8 answers
Kennedy
Student
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
3
Questions
Asked
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I am in my final year in High School, I want to read Mechanical engineering at the tertiary level, but, im always hunted with this thought, 'what if im not able to help in solving problems practically, like making a new engine for smtn, what if im not able to transfer the theories to reality rendering me worthless..' this thought is dimming my aspirations mentally, please help?
I am so confused about my next step
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8 answers
Nick Bartmon
Security Software Engineer
14
Answers
Redmond, Washington
Updated
Nick’s Answer
Hi Kennedy, you're not alone with this worry!
I once heard college/uni described as a place that teaches you how to learn. Regardless of how far you take your schooling, you leave school with a set of knowledge and some basic skills, but you will spend the rest of your life honing your skills and expanding that knowledge. As an engineer, you will learn more in your first year on the job than you will in 4 years at a college or uni, however you'll learn faster and more advanced things because of your education.
I once heard college/uni described as a place that teaches you how to learn. Regardless of how far you take your schooling, you leave school with a set of knowledge and some basic skills, but you will spend the rest of your life honing your skills and expanding that knowledge. As an engineer, you will learn more in your first year on the job than you will in 4 years at a college or uni, however you'll learn faster and more advanced things because of your education.
I really appreciate your help. Thanks
Kennedy
Jimil Burkhart
Software Engineer
97
Answers
Gilbert, Arizona
Updated
Jimil’s Answer
It's understandable that you might be feeling unsure or hesitant about pursuing a career in mechanical engineering, as it is a field that requires a great deal of knowledge and practical skills. However, it's important to remember that everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, and not everyone excels in every aspect of their chosen field.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Mechanical engineering is a broad field: Mechanical engineering covers a wide range of sub-disciplines, including design, manufacturing, thermal systems, materials science, and biomechanics. It's important to explore the various sub-disciplines to find the area that interests you the most and where you may excel.
Practice makes perfect: Like in any field, the more you practice and work on projects, the more you will develop your skills and gain confidence in your abilities. Remember that it takes time and effort to become proficient in any skill, and the same applies to mechanical engineering.
Teamwork: Many projects in Mechanical engineering require teamwork and collaboration, you will be working with people from different backgrounds and with different strengths, thus allowing you to learn from others and rely on others for support and help.
Professional Development: Consider pursuing internships or co-op opportunities while in college to gain real-world experience in the field and make connections in the industry. After graduation, actively look for entry-level positions that will give you hands-on experience in the industry and help you gain a better understanding of the field.
Keep learning: Keep up with new technology, tools, and industry trends. It's important to stay current in the field, as new technologies and methodologies are constantly emerging.
It's also important to understand that not every engineer work on the development of new engines, Mechanical engineering is a diverse field with many different types of jobs available, including design, research, testing, and analysis. It's important to remember that you don't have to be an expert in everything, but you can focus on developing your strengths and seeking out opportunities that align with your interests and abilities.
If you are still uncertain, it could be a good idea to talk to a guidance counselor, professors or professionals in the field, to gain a better understanding of the field and to help you make an informed decision.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Mechanical engineering is a broad field: Mechanical engineering covers a wide range of sub-disciplines, including design, manufacturing, thermal systems, materials science, and biomechanics. It's important to explore the various sub-disciplines to find the area that interests you the most and where you may excel.
Practice makes perfect: Like in any field, the more you practice and work on projects, the more you will develop your skills and gain confidence in your abilities. Remember that it takes time and effort to become proficient in any skill, and the same applies to mechanical engineering.
Teamwork: Many projects in Mechanical engineering require teamwork and collaboration, you will be working with people from different backgrounds and with different strengths, thus allowing you to learn from others and rely on others for support and help.
Professional Development: Consider pursuing internships or co-op opportunities while in college to gain real-world experience in the field and make connections in the industry. After graduation, actively look for entry-level positions that will give you hands-on experience in the industry and help you gain a better understanding of the field.
Keep learning: Keep up with new technology, tools, and industry trends. It's important to stay current in the field, as new technologies and methodologies are constantly emerging.
It's also important to understand that not every engineer work on the development of new engines, Mechanical engineering is a diverse field with many different types of jobs available, including design, research, testing, and analysis. It's important to remember that you don't have to be an expert in everything, but you can focus on developing your strengths and seeking out opportunities that align with your interests and abilities.
If you are still uncertain, it could be a good idea to talk to a guidance counselor, professors or professionals in the field, to gain a better understanding of the field and to help you make an informed decision.
Nidhi Rajput
Designing and Technical Marketing
3
Answers
Vadodara, Gujarat, India
Updated
Nidhi’s Answer
Hey dude,
I think you are inspired by Tony stark.
Jokes apart, Fact is not every mechanical engineer is able to make an engine. Everyone has different specialty. For an example, some might be good with maintenance works in maintenance department, some are good with CNC and quality, they would work in that department.
Consider me, I am a Mechanical engineer.
I am good with designing and drafting, also good with numbers. So, I am a design engineer and still learning about different aspects of designing for different applications.
So don't make mechanical engineer only for engines. Once you'll go deeper you'll find that mechanical engineering is more than making an engine.
You can get the same amount of joy by reducing weight of an aircraft...
I think you are inspired by Tony stark.
Jokes apart, Fact is not every mechanical engineer is able to make an engine. Everyone has different specialty. For an example, some might be good with maintenance works in maintenance department, some are good with CNC and quality, they would work in that department.
Consider me, I am a Mechanical engineer.
I am good with designing and drafting, also good with numbers. So, I am a design engineer and still learning about different aspects of designing for different applications.
So don't make mechanical engineer only for engines. Once you'll go deeper you'll find that mechanical engineering is more than making an engine.
You can get the same amount of joy by reducing weight of an aircraft...
Rohini Sharma
Electrical Project Engineering
1
Answer
Gurugram, Haryana, India
Updated
Rohini’s Answer
Hi Kennedy,
This happens with everyone. IN first year you will get to know all the major core subjects which in return will make you clear that steam engine cannot be prepared only though mechanical engineer overall all engineering skills are required.
Certainly, book theories are based on idle conditions but in applications there are subject to variations to happen according to ground conditions.
Better first you focus on your likings if it is in Mechanical certainly you will conquer them practically too without fail.
If there is love for any subject certainly you will excel in the field.
This happens with everyone. IN first year you will get to know all the major core subjects which in return will make you clear that steam engine cannot be prepared only though mechanical engineer overall all engineering skills are required.
Certainly, book theories are based on idle conditions but in applications there are subject to variations to happen according to ground conditions.
Better first you focus on your likings if it is in Mechanical certainly you will conquer them practically too without fail.
If there is love for any subject certainly you will excel in the field.
Nicole Miner
Operations Planner
1
Answer
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Kennedy,
If you take a step back and look at what you’re doing now, your problem-solving as we speak. The way to problem solve is to ask questions.
The great thing about problem-solving is it's unique to the situation and your experience. At first, you may not know how to solve something instantly, but be patient, because those skills and knowledge will come and you will use them again. Another thought is creative problem-solving is often formed in a team setting. This is where your unique skills, experience, and personality will shine. You are doing excellent. The thing that helped me was performing the 8 discipline analysis.
If you take a step back and look at what you’re doing now, your problem-solving as we speak. The way to problem solve is to ask questions.
The great thing about problem-solving is it's unique to the situation and your experience. At first, you may not know how to solve something instantly, but be patient, because those skills and knowledge will come and you will use them again. Another thought is creative problem-solving is often formed in a team setting. This is where your unique skills, experience, and personality will shine. You are doing excellent. The thing that helped me was performing the 8 discipline analysis.
Thanks NIcole
Kennedy
Evelyn Lebron
Home Health Aid
8
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Evelyn’s Answer
Kennedy, please don't cut yourself and your ability short. You seem to know what you want to do and where you are going with what you already know. One thing I've learned throughout my life is that we, as human beings, ALL have the ability to be intelligent. We were all born with the ability to learn and to grow. What you do with the knowledge that is given to you, or rather to us all really depends on what we are willing to sacrifice to get there.
Thank you very much for you concern.
Kennedy
Elaina Chammout
Underwriter
9
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Elaina’s Answer
Hello, do not expect to have the answers to every question at the beginning, you will learn as you go and many times you are not likely to be expected to have the answers. If this was the case, no job would offer training. They will show you how to complete the job at hand and it will be your responsibility to execute. It is always okay to ask for help because asking for help will set you up to have the answer the next time the problem is presented!
Victor Lau
Accountant
19
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Victor’s Answer
Similar to the comments above, do not worry about these potential failures! Life is about taking a risk and accomplishing challenges. Furthermore, once you get into the working field, even if you do not understand how to conceptually apply a topic to your work, you have plenty of resources and people who will gladly help you!