Knowing you want to be an engineer is a significant first step, but there’s much more to do to ensure you prepare for engineering school. This career is notoriously challenging, so it’s essential to make sure you have the right skills and knowledge before you commit to becoming an engineer.
From taking the right classes in high school to getting involved in extracurricular activities, these are some ways you can prepare yourself for engineering school.
Math and Science Classes
To be an engineer, you must be strong in math and science. In high school, take plenty of classes in these subjects to prepare yourself for the demanding nature of engineering school.
Physics and calculus will be fundamental, so don’t skimp on these classes just because they’re difficult. The better prepared you are in math and science, the better chance you have of succeeding in engineering school.
Extracurricular Activities
In addition to taking suitable classes, it’s also essential to get involved in extracurricular activities that will help prepare you for engineering school. Robotics clubs, for example, can give you a taste of what it’s like to work with the types of machines you’ll be dealing with as an engineer.
You can also join a math or science club to further improve your skills in these areas. These extracurricular activities will not only help prepare you academically for engineering school but also give you a chance to meet other like-minded students.
Shadow an Engineer
One of the best ways to prepare for engineering school is to shadow an engineer. You’ll get a first-hand look at what engineers do daily and help you decide if this is the right career choice.
If you know someone who is an engineer, ask if you can shadow them for a day or two. Find out their daily schedule, how they write in their engineering notebooks, and what they enjoy and don’t enjoy about their job.
You’ll be able to see a realistic view of what to expect if you become an engineer.
Research Engineering Schools
Not all engineering schools are created equal. Some focus on specific areas of engineering, while others have a more general curriculum. You must research the different engineering schools out there to find one that’s a good fit for your interests and goals.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of schools, visit each one to get a feel for the campus and the student body. This decision can impact your career, so take your time and choose the right school.
Becoming an engineer is a challenging but rewarding process. You can set yourself up for success by taking the right classes in high school, getting involved in extracurricular activities, and shadowing an engineer.
You should also take the time to research different engineering schools to find one that’s the best fit for you. With the proper preparation, you’ll be ready to take on anything engineering school throws your way.