with a local engineering firm, working construction, or being a City Hall intern in the City Planning office, any hands-on experience in your niche can help.
Hope this was helpful Kevin
Thank You Karin. How wonderful that no one need wait a single moment to improve the world.
Doc Frick
Karim Habib
Senior Engineer
10
Answers
Saint Petersburg, Florida
Updated
Karim’s Answer
Hello Kevin!
When I was in high school, I took an internship to see what exactly interested me about engineering, because there are so many areas to explore: mechanical, electrical, industrial, computer, etc. Once you get an internship (or a few), you will need to go to school for an engineering degree to show future employers you have the skills necessary to solve engineering problems. You don't have to go to the fanciest or most prestigious school, many engineers often times begin at their state offered engineering school, and with experience, gain skillsets that important companies are looking for. Should you want to pursue a more specific realm of engineering, you could then pursue a master's or PhD, but that will be further down the line.
What I would focus on now is looking locally at manufacturing or engineering firms in your area and look for any internship opportunities they offer. Once you have experience there, when you apply to college, you'll have a better idea of what major in engineering you will want to study for.
Best of luck!
-Karim
When I was in high school, I took an internship to see what exactly interested me about engineering, because there are so many areas to explore: mechanical, electrical, industrial, computer, etc. Once you get an internship (or a few), you will need to go to school for an engineering degree to show future employers you have the skills necessary to solve engineering problems. You don't have to go to the fanciest or most prestigious school, many engineers often times begin at their state offered engineering school, and with experience, gain skillsets that important companies are looking for. Should you want to pursue a more specific realm of engineering, you could then pursue a master's or PhD, but that will be further down the line.
What I would focus on now is looking locally at manufacturing or engineering firms in your area and look for any internship opportunities they offer. Once you have experience there, when you apply to college, you'll have a better idea of what major in engineering you will want to study for.
Best of luck!
-Karim
Carly Kane
Talent Acquisition
5
Answers
Burlington, New Jersey
Updated
Carly’s Answer
I'm a recruiter for engineers, especially Industrial Engineers, and it's fantastic to see students like you eager to start early! Getting into engineering while you're in high school is definitely doable, and the sooner you begin, the better! Start by taking classes in math, science, and computer science to find out what you enjoy most. This will help you decide which engineering path to follow later. Look for STEM or engineering clubs at your school or online if there isn't one. Summer programs, online courses, and hands-on projects are great ways to gain experience and have fun. The more you explore, the more you'll find what you love.
Good luck!
Good luck!
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2140
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know you have interest in engineering.
Below are my suggestions:
1. There are many strands of engineering, eg electrical & electronic engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, manufacturing engineering, computer, etc. Each have specific domain knowledge and skills. You can find out ore different engineering types online
2. Find out more on different engineering streams and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these engineering jobs. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 engineering streams you have interest
5. Explore the entry criteria relevant subjects in colleges. Work hard to meet the criteria
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. There are many strands of engineering, eg electrical & electronic engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, manufacturing engineering, computer, etc. Each have specific domain knowledge and skills. You can find out ore different engineering types online
2. Find out more on different engineering streams and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these engineering jobs. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 engineering streams you have interest
5. Explore the entry criteria relevant subjects in colleges. Work hard to meet the criteria
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Researcher and Software Developer
230
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
You're doing great by aiming to become an engineer at this stage. To build a strong foundation, focus on subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Statistics. Ask your teachers for guidance and useful resources. Get involved in engineering clubs and competitions, attend workshops and labs, and consider volunteering or interning with local organizations. Your school's career center can be a helpful resource too.
I also recommend exploring platforms like pathwaystoscience.org and STEM for All, and tryengineeringtogether.com, which offer opportunities and resources for aspiring engineers. Online platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Khan Academy offer courses that can support your learning. Practice your design and problem-solving skills in core subjects, and begin building a professional network by creating a LinkedIn profile. Join groups like High School students in STEM, Future Engineers, and Engineering Careers to connect with peers and professionals. Participate in online communities such as Stack Overflow, Discord, and Reddit particularly r/Ask Engineers and r/Engineering Students. Open GitHub account and contribute to open-source projects on GitHub. By taking these steps, you'll be well on your way to a successful engineering career. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask!
I also recommend exploring platforms like pathwaystoscience.org and STEM for All, and tryengineeringtogether.com, which offer opportunities and resources for aspiring engineers. Online platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Khan Academy offer courses that can support your learning. Practice your design and problem-solving skills in core subjects, and begin building a professional network by creating a LinkedIn profile. Join groups like High School students in STEM, Future Engineers, and Engineering Careers to connect with peers and professionals. Participate in online communities such as Stack Overflow, Discord, and Reddit particularly r/Ask Engineers and r/Engineering Students. Open GitHub account and contribute to open-source projects on GitHub. By taking these steps, you'll be well on your way to a successful engineering career. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask!
Don Dunlap
Consultant
4
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Don’s Answer
Kevin, that's a great question! I had similar thoughts when I was in high school. If you're interested in engineering, here are some steps you can take:
1. Focus on advanced math and science classes.
2. Join STEM-related clubs like robotics, science competitions, or coding clubs.
3. Take AP or dual-enrollment courses.
4. Start learning basic CAD software.
5. Look for job shadowing or high school internships during the summer.
6. Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss internships, coursework, and scholarships.
These steps can help you build a strong foundation for a future in engineering.
1. Focus on advanced math and science classes.
2. Join STEM-related clubs like robotics, science competitions, or coding clubs.
3. Take AP or dual-enrollment courses.
4. Start learning basic CAD software.
5. Look for job shadowing or high school internships during the summer.
6. Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss internships, coursework, and scholarships.
These steps can help you build a strong foundation for a future in engineering.
Alec Raber
Management Consulting
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Alec’s Answer
Hi Kevin, it's great that you are thinking about engineering so early! Most, not all engineers do get a college degree, but here a couple things you can do at this point in your journey!
1) Take a lot of math and science classes, specifically anything that sounds interesting to you! (or any hands on class like woodshop)
2) Join engineering related clubs like robotics, coding, math, or science clubs
3) Research the different types of engineering degrees (chemical, mechanical, etc.) and the jobs associated with those degrees. You can do this on our own or attend seminars around college degrees
4) Research engineering jobs that may not need degrees
5) Research schools with engineering programs that you may be interested in
6) Look for different forums to talk to engineers about what their day-to-day looks like.
Hope this helps Kevin !
1) Take a lot of math and science classes, specifically anything that sounds interesting to you! (or any hands on class like woodshop)
2) Join engineering related clubs like robotics, coding, math, or science clubs
3) Research the different types of engineering degrees (chemical, mechanical, etc.) and the jobs associated with those degrees. You can do this on our own or attend seminars around college degrees
4) Research engineering jobs that may not need degrees
5) Research schools with engineering programs that you may be interested in
6) Look for different forums to talk to engineers about what their day-to-day looks like.
Hope this helps Kevin !
Ron Llanes
Mechanical Engineer
2
Answers
Arlington Heights, Illinois
Updated
Ron’s Answer
Hi Kevin-
As a practicing mechanical engineer, it's good to hear that you are considering a career in engineering. Engineering offers so many options, from mechanical engineering to materials sciences to biomedical engineering. But common throughout engineering is a person's zeal for learning, problem-solving and developing solutions.
There is a big push in many engineering fields in the areas of additive manufacturing (think 3d-printing) and AI. Many graduating engineers now have very good knowledge of software like Python . I would suggest that you start learning and even start using some of these tools now to get a good start heading into college and your engineering career.
Best of luck, Kevin!
As a practicing mechanical engineer, it's good to hear that you are considering a career in engineering. Engineering offers so many options, from mechanical engineering to materials sciences to biomedical engineering. But common throughout engineering is a person's zeal for learning, problem-solving and developing solutions.
There is a big push in many engineering fields in the areas of additive manufacturing (think 3d-printing) and AI. Many graduating engineers now have very good knowledge of software like Python . I would suggest that you start learning and even start using some of these tools now to get a good start heading into college and your engineering career.
Best of luck, Kevin!
Aparna Manoj
Technical Product Manager
42
Answers
Sunnyvale, California
Updated
Aparna’s Answer
Hi Kevin! It's awesome that you're already planning your path to become a successful engineer while still in high school. Here are some steps you can take:
1) Focus on STEM subjects like advanced math, science, and programming. If you can, take AP courses to show colleges your readiness for challenging work. Join STEM clubs, competitions, or science fairs to get involved.
2) Work on engineering projects outside of school to show you're a self-starter. Create a GitHub account to display your work and build a portfolio. If you like hardware engineering, try DIY projects at home. YouTube has lots of free resources to help you.
3) Start learning programming as soon as possible. It's a valuable skill that will help you in college and open up new project opportunities. Even if your school doesn't offer programming classes early on, try to learn it on your own.
4) Look for internships, job shadowing, or youth engineering programs in your area. Real-world experience is important, and some universities offer summer camps for high school students. These can help you meet peers and industry professionals.
1) Focus on STEM subjects like advanced math, science, and programming. If you can, take AP courses to show colleges your readiness for challenging work. Join STEM clubs, competitions, or science fairs to get involved.
2) Work on engineering projects outside of school to show you're a self-starter. Create a GitHub account to display your work and build a portfolio. If you like hardware engineering, try DIY projects at home. YouTube has lots of free resources to help you.
3) Start learning programming as soon as possible. It's a valuable skill that will help you in college and open up new project opportunities. Even if your school doesn't offer programming classes early on, try to learn it on your own.
4) Look for internships, job shadowing, or youth engineering programs in your area. Real-world experience is important, and some universities offer summer camps for high school students. These can help you meet peers and industry professionals.
Abhishek Singhal
4
Answers
Updated
Abhishek’s Answer
That's a great question! There are many ways to get ready for a future in engineering. Based on what you like and your schedule, you can join projects at high school or local clubs, try freelancing, or start your own passion project. The important thing is to pick an area you like, make a learning plan, and use the many free online resources available. By working on projects, you'll improve your skills and figure out what you enjoy most. This will help you get ready for college and your future career.