13 answers
Lucas
Student
Montgomery, Illinois
1
Question
Updated
933 views
I am a freshman in college pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering. What is something engineering students think matters a lot, but really does not What is something they underestimate that ends up mattering more??
I got accepted into an engineering program recently and was wondering what to focus on as I go through this pathway to earn my engineering degree.
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13 answers
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Software Engineer and Career Mentor
677
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Engineering students often focus too much on memorizing formulas and getting perfect grades. However, true progress comes from understanding the basics and using a clear problem-solving approach—defining problems, choosing methods, and checking results. Communication, teamwork, and hands-on experience are often underestimated, along with learning tools like CAD and programming, working on projects, networking with teachers and classmates, and developing skills like writing.
Growth also depends on active learning, such as self-testing, reworking concepts, getting comfortable with uncertainty, staying curious about real-world systems, and building engineering judgment. Attention to detail and careful verification are essential because small mistakes can lead to major issues.
Time management, prioritization, and effectively using office hours and study groups are key to handling workload pressure. Over time, engineers also learn to judge whether results are reasonable before completing full calculations.
Growth also depends on active learning, such as self-testing, reworking concepts, getting comfortable with uncertainty, staying curious about real-world systems, and building engineering judgment. Attention to detail and careful verification are essential because small mistakes can lead to major issues.
Time management, prioritization, and effectively using office hours and study groups are key to handling workload pressure. Over time, engineers also learn to judge whether results are reasonable before completing full calculations.
John Reed
Business Development
1
Answer
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Updated
John’s Answer
I'm definitely not a mechanical engineer (ME) ; but will simply offer this advice.
Anything in Technical Fields, Engineering and the Practical Application of those ideas is always changing.
The WAY you approach problem solving is like math- there is always another way to tackle a problem, find a solution and bring something new to market.
It's not just an output on a screen; it is something that can truly impact the lives of people.
1. Communication matters more than students expect – The Industry consistently finds that ME graduates struggle to clearly explain their designs and decisions to non‑engineers and stakeholders, even though this skill strongly affects impact and career growth.
2. Project execution outweighs pure technical optimization – Real-world engineering success depends on managing timelines, risks, costs, and trade-offs, not just producing technically correct designs.
3. Most engineering problems are ambiguous – Unlike textbook problems, industry work involves incomplete data, changing requirements, and judgment calls; comfort with uncertainty is critical.
4. Engineering is inherently collaborative* – Mechanical engineers must work effectively across disciplines and organizations; the ability to align people often differentiates top performers more than raw technical skill.
1. Actively build communication skills outside core ME classes
Anything in Technical Fields, Engineering and the Practical Application of those ideas is always changing.
The WAY you approach problem solving is like math- there is always another way to tackle a problem, find a solution and bring something new to market.
It's not just an output on a screen; it is something that can truly impact the lives of people.
1. Communication matters more than students expect – The Industry consistently finds that ME graduates struggle to clearly explain their designs and decisions to non‑engineers and stakeholders, even though this skill strongly affects impact and career growth.
2. Project execution outweighs pure technical optimization – Real-world engineering success depends on managing timelines, risks, costs, and trade-offs, not just producing technically correct designs.
3. Most engineering problems are ambiguous – Unlike textbook problems, industry work involves incomplete data, changing requirements, and judgment calls; comfort with uncertainty is critical.
4. Engineering is inherently collaborative* – Mechanical engineers must work effectively across disciplines and organizations; the ability to align people often differentiates top performers more than raw technical skill.
John recommends the following next steps:
June Foster
Laboratory Tech Specialist
66
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
June’s Answer
Congratulations on getting accepted into your engineering program! While doing well academically is important, employers often care just as much about your hands-on experience, internships, engineering projects, leadership roles, and ability to work on a team. A student with a solid GPA and meaningful project experience is often more competitive than someone with a perfect GPA but little practical experience.
Something that’s often underestimated is networking. Getting to know your professors, attending career fairs, joining engineering organizations, and building relationships with classmates can lead to internships, research opportunities, and job offers. Many opportunities come through the people you meet, not just the grades you earn.
I’d also recommend developing strong communication skills. Engineers spend a lot of time writing reports, presenting ideas, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Being able to explain complex concepts clearly can set you apart throughout your career.
Finally, don’t wait until your junior or senior year to look for experience. Apply for internships, participate in design competitions, join project teams, or work in a research lab as early as possible.
Something that’s often underestimated is networking. Getting to know your professors, attending career fairs, joining engineering organizations, and building relationships with classmates can lead to internships, research opportunities, and job offers. Many opportunities come through the people you meet, not just the grades you earn.
I’d also recommend developing strong communication skills. Engineers spend a lot of time writing reports, presenting ideas, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Being able to explain complex concepts clearly can set you apart throughout your career.
Finally, don’t wait until your junior or senior year to look for experience. Apply for internships, participate in design competitions, join project teams, or work in a research lab as early as possible.
Gregory Hardy
Consulting
2
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
I graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering. One thing I think many tech students overlook is the importance of communication skills.
Josep Antonio Perez
Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer
17
Answers
Reno, Nevada
Updated
Josep Antonio ’s Answer
Hello Lucas,
As a college student, I would focus on developing the foundational skills required for your career, including but not limited to:
1. CAD (Computer-Aided Design) – 2D and 3D
2. Critical thinking
3. Problem-solving and hardware troubleshooting
4. Simulation tools for design verification and validation
5. Application of mechanical engineering concepts to design, such as mechanical design, thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and aerodynamics.
In addition, join clubs and organizations that align with these areas of interest. Be mindful of engineering economics as well, since cost and efficiency play a major role in real-world design.
Prepare yourself to compete for jobs and internships by developing practical skills and demonstrating the value you bring. This level of competition is often underestimated, but as you gain experience and refine your abilities, you will learn to adapt to the job market.
Lastly, remain open to opportunities outside your current location, as your area may not always offer the best options for your career growth.
Hope this helps!
Joseph
As a college student, I would focus on developing the foundational skills required for your career, including but not limited to:
1. CAD (Computer-Aided Design) – 2D and 3D
2. Critical thinking
3. Problem-solving and hardware troubleshooting
4. Simulation tools for design verification and validation
5. Application of mechanical engineering concepts to design, such as mechanical design, thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and aerodynamics.
In addition, join clubs and organizations that align with these areas of interest. Be mindful of engineering economics as well, since cost and efficiency play a major role in real-world design.
Prepare yourself to compete for jobs and internships by developing practical skills and demonstrating the value you bring. This level of competition is often underestimated, but as you gain experience and refine your abilities, you will learn to adapt to the job market.
Lastly, remain open to opportunities outside your current location, as your area may not always offer the best options for your career growth.
Hope this helps!
Joseph
William Vvuko
Retired engineer
240
Answers
Moyo, Northern Region
Updated
William’s Answer
Hi Lucas,
You raise a pertinent issue.
Your interest in and love for mechanical engineering is highly commendable. Engineering has always focused on meeting some of the pressing needs of humanity. The importance of knowledge lies in our ability to put it at the service of humanity by addressing their needs. Focusing on human needs impoves your chances of succeeding in your career.
A culture of excellence is an important work ethic. This means that you need to pursue your studies with distinction. Being your very best self each day contributes greatly to this.
Continuous improvement, irrespective of your current level of performance, is a critical requirement for excellence.
Practical knowledge, acquired from experience, makes us stand out. Every opportunity for internships, mentorships and apprenticeships must be fully utilized as they enable you learn through practice and experience.
Membership in professional bodies is equally important. This exposes you to professional ethics and standards, latest developments in your field of study and best practices.
There are skills that are critical for your success in your studies and at the place of work after your studies. They include the ability to plan, schedule & execute work; identify and solve problems; communicate effectively; work in teams; manage time effectively; organize; collate, analyze and critically evaluate information.
The values you cherishing not only shape your behavior but also your actions. The personality you develop, eventually, determines how well you fit into the team environment. Deliberately embedding the right personal qualities into your work ethic will serve you well. Passion, commitment, diligence, attention to detail, assertiveness, curiosity, perseverance, positive mindset, empathy, self-control, self-drive, willingnesss to take risks are all important as they greatly influence your ability to get things done.
You raise a pertinent issue.
Your interest in and love for mechanical engineering is highly commendable. Engineering has always focused on meeting some of the pressing needs of humanity. The importance of knowledge lies in our ability to put it at the service of humanity by addressing their needs. Focusing on human needs impoves your chances of succeeding in your career.
A culture of excellence is an important work ethic. This means that you need to pursue your studies with distinction. Being your very best self each day contributes greatly to this.
Continuous improvement, irrespective of your current level of performance, is a critical requirement for excellence.
Practical knowledge, acquired from experience, makes us stand out. Every opportunity for internships, mentorships and apprenticeships must be fully utilized as they enable you learn through practice and experience.
Membership in professional bodies is equally important. This exposes you to professional ethics and standards, latest developments in your field of study and best practices.
There are skills that are critical for your success in your studies and at the place of work after your studies. They include the ability to plan, schedule & execute work; identify and solve problems; communicate effectively; work in teams; manage time effectively; organize; collate, analyze and critically evaluate information.
The values you cherishing not only shape your behavior but also your actions. The personality you develop, eventually, determines how well you fit into the team environment. Deliberately embedding the right personal qualities into your work ethic will serve you well. Passion, commitment, diligence, attention to detail, assertiveness, curiosity, perseverance, positive mindset, empathy, self-control, self-drive, willingnesss to take risks are all important as they greatly influence your ability to get things done.
Emalee M
Technical Transformation Consultant
1
Answer
Arlington, Virginia
Updated
Emalee’s Answer
Definitely understand the concerns and pressures of studying for an Engineering degree. Students often get caught up in the micro level components of a class, which although important when studying and executing the class, may not be as transferrable or necessary in professional life. I found that I spent a lot of time stressing over formulas and trying to understand the material on my own without collaborating with peers or mentors. Now, entering the workforce, I have realized that often times I am working in a team and can bounce ideas off one another regularly.
On the contrary, I did not focus on soft skills while in school which, in my experience, is an underrated strength. Being able to articulate your ideas and enabling others to feel heard have been key for me in successful projects.
On the contrary, I did not focus on soft skills while in school which, in my experience, is an underrated strength. Being able to articulate your ideas and enabling others to feel heard have been key for me in successful projects.
Alice Robinson
Human Resources
3
Answers
Aurora, Ohio
Updated
Alice’s Answer
Congrats on getting into your engineering program! Here are some key skills to focus on for success in the real world:
1. Communication: Learn how to clearly explain problems and solutions to both engineers and non-engineers.
2. Collaboration and Relationships: Work on your ability to influence others, manage changes, communicate effectively, provide training, align with teams, and build trust.
3. Problem Solving: Develop the ability to take initiative, spot problems, evaluate different options, and implement solutions, as there won't be a textbook or syllabus to guide you.
Explore business influencing classes
Join a community project team that uses your engineering skills to solve real world problems
Find summer internships
Join a full-time rotation program after graduation to get exposure to different departments in a company early in your career
1. Communication: Learn how to clearly explain problems and solutions to both engineers and non-engineers.
2. Collaboration and Relationships: Work on your ability to influence others, manage changes, communicate effectively, provide training, align with teams, and build trust.
3. Problem Solving: Develop the ability to take initiative, spot problems, evaluate different options, and implement solutions, as there won't be a textbook or syllabus to guide you.
Alice recommends the following next steps:
Jamie Mathews
Construction and Engineering Administration
38
Answers
Fort Worth, Texas
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
Understanding engineering is important, but being able to explain your ideas clearly is even more crucial. In engineering, it's often necessary to simplify communication for those who aren't experts. As a telecommunications engineer, I try to avoid using complex terms when talking to contractors. They don't need detailed explanations filled with technical jargon. They just need to know what to do, like where to drill, how deep to go, and how much space to leave. If they have questions, they'll definitely ask. Avoid speaking in overly complex terms, which I call 'egg head syndrome,' where people pretend to understand but actually don't, they just tune out and nod along.
Arbaz Shaikh
Software Engineer
5
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Arbaz’s Answer
Congratulations on getting into Engineering! It's impressive that you're already thinking about what it means to be an engineer. Here are some key traits that define a great engineer:
1. Problem-Solving: Engineers tackle tough problems and come up with smart, safe solutions.
2. Strong STEM Skills: Knowing math and science well helps engineers understand and create designs.
3. Communication & Teamwork: Engineers need to explain ideas clearly and work well with others.
4. Technical Adaptability: Staying updated with new tools and technologies is important for success.
Keep these in mind as you start your journey. You have a bright future ahead!
1. Problem-Solving: Engineers tackle tough problems and come up with smart, safe solutions.
2. Strong STEM Skills: Knowing math and science well helps engineers understand and create designs.
3. Communication & Teamwork: Engineers need to explain ideas clearly and work well with others.
4. Technical Adaptability: Staying updated with new tools and technologies is important for success.
Keep these in mind as you start your journey. You have a bright future ahead!
Denise Vasquez Pursell
Recruiting
4
Answers
Burnet, Texas
Updated
Denise’s Answer
Hi Lucas,
I've hired people for roles that mix mechanical and electrical engineering. It's useful to have a broad knowledge base, so consider taking some programming courses. Some of the best engineers I've known had ME degrees and achieved great success. Keep your options open in college; you never know where your path might lead. Explore what you're passionate about, and don't hesitate to take classes outside of just ME.
I've hired people for roles that mix mechanical and electrical engineering. It's useful to have a broad knowledge base, so consider taking some programming courses. Some of the best engineers I've known had ME degrees and achieved great success. Keep your options open in college; you never know where your path might lead. Explore what you're passionate about, and don't hesitate to take classes outside of just ME.
Olga Rwemereza
Electrical Engineer
2
Answers
Arlington, Virginia
Updated
Olga’s Answer
When I was in engineering school, I thought getting a 4.0 GPA was the most important thing for landing a job. While good grades are important, I learned that employers also value skills like clear communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and completing projects. I encourage you to seek practical experiences, such as internships and joining engineering clubs or projects. These opportunities help you connect with people in the field and practice what you learn in class. Best of luck on your journey!
Landon DeLisio
Consultant
2
Answers
Fairfax, Virginia
Updated
Landon’s Answer
It's fantastic that you're asking these questions. For your second question, I want to emphasize something important that often gets overlooked: your "pre-engineering" courses, like core math and physics. These classes are the building blocks for your future engineering courses. Even if you're doing well in these intro classes, make sure to really understand them because they'll shape how you tackle more advanced engineering subjects.
As for your first question, it's worth repeating what others have said because it's crucial: communication and teamwork skills are incredibly valuable. These skills can take you further than a high GPA or research experience alone. Collaborating with others is essential for success. Also, be open to opportunities beyond mechanical engineering. Many engineering students find successful careers outside their specific field, and it's their willingness to tackle challenges that helps them succeed wherever they go.
As for your first question, it's worth repeating what others have said because it's crucial: communication and teamwork skills are incredibly valuable. These skills can take you further than a high GPA or research experience alone. Collaborating with others is essential for success. Also, be open to opportunities beyond mechanical engineering. Many engineering students find successful careers outside their specific field, and it's their willingness to tackle challenges that helps them succeed wherever they go.