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As a future civil engineering student, what things should i prioritize or focus on the most in college (Grades, Internships, hands on projects) in order to be successful in the future after graduating? Which would have the longest term impact on careers and what did you wish you focused on more in school?
I am a high school senior and I want to study and go into civil engineering, I know there are a lot of specialties in the field so I'm excited to learn more about them. I've shadowed a civil engineer which helped me understand the job more and made me more curious about the projects they work on.
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Bereket (Bek)’s Answer
Hi Daniel!
I began with an engineering degree too and later earned an M.Sc. in Civil & Environmental Engineering. If you love this field, think about whether you want to focus on teaching and research or jump into industry work. This decision will shape your career journey. I've met amazing civil engineers who learned from hands-on experience without a degree. If you choose to work in the field, formal training will help you grasp the theories, and real-world experience will make those ideas clearer and more practical.
I began with an engineering degree too and later earned an M.Sc. in Civil & Environmental Engineering. If you love this field, think about whether you want to focus on teaching and research or jump into industry work. This decision will shape your career journey. I've met amazing civil engineers who learned from hands-on experience without a degree. If you choose to work in the field, formal training will help you grasp the theories, and real-world experience will make those ideas clearer and more practical.
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Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Grades, internships, and hands-on projects are all important. Good grades help you get internships and opportunities, while hands-on projects and internships give you real-world experience, improve teamwork, boost problem-solving skills, and help you explain technical ideas in interviews. Start by focusing on strong basics and keeping good grades, while also learning skills like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Revit, Excel, GIS, BIM concepts, and technical writing.
Once you have a solid base, work on hands-on projects to apply what you know. Then, seek internships and site experiences, as these greatly influence your career path and job prospects. Next, network with professors and engineers, build a portfolio, prepare for the FE exam, and learn about cost awareness, engineering economics, reading drawings and specifications, and connecting design to real construction methods. Be ready for both office and field roles or relocation. Stay proactive by asking questions, taking initiative, and improving through feedback and real construction experiences. Long-term success also relies on understanding engineering ethics, public safety, effective time management under changing conditions, and developing leadership skills for future roles in coordination and project management.
Once you have a solid base, work on hands-on projects to apply what you know. Then, seek internships and site experiences, as these greatly influence your career path and job prospects. Next, network with professors and engineers, build a portfolio, prepare for the FE exam, and learn about cost awareness, engineering economics, reading drawings and specifications, and connecting design to real construction methods. Be ready for both office and field roles or relocation. Stay proactive by asking questions, taking initiative, and improving through feedback and real construction experiences. Long-term success also relies on understanding engineering ethics, public safety, effective time management under changing conditions, and developing leadership skills for future roles in coordination and project management.