4 answers
Brody
Student
Anaconda, Montana
1
Question
Updated
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What is the most challenging part about becoming an engineer? What strategies do you suggest to overcome this difficulty?
#engineering #study tips #Fall2025
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4 answers
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
517
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
I think the most challenging aspect of becoming an engineer is solving complex problems effectively. But with the right approach, you can master this skill. Start by strengthening your basics in math and physics. Then, put what you learn into action through projects, experiments, or internships. These real-world experiences help you see how theory turns into practical solutions.
To solve difficult problems, you need a good understanding, critical thinking, persistence, and flexibility. Practice on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, Codeforces, or Project Euler to boost your logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Break problems into smaller, manageable parts, try different methods, and practice simplifying and estimating. Learn from mistakes and use them to improve. Stay curious, ready to learn, and open to rethinking your solutions if needed.
Also, seek guidance from experienced engineers, keep up with industry tools and trends, and work with others to gain new insights. With regular practice and these strategies, you'll become much better at solving complex problems.
To solve difficult problems, you need a good understanding, critical thinking, persistence, and flexibility. Practice on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, Codeforces, or Project Euler to boost your logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Break problems into smaller, manageable parts, try different methods, and practice simplifying and estimating. Learn from mistakes and use them to improve. Stay curious, ready to learn, and open to rethinking your solutions if needed.
Also, seek guidance from experienced engineers, keep up with industry tools and trends, and work with others to gain new insights. With regular practice and these strategies, you'll become much better at solving complex problems.
Nicole Baillie
Data Analyst
505
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Hi Brody. Thanks for this thoughtful question.
One of the challenging things that I experienced in getting my engineering degree was staying focused when some of my courses became difficult. I took many more courses in Calculus than I expected to take...but I found a way.
To get over that hump, I exposed myself to and thus was able to think about, what my world would look like once I completed my degree. That vision for myself was a huge motivator. Thankfully I haven't had to think about Calculus IV in a while :). But I have had a blast in participating in awesome projects at awesome companies since having graduated.
I also agree with the previous reply provided. Having a strong interest in what you do will make you successful whether that is as a problem-solver in engineering or as a chef in a scratch kitchen. There is no substitute, in my view, for loving what you do.
I do hope you find this advice helpful. Best to you.
One of the challenging things that I experienced in getting my engineering degree was staying focused when some of my courses became difficult. I took many more courses in Calculus than I expected to take...but I found a way.
To get over that hump, I exposed myself to and thus was able to think about, what my world would look like once I completed my degree. That vision for myself was a huge motivator. Thankfully I haven't had to think about Calculus IV in a while :). But I have had a blast in participating in awesome projects at awesome companies since having graduated.
I also agree with the previous reply provided. Having a strong interest in what you do will make you successful whether that is as a problem-solver in engineering or as a chef in a scratch kitchen. There is no substitute, in my view, for loving what you do.
I do hope you find this advice helpful. Best to you.
Indrani Mandal
Software Technology Consultant
12
Answers
Uithoorn, North Holland, Netherlands
Updated
Indrani’s Answer
Hi Brody,
If you're thinking about engineering, it's important to know that Mathematics and Physics are key subjects. It's really helpful to have a strong understanding and interest in these areas. Ask yourself: Do you like solving math problems? Do Physics ideas make you curious?
But remember, it's not just about academics. Think about what you enjoy outside of school. Are you interested in car mechanics, machinery, or hands-on projects, doing lego? Do you like practical labs at school which really makes your understanding concrete? Engineering is about using what you learn in real-world situations, not just studying concepts. Wishing you the best !
If you're thinking about engineering, it's important to know that Mathematics and Physics are key subjects. It's really helpful to have a strong understanding and interest in these areas. Ask yourself: Do you like solving math problems? Do Physics ideas make you curious?
But remember, it's not just about academics. Think about what you enjoy outside of school. Are you interested in car mechanics, machinery, or hands-on projects, doing lego? Do you like practical labs at school which really makes your understanding concrete? Engineering is about using what you learn in real-world situations, not just studying concepts. Wishing you the best !
William Vvuko
Retired engineer
150
Answers
Moyo, Northern Region
Updated
William’s Answer
Hi Brody,
This is an excellent question.
We are generally good at different things. Some of us are fairly slow learners, others exceptional at learning. Most of us fall between the two boundary conditions. This, however, takes nothing away from our ability to succeed once we have the required potential.
During our studies, it's important for us to excel in areas where we are gifted. It's good practice to spend more time in areas where we are less gifted to maintain good grades without compromising other results. Deep understanding of concepts and principles of what we learn is very helpful. Learning from first principles empowers us in this regard.
Internships and mentorships improve our learning curves as they provide opportunities for applying theoretical knowledge. We also pick practical skills in planning, scheduling & execution of work; problem solving, critical analysis, teamwork, communication and leadership during these engagements.
Engineering courses are generally quite involving. Developing the right work ethic is essential. The following personal qualities positively influence our work ethic: passion, commitment, diligence, positive attitude, attention to detail, perseverance, willingnesss to take risks, empathy, self-control, self-esteem, objectivity etc.
These soft and social competencies are extremely useful once you move into the field of practice. Picking them at an early stage gives you a competitive edge.
This is an excellent question.
We are generally good at different things. Some of us are fairly slow learners, others exceptional at learning. Most of us fall between the two boundary conditions. This, however, takes nothing away from our ability to succeed once we have the required potential.
During our studies, it's important for us to excel in areas where we are gifted. It's good practice to spend more time in areas where we are less gifted to maintain good grades without compromising other results. Deep understanding of concepts and principles of what we learn is very helpful. Learning from first principles empowers us in this regard.
Internships and mentorships improve our learning curves as they provide opportunities for applying theoretical knowledge. We also pick practical skills in planning, scheduling & execution of work; problem solving, critical analysis, teamwork, communication and leadership during these engagements.
Engineering courses are generally quite involving. Developing the right work ethic is essential. The following personal qualities positively influence our work ethic: passion, commitment, diligence, positive attitude, attention to detail, perseverance, willingnesss to take risks, empathy, self-control, self-esteem, objectivity etc.
These soft and social competencies are extremely useful once you move into the field of practice. Picking them at an early stage gives you a competitive edge.