What are engineering classes like in college?

Imagine your hardest High School class. Lots of homework, answers hidden within lesson notes, etc... College Engineering courses are nothing like this at all. Lectures typically contain about half of the required information to solve problems. The other half comes from text books , textbook examples, and peer work. Unlike high school, expect 3-6 larger 'engineering problems' to solve instead of 30+ busy-work problems. College engineering tests are much more intense, requiring a deeper understanding of the content, as opposed to high-school, understanding the problem. Expect to study 4-6 hours per exam. Also - partial credit is always your friend. Never go into a test blind. In general, plan on doing homework/studying 8am-9pm Monday-Friday. If you establish good weekday study habits, you can then enjoy your weekends without worry.

My older son (43 years-old) is a civil engineer. If you are considering engineering, the reality is you need to be proficient in advanced math. You should be at the level of Calculus (AP AB/BC or equivalent) by your senior year; colleges will be expecting to see the courses on your transcript. Other expected HS courses are physics and chemistry. Multivariable calculus should be pursued if available.

When you get to college, you will continue taking math, physics, and chemistry. Initially, you will be taking other courses; such as English, humanities, etc., that will also be required for non-engineering majors to graduate. However, as with other majors, and you continue through your program (soph/jr/sr years), more emphasis will be on the required curriculum of your designated major that will include, in your case, predominantly engineering courses.

You should visit "Try Engineering .Org" and get many of your questions answered. It's an excellent resource.

Hope this helps!