Is mechanical engineering for me?

[mrtn]

Hello!

This is my first post :D

Most of my life, I've been wanting to be a medical doctor. I dumped that idea in 2008 (I graduated high school in 2009). Ever since then, it's been an off-and-on relationship. However, I ignore it because the reason I don't want to be a medical doctor is because of the long work hours and other factors that are irrelevant to my post.

My point is that last year, I decided to study mechanical engineering at UNLV. I've been for two years at a community college, so I'll be transferring to UNLV next year after I'm done with physics. Yet, I'm not totally sure if it's the right career path for me. I read a book called Is there an engineer inside you? that made me pretty comfortable with my decision. I'm not the best at mathematics, but I do love the subject; I enjoy struggling to study new concepts and I've only been tutored twice in two years (my lowest class in math was a B once).

To be honest, I'm not entirely sure what I would do with a mechanical engineering degree; that book was pretty vague. It was as vague as what it said was the general public's idea of what an engineer does.

I considered architecture once, but like I told a UNLV advisor, "I'm not an artist." Science and math is my thing, and I know that's where I want to be. But is mechanical engineering right for me?

mrtn

 

[lisab]

One thing that's great about engineering degrees - they're very versatile. Engineers work in so many different environments, from hands-on work to sit-and-stare-at-a-computer work.

What sort of things interest you? Do you like figuring out how things work? Building things? Programming?

 

[mrtn]

I don't know if it's a bad thing or not, but I'm interesting in most things that I come across. I love computer science (I'm no expert, but I like learning it. I'm currently trying to figure out linux after dual booting with windows), but I also like hands-on work.

According to my microeconomics class, being a "jack of all trades" is not necessarily a good thing. It's more efficient when one specializes in one field. I've realized that for a while now, before I read that in my textbook.

 

[Bipolarity]

Why specifically mech E and why not chem E, EE, or civ E?

BiP

 

[Matrix0]

mvrs, thank you for sharing your thoughts and concerns with us. It sounds like you have a strong interest in science and math, and that is a great foundation for pursuing a career in mechanical engineering. However, it is important to carefully consider if this is the right path for you before committing to it. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you make your decision:

1. Research the field: Take some time to learn more about what mechanical engineers actually do on a day-to-day basis. This can help you determine if it aligns with your interests and strengths.

2. Talk to professionals: Reach out to mechanical engineers and ask them about their experiences in the field. This can give you a better understanding of the industry and help you make a more informed decision.

3. Consider your goals: What do you ultimately want to achieve in your career? Are there specific industries or areas of focus within mechanical engineering that align with those goals?

4. Explore other options: If you're still unsure, consider exploring other related fields such as industrial engineering, aerospace engineering, or materials science. These may offer a different perspective and help you determine if mechanical engineering is truly the best fit for you.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue mechanical engineering is a personal one and should be based on your own interests, strengths, and goals. I wish you the best of luck in your decision-making process and your future studies!