15 answers
Ava
Student
5
Questions
Updated
5124 views
Tips/advice for high school student wanting to pursue engineering?
I’ve always had an interest in science and have decided I want to go into engineering in college, specifically majoring in MechE. As someone who is taking a year ahead my grade in math but is not specifically very good nor bad at it, is it unrealistic for me to want to pursue engineering? I can work very hard when I need to, especially for things I’m passionate about, so should I reconsider engineering. My ultimate goal is to working the motorsports field as a design engineer and I would seriously do anything to get there. I understand and learn programs very quickly and am relatively proficient with a CAD program my school provides, and would love to know other ways to get involved with CAD and engineering as a junior year high school student. I am also planning to take AP physics next year but am in Pre-Calculus this year, so I was wondering which AP physics course I should take with my current math knowledge.
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12 answers
Robiah Thabit
Process Engineer
13
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Robiah’s Answer
Hi Ava,
First, I want to say you’re already doing something many students don’t, which is being clear about your passion and actively looking for ways to prepare for it. That kind of drive will take you far. Please don’t feel discouraged about not being “the best” at math right now. Engineering is less about being perfect from the start and more about showing persistence, problem-solving, and the willingness to grow. The fact that you’re taking Pre-Calculus and planning AP Physics shows you’re building the right foundation.
Your interest in CAD and hands-on design is also a huge strength. Getting involved in projects, whether through school clubs, robotics, or even personal design challenges, will give you a head start that many students don’t have. Most importantly, remember that engineering and especially fields like motorsports is a journey. Careers rarely follow a straight line, and what matters is that you keep exploring, learning, and staying close to the things that excite you. From everything you’ve shared, you already have the passion and curiosity that can’t be taught. The skills will come with time, and I truly believe you’re on the right path.
Here are some resources you might find useful:
Onshape (Free CAD software for students)
https://www.onshape.com/en/education/
NASA Student Engineering Challenges https://www.nasa.gov/stem/forstudents/
Khan Academy – Math and Physics: https://www.khanacademy.org/
First, I want to say you’re already doing something many students don’t, which is being clear about your passion and actively looking for ways to prepare for it. That kind of drive will take you far. Please don’t feel discouraged about not being “the best” at math right now. Engineering is less about being perfect from the start and more about showing persistence, problem-solving, and the willingness to grow. The fact that you’re taking Pre-Calculus and planning AP Physics shows you’re building the right foundation.
Your interest in CAD and hands-on design is also a huge strength. Getting involved in projects, whether through school clubs, robotics, or even personal design challenges, will give you a head start that many students don’t have. Most importantly, remember that engineering and especially fields like motorsports is a journey. Careers rarely follow a straight line, and what matters is that you keep exploring, learning, and staying close to the things that excite you. From everything you’ve shared, you already have the passion and curiosity that can’t be taught. The skills will come with time, and I truly believe you’re on the right path.
Here are some resources you might find useful:
Onshape (Free CAD software for students)
https://www.onshape.com/en/education/
NASA Student Engineering Challenges https://www.nasa.gov/stem/forstudents/
Khan Academy – Math and Physics: https://www.khanacademy.org/
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Ava
William Vvuko
Retired engineer
154
Answers
Moyo, Northern Region
Updated
William’s Answer
Ava,
You have raised a great query. Interest is a great attribute when choosing a career. It draws focus & commitment out of you. The other attribute is enjoying what you do so you can pursue it with passion.
Mathematics is a foundational subject for any engineering course. So is physics. The other important subjects include chemistry, computer applications etc.
You already have the right mindset. There is always an opportunity for continuous improvement in everything you do in life. Your goal should be realizing your full potential. You will be surprised how far and high this takes you. Deep understanding of what you learn and attention to detail will help you a great deal in this regard.
You have raised a great query. Interest is a great attribute when choosing a career. It draws focus & commitment out of you. The other attribute is enjoying what you do so you can pursue it with passion.
Mathematics is a foundational subject for any engineering course. So is physics. The other important subjects include chemistry, computer applications etc.
You already have the right mindset. There is always an opportunity for continuous improvement in everything you do in life. Your goal should be realizing your full potential. You will be surprised how far and high this takes you. Deep understanding of what you learn and attention to detail will help you a great deal in this regard.
Thanks for your encouragement!
Ava
Ann P
Engineering Director
2
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Ann’s Answer
The best way to learn is to try building something yourself. I would suggest to try building an app or something that you yourself could use. Share that with your friends and family, get feedback, iterate and improve. This maps to real life engineering where you get feedback on the work you do, ask questions, implement solutions on the feedback you receive and make the user experience better.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Ava
Kaitlyn Corey
Occupational Therapy Assistant/Occupational Therapy Student
60
Answers
Graniteville, South Carolina
Updated
Kaitlyn’s Answer
It’s not unrealistic at all. Plenty of engineers started out feeling “average” at math but made it because they were motivated and willing to put in the work. What matters most is persistence and problem-solving, which you clearly have. Since you’re aiming for mechanical engineering and motorsports, keep building your math skills and don’t shy away from challenging classes. Pre-calculus now and AP physics next year is a solid plan. If your school offers AP Physics 1, that usually pairs better with where you are in math right now. Once you get into calculus, you can look at Physics C down the road.
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Ava!
In AP Physics C, you'll need to use first-order and second-order derivatives, but don't worry, it's doable. Check out this guide for engineering students: [https://blog.collegevine.com/ap-classes-for-engineering/]. Unlike AP Physics 1 and 2, AP Physics C uses calculus to explain concepts like motion, forces, and energy. Here's a helpful resource: [https://www.physicswizardtutoring.com/post/do-you-need-to-take-calculus-before-ap-physics-c-a-parent-student-guide].
Nutrition plays a key role in studying. To boost brain function and memory, include these in your diet:-
- Protein: Essential for brain health, found in meat, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
- Low-Glycemic Carbs: Whole grains, fruits, and starchy vegetables help maintain steady blood sugar.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish, flax seeds, and walnuts, they boost brain power.
- Moderate Caffeine: Coffee, tea, and dark chocolate can improve focus.
- Hydration: Drink water regularly for optimal brain function.
Seven small meals a day with moderate amounts of low-glycemic-index starchy high fiber foods every two hours, not three large meals with large amounts of high-glycemic-index carbohydrates like white bread or sugar! An ounce [28gr] of protein food [lean meat/poultry/seafood/dairy foods] in each of these snacks.
Balanced nutrition can improve concentration, memory, and academic performance. Pair it with exercise and a healthy lifestyle for the best results.
Only 3% of students get into Harvard, often with a GPA over 4. You can aim for a GPA of 4.8 to 5.0 by focusing on nutrition, which can also enhance work performance. Here are some tips:
1. Eat every two hours while studying or working to keep your brain fueled.
2. Drink 33 milliliters of water or green tea per kilogram of body weight daily for hydration and antioxidants.
3. Include a variety of vegetables in your salads for essential minerals.
4. Choose low-GI carbs (under 55) to keep blood sugar stable.
5. Consume 30-50 grams of protein per meal to support brain function.
6. Include about 25 grams of healthy fats like extra-virgin olive oil or fish oil.
Sample Meal: A sandwich with black pumpernickel rye bread, red salmon, olive oil spread, salad, and black olives, plus two cups of green tea.
GOD BLESS!
In AP Physics C, you'll need to use first-order and second-order derivatives, but don't worry, it's doable. Check out this guide for engineering students: [https://blog.collegevine.com/ap-classes-for-engineering/]. Unlike AP Physics 1 and 2, AP Physics C uses calculus to explain concepts like motion, forces, and energy. Here's a helpful resource: [https://www.physicswizardtutoring.com/post/do-you-need-to-take-calculus-before-ap-physics-c-a-parent-student-guide].
Nutrition plays a key role in studying. To boost brain function and memory, include these in your diet:-
- Protein: Essential for brain health, found in meat, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
- Low-Glycemic Carbs: Whole grains, fruits, and starchy vegetables help maintain steady blood sugar.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish, flax seeds, and walnuts, they boost brain power.
- Moderate Caffeine: Coffee, tea, and dark chocolate can improve focus.
- Hydration: Drink water regularly for optimal brain function.
Seven small meals a day with moderate amounts of low-glycemic-index starchy high fiber foods every two hours, not three large meals with large amounts of high-glycemic-index carbohydrates like white bread or sugar! An ounce [28gr] of protein food [lean meat/poultry/seafood/dairy foods] in each of these snacks.
Balanced nutrition can improve concentration, memory, and academic performance. Pair it with exercise and a healthy lifestyle for the best results.
Only 3% of students get into Harvard, often with a GPA over 4. You can aim for a GPA of 4.8 to 5.0 by focusing on nutrition, which can also enhance work performance. Here are some tips:
1. Eat every two hours while studying or working to keep your brain fueled.
2. Drink 33 milliliters of water or green tea per kilogram of body weight daily for hydration and antioxidants.
3. Include a variety of vegetables in your salads for essential minerals.
4. Choose low-GI carbs (under 55) to keep blood sugar stable.
5. Consume 30-50 grams of protein per meal to support brain function.
6. Include about 25 grams of healthy fats like extra-virgin olive oil or fish oil.
Sample Meal: A sandwich with black pumpernickel rye bread, red salmon, olive oil spread, salad, and black olives, plus two cups of green tea.
GOD BLESS!
Thank you, James Constantine!
Ava
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Ava. It's not unrealistic to want to pursue engineering just because you're not the strongest in math right now. Engineering is challenging, but it's more about dedication, problem-solving, and creativity.
Since you mentioned you can work very hard when you're passionate, that's a huge advantage. Many successful engineers started just like you, with a strong interest and a willingness to learn.
To get better at CAD and engineering, keep practicing the CAD program at school. There are also lots of YouTube tutorials and online courses that teach CAD and design skills for beginners. Joining a robotics or engineering club at school, if available, can also give you hands-on experience and teamwork skills.
Keep focusing on your passion, work hard in your math and science classes, and seek out opportunities to learn more about engineering outside the classroom. All the best!
Since you mentioned you can work very hard when you're passionate, that's a huge advantage. Many successful engineers started just like you, with a strong interest and a willingness to learn.
To get better at CAD and engineering, keep practicing the CAD program at school. There are also lots of YouTube tutorials and online courses that teach CAD and design skills for beginners. Joining a robotics or engineering club at school, if available, can also give you hands-on experience and teamwork skills.
Keep focusing on your passion, work hard in your math and science classes, and seek out opportunities to learn more about engineering outside the classroom. All the best!
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1092
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Ava,
If you are interested in engineering, you can definitely pursue it . You'll need math, but you don't need to be a math genius. Focus on math and physics in high-school, and if you have any engineering clubs, computer clubs, robotics clubs, you can use those to explore your talents a bit more. You could also check out your local and state Science Fairs and participate with an engineering project.
Mechanical Engineering is a great choice if you want to pursue a career in motorsport. Some universities also have specific programs geared towards motorsports:
https://motorsports.charlotte.edu
https://www.unoh.edu/academics/college-of-applied-technologies/high-performance-motorsports.html
https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/motorsports-engineering
I don't know where you are located, so I can't point you towards specific summer programs, but I left a few links to programs for high-school students below.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
https://www.stemracing.com/
https://www.mazdamotorsports.com/mazdaspeed-2/stem/
https://www.lumiere-education.com/post/9-automotive-engineering-summer-programs-for-high-school-students
If you are interested in engineering, you can definitely pursue it . You'll need math, but you don't need to be a math genius. Focus on math and physics in high-school, and if you have any engineering clubs, computer clubs, robotics clubs, you can use those to explore your talents a bit more. You could also check out your local and state Science Fairs and participate with an engineering project.
Mechanical Engineering is a great choice if you want to pursue a career in motorsport. Some universities also have specific programs geared towards motorsports:
https://motorsports.charlotte.edu
https://www.unoh.edu/academics/college-of-applied-technologies/high-performance-motorsports.html
https://admissions.purdue.edu/majors/motorsports-engineering
I don't know where you are located, so I can't point you towards specific summer programs, but I left a few links to programs for high-school students below.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
520
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Math and physics are key in engineering, so keep building those skills. You're already good at CAD, so try self-guided projects with free tools like Fusion 360 or SolidWorks. Start learning Python or MATLAB with resources like Khan Academy or Codecademy. Create a portfolio to show your projects and join STEM clubs for more experience.
For inspiration, check out YouTube channels like Lars Christensen for CAD, Engineering Explained, and Learn Engineering. Use online learning sites like MIT OpenCourseWare and Coursera. Read books like The Art of Racing in the Rain and Race Car Vehicle Dynamics. Get hands-on experience with programs like FIRST Robotics or VEX Robotics. Connect with others in the field through SAE International, ASME, GrabCAD, or the Reddit forum r/EngineeringStudents.
For inspiration, check out YouTube channels like Lars Christensen for CAD, Engineering Explained, and Learn Engineering. Use online learning sites like MIT OpenCourseWare and Coursera. Read books like The Art of Racing in the Rain and Race Car Vehicle Dynamics. Get hands-on experience with programs like FIRST Robotics or VEX Robotics. Connect with others in the field through SAE International, ASME, GrabCAD, or the Reddit forum r/EngineeringStudents.
Phill Pezo
Industrial Design
103
Answers
Nutley, New Jersey
Updated
Phill’s Answer
Hey Ava,
It is great to hear that you are considering an engineering major for your studies. It is also great to hear that you are looking to do something you are passionate about. This is very important and doing something you love will make work feel like it is not work. It sounds like you have also had a great head start with all your current accomplishments and skills. It is completely realistic for you to study engineering within motorsports. If this is something you want to do, put all your motivation into it knowing that nothing is impossible.
With which ever major you decide, be sure to do extensive research on the school you attend. What schools do the current motorsports engineers go to? What does each school offer? What are the financial obligations? It is important to consider all things when choosing a school. It is also a good idea to reach out to a student or staff member. If you talk to someone who is a current student you can get an idea of the school If you talk to a staff member, you can get an idea of the set up of the program. You can also consider talking to a few alumni to see what opportunities they have had post graduation.
If this is the path you choose be sure to start to look for internships and apprenticeships early in your studies.
Best of luck on your journey!
It is great to hear that you are considering an engineering major for your studies. It is also great to hear that you are looking to do something you are passionate about. This is very important and doing something you love will make work feel like it is not work. It sounds like you have also had a great head start with all your current accomplishments and skills. It is completely realistic for you to study engineering within motorsports. If this is something you want to do, put all your motivation into it knowing that nothing is impossible.
With which ever major you decide, be sure to do extensive research on the school you attend. What schools do the current motorsports engineers go to? What does each school offer? What are the financial obligations? It is important to consider all things when choosing a school. It is also a good idea to reach out to a student or staff member. If you talk to someone who is a current student you can get an idea of the school If you talk to a staff member, you can get an idea of the set up of the program. You can also consider talking to a few alumni to see what opportunities they have had post graduation.
If this is the path you choose be sure to start to look for internships and apprenticeships early in your studies.
Best of luck on your journey!
Phill, thank you!
Ava
Brian Swain
Mechanical Engineer
63
Answers
Modesto, California
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Hi Ava,
You are certainly on the right track, and you are already academically further ahead than I was when I graduated high school. Studying Mechanical Engineering is certainly not unrealistic. As far as advice goes, I strongly recommend finding a copy of "Machinery's Handbook", any edition will work, ( and can be found for very reasonable prices on ebay). This book contains a tremendous amounts of information on design standards. As far AP physics goes, I don't think it matters which one you take. Pre-Calc will probably give you enough knowledge to handle any of the courses.
You are certainly on the right track, and you are already academically further ahead than I was when I graduated high school. Studying Mechanical Engineering is certainly not unrealistic. As far as advice goes, I strongly recommend finding a copy of "Machinery's Handbook", any edition will work, ( and can be found for very reasonable prices on ebay). This book contains a tremendous amounts of information on design standards. As far AP physics goes, I don't think it matters which one you take. Pre-Calc will probably give you enough knowledge to handle any of the courses.
Thank you! This is helpful
Ava
Holly Boudreau
Sales
37
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Holly’s Answer
Hello! You have plenty of time to grow your skills in the areas you need. Joining after-school clubs or going to young professional events and classes can really help you succeed. You can do it!
Thank you!
Ava
Erin Petrino
Software Engineer
1
Answer
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Erin’s Answer
Hi Ava,
It's fantastic that you're interested in engineering and have already thought about your career goals. AP Physics C is a wonderful way to get a head start and prepare for college-level engineering classes, even though it includes some calculus. I encourage you to talk to the teacher of that class to see if it's manageable for students without calculus experience—it probably is! Taking Calculus alongside AP Physics C would be a great idea too. Keep up the hard work, and good luck!
It's fantastic that you're interested in engineering and have already thought about your career goals. AP Physics C is a wonderful way to get a head start and prepare for college-level engineering classes, even though it includes some calculus. I encourage you to talk to the teacher of that class to see if it's manageable for students without calculus experience—it probably is! Taking Calculus alongside AP Physics C would be a great idea too. Keep up the hard work, and good luck!