4 answers
David
Student
Uniondale, New York
1
Question
Updated
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How can I decide on fully committing to a career in electrical engineering?
Im a junior in high school and im still undecisive in what i want to major in. However, ive been thinking about electrical engineering because it involves math which is my strongest subject.
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4 answers
Shelly Lin
Forensic Consultant
42
Answers
Sturbridge, Massachusetts
Updated
Shelly’s Answer
Deciding to fully commit to a career in electrical engineering involves self-reflection and research. Start by assessing your interests and strengths to ensure they align with the field. Gain hands-on experience through internships, projects, or job shadowing to get a real-world perspective. Research the industry’s future prospects, job opportunities, and potential career paths. Consider speaking with professionals in the field to gain insights and advice. Ultimately, trust your instincts and passion—if electrical engineering excites you and aligns with your goals, taking the leap could lead to a fulfilling and rewarding career. Remember, committing to a career is a significant step, but your enthusiasm and dedication can drive you to success!
Camila Mulero
Counseling
4
Answers
Socuéllamos, CM
Updated
Camila’s Answer
Deciding on a potential career path, especially one as significant as electrical engineering, can feel daunting, especially if you're still exploring your interests and strengths. Here are some steps you can take to help you evaluate whether electrical engineering is the right fit for you:
1. Self-Assessment
- Interest Exploration: Reflect on what aspects of electrical engineering intrigue you. Is it the technology, the problem-solving aspect, or the potential to work on innovative projects? Look for topics that excite you within the field.
- Skills Match: Since you mentioned that math is your strongest subject, consider how well you perform in other related areas like physics, computer science, or chemistry, as these subjects are often integral to engineering.
2. Research the Field
- Overview of Electrical Engineering: Learn about the different branches and specializations within electrical engineering, such as telecommunications, control systems, power systems, and electronics. Understanding these areas can help clarify your interests.
- Job Opportunities: Research the types of positions available in electrical engineering and the kind of work they involve. Websites like the Bureau of Labor Statistics can provide valuable information about job outlook, salaries, and daily tasks of electrical engineers.
3. Engage in Hands-On Experience
- Take Relevant Courses: Enroll in any available AP math or science courses, as well as introductory engineering or computer science courses at your school. These classes can provide insight into what the discipline entails.
- Participate in Clubs/Competition: Join school clubs like robotics, science Olympiad, or math clubs. Competitions can also be a great way to experience practical applications of engineering concepts and develop teamwork skills.
- Summer Programs or Workshops: Look for summer camps or workshops focusing on engineering or STEM topics. Many universities and organizations offer programs specifically designed for high school students.
4. Seek Mentorship
- Talk to Professionals: Reach out to electrical engineers or educators in the field to learn about their experiences. Ask them about their daily work, challenges, and what they love about their jobs.
- Job Shadowing: If possible, arrange to shadow an engineer for a day. This firsthand experience can provide perspective on whether the field aligns with your interests and expectations.
5. Explore Internships and Part-Time Opportunities
- Internships: Investigate local companies or organizations that may offer internships or volunteer positions in engineering-related roles. Gaining real-world experience can significantly inform your decision.
- Part-Time Jobs in Related Fields: Consider part-time positions that involve technical work, such as at an electronics store or a tech support position. These roles can provide insight into the practical applications of electrical engineering concepts.
6. Stay Open-Minded
- Explore Other Interests: While electrical engineering seems appealing now, allow yourself the freedom to explore other fields during your junior and senior years. You might find other majors that resonate with you just as strongly.
- Interdisciplinary Opportunities: Remember that many fields intersect with engineering. For instance, combining electrical engineering with computer science or environmental science could lead to exciting choices.
7. Reflect Regularly
- Assess Your Feelings: Every few months, take time to reflect on your experiences, interests, and feelings regarding electrical engineering. See if your passion continues to grow or shifts toward another area.
- Discuss with Advisors: Talk to your school guidance counselor about your thoughts and experiences. They can provide valuable insights and help you think through your options.
Ultimately, it's important to approach this decision with patience and curiosity. Your interests may continue to evolve, and that's perfectly okay. Engaging deeply in math and science—as well as exploring hands-on experiences—will provide a strong foundation, regardless of the specific path you choose. Trust yourself to make the right decision as you gain more insight into your strengths and passions. Good luck!
1. Self-Assessment
- Interest Exploration: Reflect on what aspects of electrical engineering intrigue you. Is it the technology, the problem-solving aspect, or the potential to work on innovative projects? Look for topics that excite you within the field.
- Skills Match: Since you mentioned that math is your strongest subject, consider how well you perform in other related areas like physics, computer science, or chemistry, as these subjects are often integral to engineering.
2. Research the Field
- Overview of Electrical Engineering: Learn about the different branches and specializations within electrical engineering, such as telecommunications, control systems, power systems, and electronics. Understanding these areas can help clarify your interests.
- Job Opportunities: Research the types of positions available in electrical engineering and the kind of work they involve. Websites like the Bureau of Labor Statistics can provide valuable information about job outlook, salaries, and daily tasks of electrical engineers.
3. Engage in Hands-On Experience
- Take Relevant Courses: Enroll in any available AP math or science courses, as well as introductory engineering or computer science courses at your school. These classes can provide insight into what the discipline entails.
- Participate in Clubs/Competition: Join school clubs like robotics, science Olympiad, or math clubs. Competitions can also be a great way to experience practical applications of engineering concepts and develop teamwork skills.
- Summer Programs or Workshops: Look for summer camps or workshops focusing on engineering or STEM topics. Many universities and organizations offer programs specifically designed for high school students.
4. Seek Mentorship
- Talk to Professionals: Reach out to electrical engineers or educators in the field to learn about their experiences. Ask them about their daily work, challenges, and what they love about their jobs.
- Job Shadowing: If possible, arrange to shadow an engineer for a day. This firsthand experience can provide perspective on whether the field aligns with your interests and expectations.
5. Explore Internships and Part-Time Opportunities
- Internships: Investigate local companies or organizations that may offer internships or volunteer positions in engineering-related roles. Gaining real-world experience can significantly inform your decision.
- Part-Time Jobs in Related Fields: Consider part-time positions that involve technical work, such as at an electronics store or a tech support position. These roles can provide insight into the practical applications of electrical engineering concepts.
6. Stay Open-Minded
- Explore Other Interests: While electrical engineering seems appealing now, allow yourself the freedom to explore other fields during your junior and senior years. You might find other majors that resonate with you just as strongly.
- Interdisciplinary Opportunities: Remember that many fields intersect with engineering. For instance, combining electrical engineering with computer science or environmental science could lead to exciting choices.
7. Reflect Regularly
- Assess Your Feelings: Every few months, take time to reflect on your experiences, interests, and feelings regarding electrical engineering. See if your passion continues to grow or shifts toward another area.
- Discuss with Advisors: Talk to your school guidance counselor about your thoughts and experiences. They can provide valuable insights and help you think through your options.
Ultimately, it's important to approach this decision with patience and curiosity. Your interests may continue to evolve, and that's perfectly okay. Engaging deeply in math and science—as well as exploring hands-on experiences—will provide a strong foundation, regardless of the specific path you choose. Trust yourself to make the right decision as you gain more insight into your strengths and passions. Good luck!
Tony Roig
Volunteer
27
Answers
New Hope, Pennsylvania
Updated
Tony’s Answer
Hi David,
As already mentioned by the others who have replied to you, you really shouldn't feel compelled to commit to a career in EE in your current situation, so take any pressure off. By all means though, commit to further exploring the field. There are lots of resources available to do that including looking at current job postings for EEs by companies as they many have videos and other information which help you better understand what they do day to day. Government resources such as ONET also are great resources. Most college engineering curriculums do ask you to decide on a track the first year but you can change within the curriculum but sooner is better to avoid a lit additional courses and expenses. All the best!
Tony
As already mentioned by the others who have replied to you, you really shouldn't feel compelled to commit to a career in EE in your current situation, so take any pressure off. By all means though, commit to further exploring the field. There are lots of resources available to do that including looking at current job postings for EEs by companies as they many have videos and other information which help you better understand what they do day to day. Government resources such as ONET also are great resources. Most college engineering curriculums do ask you to decide on a track the first year but you can change within the curriculum but sooner is better to avoid a lit additional courses and expenses. All the best!
Tony
Andrew Au
Professor of Mathematics & Statistics, Retired
171
Answers
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
If mathematics is your strength, there are many career doors open to you.
At this stage of your academic journey, you do not need to make a definitive decision on your college major or even future career endeavor.
Instead, take as many mathematics and science courses as you can, preferably AP Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus AB/BC, and AP Physics. This will put you in a good position on a STEM track academic curriculum in college. Electrical engineering is not the only STEM discipline that is math heavy.
At this stage of your academic journey, you do not need to make a definitive decision on your college major or even future career endeavor.
Instead, take as many mathematics and science courses as you can, preferably AP Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus AB/BC, and AP Physics. This will put you in a good position on a STEM track academic curriculum in college. Electrical engineering is not the only STEM discipline that is math heavy.