What Engineering Students Should Know About Going to College

Valuable Resources for Engineering Students Preparing for College and Future Careers

As a high school student, it can be incredibly daunting to determine which major to pursue before beginning your college career. If engineering is an appealing option, there are a few factors you should consider before making your selection.

Engineering students can be described as analytical and creative, and they need to be team players. Students who thrive in engineering often do very well in math and science courses, enjoy problem-solving and learning in general, and are comfortable working on computers. Understanding the potential hurdles that may arise when studying engineering and the rewards of obtaining an engineering degree can help students determine if this field of study is right for them.

The Biggest Challenges for Engineering Majors

One of the most daunting concerns faced by engineering students is their course load. Not only does engineering often require more units than other fields of study, but the classes are often incredibly difficult. Examples of classes engineering majors will likely need to complete include:

• Prerequisites such as calculus, chemistry, physics, and computer programming.
• More specific courses depending on the track, such as thermodynamics for mechanical engineering, power systems for electrical engineering, and computer architecture for computer engineering.

Due to intense courses and a large amount of homework, engineering majors often struggle with time management, maintaining a social life, and pursuing extracurricular activities. Many engineering students seek help from tutors, study groups, and professors' office hours. Additionally, students who hope to obtain a degree in engineering will usually need to complete a four-year degree at a university, and they may need pay substantial money to attend school.

Reasons to Pursue a Degree in Engineering

When college students are determining the right academic path to pursue, choosing to study engineering can be incredibly appealing. While it poses many challenges, there are many benefits to earning an education in engineering and pursuing a career in that field.

Most students go to college to embark on a career that will provide them with growth, stability, and fulfillment. Pursuing a degree in engineering is a great way to make that outcome even more likely.

Engineering jobs are almost always in demand, and they often offer crucial job security, high salaries, and a wide variety of career options. Engineers can specialize in diverse fields, including civil, electrical, mechanical, chemical, or industrial engineering. Students who graduate with an engineering degree could pursue careers in design, project management, or research and development. More often than not, jobs in the engineering field are relatively high-paying, with opportunities for advancement and further earning potential.

Similar to the coursework itself, a career in engineering can be incredibly challenging and stimulating. It can foster immense personal growth, requiring creative problem-solving and initiative. Possibly even more importantly, a career in engineering can offer the opportunity to make a legitimate impact on people's daily lives while solving real-world problems. Engineers help to discover new sources of energy, implement advancements in healthcare, and pursue efficient ways to clean the environment.

Scholarships for Engineering Majors

No matter what major you choose, affording tuition for a four-year degree is no easy feat. While many engineering majors receive scholarships from their school of choice, it is rare for all academic expenses to be completely covered. At My College Companion, we know how much work it takes to earn a degree in engineering, and we hope to help students focus more on studying and less on paying for school.

Engineering majors are encouraged to apply for the Rosso Engineering Excellence Scholarship. This award is offered to undergraduate students with a 3.5 grade point average. Rosso Service dedicates this scholarship to the next generation of engineers.