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The
first step to success in your engineering studies in college
is success in your academic work in high school. The National
Society of Professional Engineers suggests that an aspiring
engineering student should complete the following academic
coursework prior to beginning college studies:
· Algebra I & II
· Trigonometry
· Biology
· Physics
· Social Studies (3 years)
· Geometry
· Calculus
· Chemistry
· English (4 years)
· Foreign Languages (2-3 years)
· Fine Arts/Humanities (1-2 years)
You will continue studying some of these topics on a college
level in your engineering curriculum. Participating in
honors-level classes prior to entering college and earning
Advanced Placement (AP) credit are feathers in your cap
that will reinforce your academic foundation. They may
open up opportunities to take elective courses that interest
you, outside of your required course of study. If your
high school does not offer AP courses or Calculus, there
are some options for you to explore. Be sure to speak
to your guidance counselor about your interests.
Admission requirements vary significantly between schools
and occasionally engineering majors have some specific
requirements. Therefore, it is important to speak with
the Admissions Counselor. In general, most engineering
schools are looking for a solid high school and/or community
college record in the courses identified above, and require
standardized tests including the SAT Reasoning Test, SAT
Subject Tests, and/or the ACT.
Studying
engineering is hard work like many other college majors.
Don't hesitate to ask for help from the Academic Support
Center at your school which may provide tutoring and
seminars to help improve your study habits, time management,
public speaking and other skills. Make sure you also
carve out some time to join one of the many activities
and clubs your school has to offer. Students who get
involved in school activities develop better relationships
with students, faculty and staff, tend to do better
academically, and enjoy their undergraduate experience
more. It may take a little time to figure out what the
right work/fun balance is for you, but keep trying because
it is worth it!
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