Possible switching from EE to Math Ed.

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In summary, the speaker is considering switching from an EE major to a math education program due to a lack of interest in engineering and a desire for a more fulfilling career with summers off. They have encountered some resistance from others who view education as less prestigious and financially stable, but the speaker is willing to take the risk for a job they enjoy. They are advised to speak with an advisor and explore the teaching career more before making a decision. Ultimately, the speaker must decide for themselves if the switch is worth it. Teaching may be challenging, but it can also be extremely rewarding.
  • #1
skyzo
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OK, so I'm in a real tough decision right now. I am a freshman in college right now, and am about to register for the spring semester. I originally declared as an EE, but to tell you the truth, it really does not interest me, and working 60 hour weeks does not seem like fun. My school has a real nice Education program though, and they offer a B.S. of Mathematics, Secondary education, which means a math degree with some education classes thrown in there as well. I love math, and would love to teach, especially only having a 9 month work year. But as soon as I told people I was thinking about doing this, they all seemed dissapointed, like I was degrading myself by switching to education. They all tried saying schools have no money right now, and there's no way I could find a job when I got out of college. I am not really worried about the difference in money, I just enjoy math, and would love to have 3 months off every year to travel and spend time with friends and family.
What do you guys think? Is it worth switching?
 
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  • #2
Have you had a chance to work on any projects as an EE major yet? Perhaps you are stuck in the drudgery of the first year. Now would be a good time to talk with your advisor and see if you can explore the career a bit more as a student.

Regarding education, if it is in the U.S., you will probably have an 8-10 week summer break, not a full three months. I have heard the Northeastern states have slightly longer breaks than the West and Midwest. Jobs for well-educated STEM teachers will still be out there, but you may need to move to get one. Advantages include being able to continue your education, and usually decent salary increases with graduate credits and degrees.

A lot of people may consider education to be 'beneath' engineering. I suggest, should you take that path, that you send them a postcard from your first major summer vacation trip.
 
  • #3
Teaching is *hard*. If you love it, that's great... but it's amazingly hard work. My wife teaches high school math, and let me tell you, she works for a full year, just packed into 9 months...

There is less money and less prestige in teaching than in EE. If you don't care about this and love to teach, I'd encourage you to switch, despite the current uncertainties in teaching. Of course there is no guarantee you will find a job as an EE right after you graduate either!
 
  • #4
skyzo said:
... Is it worth switching?

This is really a question that you must answer yourself. As has been suggested in this thread already, it may be wise to wait until you are well into your second year; sometimes introductory courses are not that interesting and can give a false indication of how fun / not fun something is.

Another remark; don't let anyone belittle or look down their nose at you because of your career choice. It is much better to choose something you love to do than it is to follow someone else's path. Teaching is extremely difficult and very respectable.
 
  • #6
Teaching will give you a satisfaction that you can get no where else.
 

FAQ: Possible switching from EE to Math Ed.

Why would someone consider switching from a career in engineering to math education?

There are a few reasons why someone might consider this switch. One may have a passion for teaching and want to make a difference in students' lives. Another reason could be a desire for a more flexible schedule and work-life balance. Additionally, math education can provide a sense of fulfillment and creativity in lesson planning and curriculum development.

Is it necessary to have a background in education to become a math teacher?

No, it is not necessary to have a background in education. However, some states may require a teaching certification or completion of a teacher preparation program. Many schools also offer alternative routes to certification for those with a STEM background.

What skills from engineering can be transferred to math education?

Engineering and math education share many important skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and attention to detail. Engineers also have a strong background in math and can use their knowledge to effectively teach and explain complex concepts to students.

What opportunities are available for math teachers outside of the traditional classroom setting?

Math teachers can also work in educational consulting, curriculum development, or as private tutors. Some may also choose to pursue a career in educational research or policy-making. Additionally, there is a growing demand for math teachers in online education and distance learning programs.

Are there any challenges that come with switching from engineering to math education?

One challenge may be adjusting to a different work environment and schedule. Teaching can also be emotionally and mentally demanding, as it requires patience, adaptability, and strong communication skills. It may also take some time to develop effective teaching strategies and lesson plans for different age groups and learning levels.

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