I just finished my freshman year at UT majoring in aerospace engineering

In summary, the conversation discussed the importance of GPA in finding a job or getting into grad school. The general consensus was that while GPA may be important in some fields, such as law, it is not always a reliable indicator of success in the workplace. It was also mentioned that schools may not effectively teach practical applications of theory and that experience on the job is crucial for engineers. Ultimately, your GPA may not matter as much in the long run, as it is your skills and abilities that will determine your success.
  • #1
jfreebird44
1
0
My gpa was a 2.9. I'm already nervous about finding a job later or getting an internship or getting into grad school. Should I be?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Just keep "hitting the books" and you should be fine! Often times, your grades will be better your junior and senior year.
 
  • #3
It's not what you know but who you know.
 
  • #4
Schools, for all the propaganda they spew, are not very good at conveying applications of the theory they teach. Engineering theory is best learned in schools, but once that is over, the real learning on the job has to take place. Generally, with a fresh graduate, we do not expect to see useful independence on the job for at least a year, and it may take several years before they will be entrusted to lead a small project.

By then, the GPA you earned is ancient history. We care that you get the degree, not what your GPA is. I have known some people who got nearly perfect 4.0 GPAs in college and graduate school, who can't figure out how to wire an electric circuit. I wouldn't trust them to change a light bulb, let alone design an airplane.

Honestly, the only professionals I know that puts any emphasis on GPA scores are attorneys. Look how well that's working for them...
 
  • #5
JakeBrodskyPE said:
Honestly, the only professionals I know that puts any emphasis on GPA scores are attorneys. Look how well that's working for them...
In all honesty, it's working like a charm for them.
 
  • #6
Ryker said:
In all honesty, it's working like a charm for them.

...except that the reputation of their profession is terrible, and people only resort to discussing things with them as a last resort.

Lawyers operate on perceptions. Scientists and Engineers have to contend with Mother Nature. Mother Nature doesn't care what your GPA was. If your idea is stupid, no amount of advertising will save you.
 
  • #7
JakeBrodskyPE said:
...except that the reputation of their profession is terrible,
Indeed it is in a lot of cases, but the reputation of their profession has nothing to do with their hiring practices. The reputation of the profession is terrible due to its nature, there is no real way around that. Plus, the reputation is no indicator of how well they perform their duties.
JakeBrodskyPE said:
and people only resort to discussing things with them as a last resort.
Which leads to their clients' unrealistic and untenable expectations, which in turn leads to the deterioration of the reputation when the attorneys are unable to satisfy the clients' wishes. It's like asking of a physicist to defy gravity, and then be angry when he can't.
JakeBrodskyPE said:
Lawyers operate on perceptions. Scientists and Engineers have to contend with Mother Nature. Mother Nature doesn't care what your GPA was. If your idea is stupid, no amount of advertising will save you.
I don't know what exactly you meant by that comment, but lawyers certainly don't operate on perceptions. Their approach to resolving things is as "scientific" as that of science, the only difference is that the adjudicator isn't as objective as "Mother Nature". Other than that, I agree that Mother Nature doesn't care what one's GPA is, and I'm not disputing that. The only thing I'm saying is that lawyers aren't an example you can base your argument on.
 
  • #8
JakeBrodskyPE said:
Schools, for all the propaganda they spew, are not very good at conveying applications of the theory they teach. Engineering theory is best learned in schools, but once that is over, the real learning on the job has to take place. Generally, with a fresh graduate, we do not expect to see useful independence on the job for at least a year, and it may take several years before they will be entrusted to lead a small project.

By then, the GPA you earned is ancient history. We care that you get the degree, not what your GPA is. I have known some people who got nearly perfect 4.0 GPAs in college and graduate school, who can't figure out how to wire an electric circuit. I wouldn't trust them to change a light bulb, let alone design an airplane.

Honestly, the only professionals I know that puts any emphasis on GPA scores are attorneys. Look how well that's working for them...
This is all more-or-less true. I would add however that the poster indicated an interest in graduate school, so his or her gpa may be important. Also, gpa is important to many companies for entry level engineering positions. After a few years, as you said, your gpa will fade into the background.
 

What is aerospace engineering?

Aerospace engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the design, development, and production of aircraft and spacecraft. It combines principles from various fields such as mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to create and improve various aerospace technologies.

What are some potential career paths with a major in aerospace engineering?

A degree in aerospace engineering can lead to a variety of career opportunities, including working for companies that design and manufacture aircraft, spacecraft, or missiles. Other career options include research and development roles, as well as jobs in government agencies, such as NASA or the Department of Defense.

What skills are important for success in aerospace engineering?

To succeed in aerospace engineering, it is important to have a strong background in math and science, as well as excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Additionally, strong communication and teamwork abilities are important for working on projects with other engineers and professionals.

What is the difference between aerospace engineering and aeronautical engineering?

Aerospace engineering and aeronautical engineering are closely related fields, but they have some key differences. Aerospace engineering involves the design and development of both aircraft and spacecraft, while aeronautical engineering focuses solely on aircraft. Additionally, aerospace engineering may also include the study of rocket propulsion and space systems.

What opportunities are there for hands-on experience in aerospace engineering?

Many universities offer opportunities for hands-on experience in aerospace engineering, such as research projects, internships, and co-op programs. Additionally, participating in clubs or organizations related to aerospace engineering can provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities.

Similar threads

  • STEM Career Guidance
Replies
2
Views
966
  • STEM Career Guidance
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • STEM Career Guidance
Replies
13
Views
5K
  • STEM Career Guidance
Replies
19
Views
2K
  • STEM Career Guidance
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
2
Views
862
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • STEM Career Guidance
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • STEM Career Guidance
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top