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Do I switch my major?????
I am currently a Mechanical engineering student, but I am dreading the rest of my classes. I love the design and problem solving, but hate the math/physics/theory side of things. Do I just push through the rest of my classes, or is mechanical engineering not for me?
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Wong’s Answer
Hi Allison. Since you enjoy design and problem solving but dislike the heavy math, physics, and theory side of mechanical engineering, it might be worth taking some time to reflect on what you truly want from your education and career.
Mechanical engineering is a demanding major that relies heavily on technical courses. However, those skills are what give you the foundation to design, build, and understand how things work. If you can see yourself using these skills in a hands-on or creative way later, such as in product design, manufacturing, or robotics, it might be worth pushing through. The difficult classes will pass, and you'll still come out with a strong, versatile degree that opens many doors.
On the other hand, if the core subjects make you miserable and you can't imagine working in an engineering-related field, it might be time to explore other options. Majors like industrial design, product design, or even engineering technology might better match your interests in creativity and problem solving without as much advanced math or physics. You could talk to your academic advisor or career counselor about switching paths or combining majors and minors to create a better fit.
Before making a final decision, you can talk with professionals or alumni who work in both engineering and design-related roles. Ask them about what their day-to-day work looks like and what skills they actually use. This can help you see whether you'd enjoy the end goal enough to handle the difficult classes, or whether a change would make you happier in the long run.
Mechanical engineering is a demanding major that relies heavily on technical courses. However, those skills are what give you the foundation to design, build, and understand how things work. If you can see yourself using these skills in a hands-on or creative way later, such as in product design, manufacturing, or robotics, it might be worth pushing through. The difficult classes will pass, and you'll still come out with a strong, versatile degree that opens many doors.
On the other hand, if the core subjects make you miserable and you can't imagine working in an engineering-related field, it might be time to explore other options. Majors like industrial design, product design, or even engineering technology might better match your interests in creativity and problem solving without as much advanced math or physics. You could talk to your academic advisor or career counselor about switching paths or combining majors and minors to create a better fit.
Before making a final decision, you can talk with professionals or alumni who work in both engineering and design-related roles. Ask them about what their day-to-day work looks like and what skills they actually use. This can help you see whether you'd enjoy the end goal enough to handle the difficult classes, or whether a change would make you happier in the long run.
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Matt’s Answer
I’ve been a mechanical engineer for 25 years it will open doors well beyond math or physics opportunities. That said, my recommendation is the first consider how far along you are in the process and if you are having difficulty with the content or just don’t like it. If you are well into the program and can manage the content, I would say without a doubt: do not quit.
There is a reason it is a prized degree, and that is in part exactly because it is difficult to obtain. On the other hand, if you are only a semester or two into the program and you really aren’t interested in any of the physics, (at least one of machine design, fluidic flow, Newton’s laws, kinematics, or thermodynamics) then you may want to consider transferring into areas where the underlying concepts put a fire in your belly.
Good luck.
There is a reason it is a prized degree, and that is in part exactly because it is difficult to obtain. On the other hand, if you are only a semester or two into the program and you really aren’t interested in any of the physics, (at least one of machine design, fluidic flow, Newton’s laws, kinematics, or thermodynamics) then you may want to consider transferring into areas where the underlying concepts put a fire in your belly.
Good luck.
Fahad Elahi Khan
Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate
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Fahad Elahi’s Answer
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially when classes seem draining. Mechanical engineering involves a lot of math and physics, but remember, many engineers find they don't use complex calculus daily. Instead, they apply the principles to solve real-world problems, often using software tools.
If you love design and problem-solving, there are other paths you might consider. Mechanical engineering technology offers a more hands-on approach, focusing on practical applications without as much heavy theory. You could also explore industrial or product design, which emphasizes creativity and problem-solving without as much focus on math and physics. These fields can lead to exciting careers in areas like prototyping or user-centered design.
Think about what excites you most and talk to your academic advisor or career center. They can help you explore options and see if any credits might transfer if you decide to switch paths. Trying an internship in mechanical engineering could also give you a better sense of the work and help you decide if it's the right fit. Keep going; figuring this out now is a smart move for your future.
If you love design and problem-solving, there are other paths you might consider. Mechanical engineering technology offers a more hands-on approach, focusing on practical applications without as much heavy theory. You could also explore industrial or product design, which emphasizes creativity and problem-solving without as much focus on math and physics. These fields can lead to exciting careers in areas like prototyping or user-centered design.
Think about what excites you most and talk to your academic advisor or career center. They can help you explore options and see if any credits might transfer if you decide to switch paths. Trying an internship in mechanical engineering could also give you a better sense of the work and help you decide if it's the right fit. Keep going; figuring this out now is a smart move for your future.
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Annette’s Answer
You don’t need to enjoy every class to make your degree worth it. Lots of engineers aren’t fans of theory, but they still succeed by focusing on design, building things, or leading teams. Think of your degree as a steppingstone, not something that locks you in forever.
You love design and problem solving which are the heart of engineering creativity — ideating, prototyping, iterating. If you thrive in CAD modeling, brainstorming solutions, or building things that work, that’s a strong signal that you’re aligned with the application side of engineering.
You do not enjoy Math, Physics, Theory and that is ok. Not everyone enjoys the theoretical side. The good news is that when you go to the real world of engineering, i.e. in design, manufacturing and product development, you will learn more on practical application than on solving equations.
Think of math/physics as tools, not passions. Learn just enough to get through, and focus your energy on design projects, internships, and electives that align with your interests.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. If mechanical engineering doesn’t feel like the right fit, you might explore related majors like industrial design, engineering technology, or product design. These areas focus more on creativity and practical work, with less emphasis on heavy theory.
You love design and problem solving which are the heart of engineering creativity — ideating, prototyping, iterating. If you thrive in CAD modeling, brainstorming solutions, or building things that work, that’s a strong signal that you’re aligned with the application side of engineering.
You do not enjoy Math, Physics, Theory and that is ok. Not everyone enjoys the theoretical side. The good news is that when you go to the real world of engineering, i.e. in design, manufacturing and product development, you will learn more on practical application than on solving equations.
Think of math/physics as tools, not passions. Learn just enough to get through, and focus your energy on design projects, internships, and electives that align with your interests.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. If mechanical engineering doesn’t feel like the right fit, you might explore related majors like industrial design, engineering technology, or product design. These areas focus more on creativity and practical work, with less emphasis on heavy theory.
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William’s Answer
Hi Allison,
Your dilemma is understandable. How hard or easy the course is, may not be a conclusive criterion for choosing a major. What you are able to do with this qualification is a wiser approach to choosing a major. As you may be aware, engineering is about offering solutions to many of the challenges we face as a society. To be honest, making a real difference in life is never easy. Your current huddle is perhaps one of many that you have to face over a life time. There are many things to consider when choosing a career. Ability, obviously, is one of them. It's always important to focus on realizing your full potential. This may require focusing more on your areas of weakness in order to achieve all round performance. Understanding things from first principles will serve you pretty well. Deep understanding of principles and concepts will make it a lot easier for you to figure out how to apply them. Additionally, loving what you do is important as it draws the best out of you. Interest and curiosity are crucial too, as they facilitate learning. Seeking support and advice from your professors and lecturers provides another opportunity for continuous improvement. At the end of the day, however, you will have to take full control of your progress towards a professional qualification.
Your dilemma is understandable. How hard or easy the course is, may not be a conclusive criterion for choosing a major. What you are able to do with this qualification is a wiser approach to choosing a major. As you may be aware, engineering is about offering solutions to many of the challenges we face as a society. To be honest, making a real difference in life is never easy. Your current huddle is perhaps one of many that you have to face over a life time. There are many things to consider when choosing a career. Ability, obviously, is one of them. It's always important to focus on realizing your full potential. This may require focusing more on your areas of weakness in order to achieve all round performance. Understanding things from first principles will serve you pretty well. Deep understanding of principles and concepts will make it a lot easier for you to figure out how to apply them. Additionally, loving what you do is important as it draws the best out of you. Interest and curiosity are crucial too, as they facilitate learning. Seeking support and advice from your professors and lecturers provides another opportunity for continuous improvement. At the end of the day, however, you will have to take full control of your progress towards a professional qualification.
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Jack’s Answer
I'm a current third-year mechE student at michigan. I happen to enjoy the math/physics/theory. I find that most of my friends/peers do as well, but there are definitely a few that don't, and they happen to be some of the most advanced in design knowledge + hand-on and most sought after by recruiters because of their real project experience. I'd say get involved with an engineering project team at your school like a racing team and see if the work that they do excites you. If it does, it's worth pushing through, real jobs will be similar to that. If not, then maybe switch. It also depends if you're really struggling to pass your classes or miserable or if you think you can get through. Many other fields value an engineering degree, you learn how to grind, so there's definitely a reason to get that degree even if you don't want to work in engineering. Engineering is hard and there are many other career opportunities, so definitely try to get the project team experience if you haven't already to see if you have the passion.
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Sreedhar’s Answer
Hi Allison,
Simple answer: "Push through the rest of your classes". Maybe you are thinking: "Easy for you to say." But I will say that the degree is worth pushing through. It may be difficult to be a straight A student or even a straight B student sometimes. In the commercial world, you will not be able to perfect every design or solve every problem to your 100% satisfaction because of various constraints (time, money, family demands, team members not being on the same page, etc.).
Remember that in 99% of posted jobs, employers just want to check if you graduated - not your GPA.
Good luck!
Sreedhar
Simple answer: "Push through the rest of your classes". Maybe you are thinking: "Easy for you to say." But I will say that the degree is worth pushing through. It may be difficult to be a straight A student or even a straight B student sometimes. In the commercial world, you will not be able to perfect every design or solve every problem to your 100% satisfaction because of various constraints (time, money, family demands, team members not being on the same page, etc.).
Remember that in 99% of posted jobs, employers just want to check if you graduated - not your GPA.
Good luck!
Sreedhar
Updated
Prem kumar’s Answer
Good Day...!!!,
Engineering is a Field where it touch the basics of its core branches a little bit. when u get into a job u dont work in all those, but they are necessary to understand the problem-statement , and to bring the solutions in a holistic manner.
its not like u have to Ace all the subjects, Focus more on our faviourite Subjects but never neglect other, just spend, time and energy how much it required for your credits when not interested in it.
Always be positive, Focus on Practicals so that the different subjects usage u will encounter and without knowingly you will feel all are important. and u will spend time based on the project that offers.
Engineering is just a tool that makes u ready to grab opportunities outside th world, Not all people work in the same field what they study or did past experience, be ready to grab to opportunities,
Be Confident, critical thinking and Positive.
Wish you all the Best...
Engineering is a Field where it touch the basics of its core branches a little bit. when u get into a job u dont work in all those, but they are necessary to understand the problem-statement , and to bring the solutions in a holistic manner.
its not like u have to Ace all the subjects, Focus more on our faviourite Subjects but never neglect other, just spend, time and energy how much it required for your credits when not interested in it.
Always be positive, Focus on Practicals so that the different subjects usage u will encounter and without knowingly you will feel all are important. and u will spend time based on the project that offers.
Engineering is just a tool that makes u ready to grab opportunities outside th world, Not all people work in the same field what they study or did past experience, be ready to grab to opportunities,
Be Confident, critical thinking and Positive.
Wish you all the Best...
Updated
Ștefan’s Answer
May you prefer more the Mechanical part than the Engineering part. That is, maybe you are more hands-on orientated.
In that case I advise to look towards a vocational school (alternatively known as a trade school, or technical school).
"is mechanical engineering not for me?"
This is a great question!
Why did you go to that school in the first place?
Did you want to get a certain job, and you need a certain degree?
Did you want to build something in particular, and you need to acquire certain knowledge first?
Does your end-goal still stand? Are there other options to get there?
Btw if you learn by example or by experimenting hands-on sometimes all you need is some YouTube tutorials :))
My best software engineer in my team skipped any high-level education. He just learned by studying by himself books and tutorials on the Internet.
On the other hand, just like you, I hate theory. I prefer building stuff. But I endured 5 years of Computer Science school because it's better to have a high-level degree and some general basic than to compete with those who have a piece of paper and that general knowledge.
Another advantage of going to that school is networking that is meeting people with whom you can make a team.
If you love the design and problem solving maybe, you can find there someone who preferers the math/physics/theory side of things.
Another approach to your question is to consult with someone who already achieved what you want to achieve and ask them whether a Mechanical Engineering school helped them get there. Also, maybe you can find out how to handle those difficult parts.
In that case I advise to look towards a vocational school (alternatively known as a trade school, or technical school).
"is mechanical engineering not for me?"
This is a great question!
Why did you go to that school in the first place?
Did you want to get a certain job, and you need a certain degree?
Did you want to build something in particular, and you need to acquire certain knowledge first?
Does your end-goal still stand? Are there other options to get there?
Btw if you learn by example or by experimenting hands-on sometimes all you need is some YouTube tutorials :))
My best software engineer in my team skipped any high-level education. He just learned by studying by himself books and tutorials on the Internet.
On the other hand, just like you, I hate theory. I prefer building stuff. But I endured 5 years of Computer Science school because it's better to have a high-level degree and some general basic than to compete with those who have a piece of paper and that general knowledge.
Another advantage of going to that school is networking that is meeting people with whom you can make a team.
If you love the design and problem solving maybe, you can find there someone who preferers the math/physics/theory side of things.
Another approach to your question is to consult with someone who already achieved what you want to achieve and ask them whether a Mechanical Engineering school helped them get there. Also, maybe you can find out how to handle those difficult parts.
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Diane’s Answer
Most science-based degrees have a myriad of applications in the professional world. I think you are only human if you have a little apprehension about the most intense section of your education, but I encourage you to finish and find professional venues that exercise your problem solving and design skills. What about the mechanical engineer who designed a luggage closure to protect what you travel with while making it easier for the TSA to examine contents when needed? There is no limit to what you can apply that achievement to in order to excel in a career you love. Good Luck!
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Brian’s Answer
Hi Allison,
In my experience, the vast majority of the work you're likely to do as a Mechanical Engineer is light on theory and heavy on problem solving/designing. That being said, you still have to get through your major.
In my experience, the vast majority of the work you're likely to do as a Mechanical Engineer is light on theory and heavy on problem solving/designing. That being said, you still have to get through your major.
Updated
Lydia’s Answer
Hi Allison!
The first thing I'd like to say is: You are not alone! In addition to your current support system, you have this platform to encourage and reassure you. Be proud of what you have already accomplished as you continue your college journey. Know that you can and will continue to succeed.
I agree with all of the responses thus far and would concur with seeking feedback from your academic & college advisors as well as people you may know in the industry. Life includes challenges, which can come in the way of a math/physics/theory class, however pressing forward will yield multiple advantages and contribute to your overall personal growth. You may find new ways of understanding the subjects or correlation to real world work. It may also be a good idea to add on classes as a potential minor so you can use your current time and efforts for a similar degree where you may still remain in the engineering arena.
Best wishes to you as you navigate an interesting decision for your future!
The first thing I'd like to say is: You are not alone! In addition to your current support system, you have this platform to encourage and reassure you. Be proud of what you have already accomplished as you continue your college journey. Know that you can and will continue to succeed.
I agree with all of the responses thus far and would concur with seeking feedback from your academic & college advisors as well as people you may know in the industry. Life includes challenges, which can come in the way of a math/physics/theory class, however pressing forward will yield multiple advantages and contribute to your overall personal growth. You may find new ways of understanding the subjects or correlation to real world work. It may also be a good idea to add on classes as a potential minor so you can use your current time and efforts for a similar degree where you may still remain in the engineering arena.
Best wishes to you as you navigate an interesting decision for your future!
Updated
Taylen’s Answer
Allison, since you enjoy design and problem-solving but aren't a fan of the math, physics, and theory parts, you might want to think about switching to an Architecture major. Some of the classes you've taken in Mechanical Engineering could count towards this. Architecture focuses more on design and problem-solving without leaning too much on math and physics.
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Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Allison !
I am almost confident that you probably already know if you will switch Majors from your current Mechanical Engineering to something you like. I appreciate that you've come here with your insight and perhaps a bit of validation may help. Deep in your mind and heart, you know the answer to this question and will have to make the decision.
Life is filled with showing us where our many niches are. I am a firm believer in not forcing things and being aware of what is felt and perceived as we go through our many paths. Your experience with mechanical engineering courses and the resulting clear signs you are getting about it may be important to pay attention to as something you like may be waiting for you. Go with your instincts and explore better options.
I would advise that you complete the courses that you have this semester as they are already paid for and you probably have only two or three months left in the semester. As you complete your courses, fastidiously explore a different Major if that's where you feel moved to. You're going to have to have your degree in a subject for the career you want, so think about different careers and align your new major to that. People switch majors all the time. When I was in college, a friend of mine changed her major like three or four times. You should speak with your Academic Counselor to obtain reassurance about the process.
Start exploring other careers that involve design and problem solving. Once you are settled on a specific career, align a Major with it and read the major's program courses to see if you'd like it. You can usually find the description of various major programs on the college's website and a list of the courses involved in that major. (My question is, do colleges still print hard copy catalogs in addition to having a website?) Keep in mind that many major subjects do include theory or math, but if you're really interested in the career and major, you'll ride through it. The reward is great in the end.
So, my advice is always be true to yourself in this and in everything in life. Know that you have a choice and make the decision based on what you think will be best for you now and for your future. I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
I am almost confident that you probably already know if you will switch Majors from your current Mechanical Engineering to something you like. I appreciate that you've come here with your insight and perhaps a bit of validation may help. Deep in your mind and heart, you know the answer to this question and will have to make the decision.
Life is filled with showing us where our many niches are. I am a firm believer in not forcing things and being aware of what is felt and perceived as we go through our many paths. Your experience with mechanical engineering courses and the resulting clear signs you are getting about it may be important to pay attention to as something you like may be waiting for you. Go with your instincts and explore better options.
I would advise that you complete the courses that you have this semester as they are already paid for and you probably have only two or three months left in the semester. As you complete your courses, fastidiously explore a different Major if that's where you feel moved to. You're going to have to have your degree in a subject for the career you want, so think about different careers and align your new major to that. People switch majors all the time. When I was in college, a friend of mine changed her major like three or four times. You should speak with your Academic Counselor to obtain reassurance about the process.
Start exploring other careers that involve design and problem solving. Once you are settled on a specific career, align a Major with it and read the major's program courses to see if you'd like it. You can usually find the description of various major programs on the college's website and a list of the courses involved in that major. (My question is, do colleges still print hard copy catalogs in addition to having a website?) Keep in mind that many major subjects do include theory or math, but if you're really interested in the career and major, you'll ride through it. The reward is great in the end.
So, my advice is always be true to yourself in this and in everything in life. Know that you have a choice and make the decision based on what you think will be best for you now and for your future. I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !