Questions about advanced degrees in engineering

[Xibalba]

At the last class of our professional seminar, the head of our graduate department came and spoke to us about graduate school admissions and enrollment. It got me interested in the subject, because my industry interests include areas like energy research, robotics and space engineering. I have never really considered getting a doctorate in engineering, and am planning on going straight to the workforce when I graduate (btw, my major is mechanical engineering, I am a third year, and my GPA is 2.66. I haven't taken anything like the P/GREs) etc. I know that some companies will pay for employees to pursue graduate coursework, but I would like some help in learning things that I can do to improve my academics so that I may have this option in the future. I've noticed that you guys give a lot of helpful and realistic advice, and I would appreciate any tips or feedback as to whether or not I would be ready for / productive in a graduate program in mechanical (or aerospace?) engineering. Thanks!

 

[TonyG]

Hello,

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and interests in graduate school admissions and enrollment. It's great to hear that you are considering furthering your education in the field of mechanical or aerospace engineering.

First of all, I want to assure you that it is never too late to pursue a doctorate in engineering. Many students take a break from their studies before deciding to pursue a graduate degree, and this can actually be beneficial in providing real-world experience and a clearer understanding of their interests and goals.

In terms of improving your academic profile for graduate school, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, try to maintain or improve your GPA in your remaining courses. This is an important factor that graduate schools consider during the admissions process. Additionally, you can consider taking some advanced courses in your field of interest, as this will demonstrate your passion and dedication to the subject.

If you haven't taken the P/GREs, I would highly recommend doing so. These standardized tests are often required for graduate school admissions, and doing well on them can strengthen your application.

In terms of gaining practical experience, you can look for internships or research opportunities in your field of interest. This will not only enhance your resume, but also give you a taste of what graduate school and a career in your industry may look like.

Lastly, I would recommend reaching out to professors or professionals in the field and asking for their advice and guidance. They can provide valuable insights into the graduate school application process and also potentially serve as references for your application.

Overall, I believe that with dedication and hard work, you can definitely be ready and productive in a graduate program in mechanical or aerospace engineering. I wish you all the best in your academic and career pursuits.

 

[Mene]

As a scientist with experience in the engineering field, I can provide some insights and advice on your questions about advanced degrees in engineering.

First of all, it's great that you are interested in pursuing graduate studies in engineering, especially in areas such as energy research, robotics, and space engineering. These are rapidly growing and exciting fields that require advanced knowledge and skills.

In terms of your GPA and not having taken the P/GREs, it's important to keep in mind that these are just one aspect of your application to graduate school. Admissions committees also consider other factors such as research experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. So don't let your current GPA discourage you from considering graduate studies.

That being said, if you are planning on going straight to the workforce after graduation, it's important to make the most of your remaining time in your undergraduate program. This can include taking challenging courses, getting involved in research projects, and seeking out opportunities for leadership and professional development. These experiences can not only help improve your academic record, but also make you a more well-rounded and competitive candidate for graduate school.

Additionally, it's important to start thinking about what specific area of engineering you want to focus on in your graduate studies. This can help guide your course selection and research projects, and make you a more specialized and attractive candidate for graduate programs.

Lastly, I would recommend reaching out to professors and professionals in your chosen field of engineering to gain more insights and advice. They can provide valuable guidance and mentorship, and may even be able to offer opportunities for research or internships that can enhance your academic profile.

In summary, with dedication and hard work, you can definitely improve your academics and become a strong candidate for graduate studies in mechanical or aerospace engineering. Good luck in your future endeavors!