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Why did you decide to become a computer engineer, and what is the biggest thing that you can take away from the career?

I'm a high school senior who is deciding to pursue computer engineering because the mix of software and hardware plus hands-on experience really speaks to me. Plus, considering the future of technology and our society's increasing dependence on it, studying this field feels like striking while the iron's hot. I just wanted some extra depth on the subject so that I know exactly what I'm getting myself into!

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Clayton’s Answer

Selecting a career is a big decision. One must weigh the pros and cons of each field of study. Ask yourself, "Do I like to work with many people, or do I want focus on challenging tasks." For me, I wanted to become a biomedical engineer. I was interested in the human body, and I was interested in science and technology. As I began my studies at university, I enjoyed my computer classes so much that I changed my career choice computer engineering. One spends many years pursuing a career, so I recommend selecting a field that holds one's interest. While compensation is an important factor, it isn't the most important thing to consider.
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Sherry’s Answer

I chose computer engineering because I’ve always loved problem‑solving and I’m naturally curious about how things work.

Engineering gave me an endless supply of puzzles to break down and improve and it also offered broader, better opportunities to grow across roles, domains, and industries.

My biggest takeaway is that no two days are the same. You get real freedom to go wild in how you approach problems, experimenting with ideas, finding creative angles, and shaping solutions. That mix of variety and autonomy keeps the work energizing.
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Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer

As a college freshman in my first semester, I studied pre-engineering and explored fields including mechanical, civil, water, food, biomedical, chemical, and electrical engineering. Reflecting on each, I realized I am especially drawn to work involving mathematical modeling, problem-solving, and complex challenges. Considering my passions, potential, long-term goals, emerging technology trends, and future job opportunities helped me identify a path that aligns with my interests and aspirations.

The projects that truly inspired me, such as circuit design, automation, digital systems, and embedded systems, were all connected to the field of electrical and computer engineering. I chose ECE because it blends software and hardware while offering hands-on experience, allowing me to see ideas come to life through building circuits, programming microcontrollers, or designing integrated systems. Its versatility, from developing artificial intelligence systems to creating smart renewable energy solutions, combines creativity with analytical thinking and enables me to contribute to technologies with real-world impact.

Beyond the excitement of creating, I anticipate that the biggest lessons from a career in computer engineering will be solving complex problems, adapting to rapidly evolving technology, collaborating with diverse teams, and continuously learning while contributing to projects that make a real-world impact. Ultimately, what excites me most is the opportunity to build things that work, learn continuously, and shape the future of technology. With these motivations, I confidently chose Electrical and Computer Engineering in my second semester as a freshman, knowing it aligns with both my passions and long-term goals.
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Tim’s Answer

I became a computer engineer due to my curious nature and wanting to create things to help others.

I wanted a career where I could be hands‑on, build real systems, and see the impact quickly.

In computing, small decisions—an algorithm, an architecture, a test—can change outcomes at scale and that mix of creativity and engineering drew me in.

It is problem‑solving with a purpose: It’s not just “making it work,” it’s making it reliable, secure, and understandable to others. Turning constraints into elegant solutions is deeply satisfying to me.

I have found that my best work happens with diverse teammates. Communicating trade‑offs, listening to users, and collaborating across roles matters as much as any programming language.

My biggest takeaway is to focus on three compounding skills:

Fundamentals: computing / OS, networking, data structures / storage and security. These never go out of style.

Systems Thinking: See the whole picture or pipeline—design, build, test, deploy, observe, improve.

Adaptability: New technologies and tools are constant; build a repeatable way to learn fast and responsibly.

Career durability: If you keep learning and growing and experiencing new technologies, the IT field will continue to reward you.

Your attitude, experiences and habits are your most valuable assets not only in your professional career but in your personal life as well.

I have been in the IT industry for over 35+-years and it has been a great career path and very rewarding and I would highly recommend it.

Good Luck!
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