What is the best way to figure out which kind of engineering to go into?

Elizabeth,

Most engineering schools have you enroll into a freshman program to take the basics and then you select your specific engineering program for your sophomore or junior year. It is great that you know you want to be an engineer, so you know what type of college you need. There are tests that can compare interests to engineering disciplines, the results are rarely a surprise.

I think the hard part is being aware of what each of the discipline do. I think the best approach is to network with your parents or parents of your friends or teachers to talk with people working in the field. Ask good questions like "What types of things do you do for work over the course of a year?" (most engineers do not have a standard daily routine). "What do you like and dislike about your job?" Don't be swayed by people who think it is their job to convince you that what they do is best for you, but look to see if what they do is what excites you.

If you like problem solving engineering is a great career. The first two years are basic courses that can apply to many fields of engineering. I was introduced to mechanics, chemistry, human factors, electrical etc in these basic cources. You will likely finds areas of Mott interest than others. I would stick with the basic Chemical, mechanical, electrical and civil to start with and progress into specialty areas such as automotive, aerospace etc. later.

Elizabeth:

It is quite common for a student to enter college with no firm idea about what to Major in. This was certainly the case for me. I did not decide upon a specific major until my last Quarter of my Sophomore Year.

I suggest that you take introductory courses in several engineering branches during your lower division years. These will usually also count for credit in the major you eventually choose. Hopefully you will find a branch of engineering that really appeals to you and that will be your Major.

Good luck, Pete Sturtevant

Look for a school that offers a delayed decision. Many schools offer general engineering courses for the first 2-3 semesters. During that time, they will introduce you to the various disciples and then you decide in your sophomore year. There's less pressure that way to decide up front when you aren't familiar with the differences.

Many schools also offer tours of their engineering colleges. I was a recruiter in college and we showed the labs for the various disciplines and shared examples of what made each program unique.

Also, remember, you don't have to get it right the first time. Good luck!