3 answers
Madeleine
Student
Minnetonka, Minnesota
4
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Does engineering get harder when you become a junior/senior in college?
I am currently studying engineering and I am approaching my junior year of college. I am nervous that I am going to be overwhelmed by the course load. I want to become an engineer so badly but I get scared for the amount of work it will take.
#engineering #college #junior-college
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3 answers
Simon Robson
Retired Engineering Manager
165
Answers
Greensboro, Georgia
Updated
Simon’s Answer
The first two years are basic courses and to many people not too exciting. The last two years are more specialized and are much more interesting. I liked the last two years better and didn't feel them to be any harder than the first two years. The key is to keep up and if you need, help get. You are half way there.....good luck.
Nicole Baillie
Data Analyst
483
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Atlanta, Georgia
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Nicole’s Answer
Hi Madeleine H. I see that you posted this question a little while ago so I hope my answer to you (or others who may read this response) is still helpful.
Sharing that I mostly agree with the previous answers that have been provided. It was my experience that the first two years of my college journey were challenging...lots of calculus and physics. Have to say that the subjects weren't what I expected in terms of exciting fields of engineering study :). But they were absolutely necessary and helpful as I moved into my more specialized courses. I began taking a few specialized courses specific to my engineering major in the second half of my second year. As I began to take these more specialized courses, my interest began to grow which led me to participate and engage more with classmates, teaching assistants and my professors.
In general, I think you will find that whether it is school or work, things seem/feel easier when you have a genuine interest in what you are doing/learning.
Best of luck to you!
Sharing that I mostly agree with the previous answers that have been provided. It was my experience that the first two years of my college journey were challenging...lots of calculus and physics. Have to say that the subjects weren't what I expected in terms of exciting fields of engineering study :). But they were absolutely necessary and helpful as I moved into my more specialized courses. I began taking a few specialized courses specific to my engineering major in the second half of my second year. As I began to take these more specialized courses, my interest began to grow which led me to participate and engage more with classmates, teaching assistants and my professors.
In general, I think you will find that whether it is school or work, things seem/feel easier when you have a genuine interest in what you are doing/learning.
Best of luck to you!
David Boris
Research Physicist at U. S. Naval Research Laboratory, Plasma Physics Division
2
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
David’s Answer
My advice is not to worry about the course work being too difficult. If you were able to handle the first two years you'll be able to handle the next two. You sound enthusiastic about the prospect of becoming an engineer and that is the most important thing! Engineering is a very rewarding, and interesting profession that provides a wide range of career options. Its normal to be anxious when confronting something new but don't let that anxiety prevent you from doing something that your passionate about.
Upper level engineering coursework is more relevant to your chosen field and generally more interesting than what you learn in intro classes. Importantly though, upper level coursework BUILDS on what you've already learned. You will be applying much of the knowledge you possess from the intro level courses to problems that are specific to your chosen discipline. You will certainly encounter new things too, but remember, two years ago the entire university experience was likely a new thing to you! You've made it this far, don't doubt yourself. I think if you keep plugging along you'll look back one day amazed at what you've achieved.
Upper level engineering coursework is more relevant to your chosen field and generally more interesting than what you learn in intro classes. Importantly though, upper level coursework BUILDS on what you've already learned. You will be applying much of the knowledge you possess from the intro level courses to problems that are specific to your chosen discipline. You will certainly encounter new things too, but remember, two years ago the entire university experience was likely a new thing to you! You've made it this far, don't doubt yourself. I think if you keep plugging along you'll look back one day amazed at what you've achieved.