Engineer and physics ,which is a right choice to me?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the choice between pursuing a career in nuclear engineering and transitioning to theoretical physics. Participants explore the implications of each path, considering personal interests, academic focus, and career objectives.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a preference for theoretical work over practical engineering tasks, indicating a stronger affinity for physics and theoretical concepts.
  • Another participant suggests that the choice may depend on whether the individual prioritizes salary or personal fulfillment in their career.
  • Some participants propose that additional physics courses could complement the engineering curriculum without necessitating a complete shift in major.
  • There is mention of the possibility of pursuing graduate studies in fields like Engineering Physics or Applied Physics if the individual continues with nuclear engineering.
  • A later reply emphasizes that personal satisfaction in one's career is paramount, suggesting that being an engineer could also align with doing what one loves.
  • The original poster indicates a plan to take advanced mechanics and electromagnetism courses while continuing with nuclear engineering, expressing a desire to study physics independently as well.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best path forward, as opinions vary on the importance of theoretical versus practical work, and whether one can effectively balance both interests.

Contextual Notes

Participants express differing views on the value of engineering versus physics, with some emphasizing the practical applications of engineering and others focusing on the theoretical aspects of physics. The discussion reflects a range of personal priorities and academic strategies.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a transition between engineering and physics, individuals interested in theoretical versus practical applications in STEM fields, and those weighing career satisfaction against financial considerations.

tackenguyen
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hi everyone,
i am a junior nuclear engineer at A&M. After taking engineer classes, i feel engineering only focus on specific problems, and doesn't make me understand the subject clearly and deeply as Physics does. Furthermore i like theoretical works than design reactors and so on. I am not good at lab skills ,but i am strong at theory and prove things. i like course as EM ,modern physics and quantum than heat tranfer or fluid mechanic. I like working on my own theory than work in a large group of engineer. If i change my major to theoretical physics now, i will waste all my engineer classes. I can't study both NE and physics because i cost me too much money and time (at least 2.5 years). Please advice me what would i do. Do what i like or keep studying NE which i may like in future. Thank you very much.
 
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Depends on your objective

Are you looking for high salary or a life of 'doing what you love'?

You can always minor or double major even though that takes a while to complete hte courses but hey, its cool and helpful.
 
Physics might look all nice and dandy in theory, but once you want it to work you usually turn to engineering - because there is more to it than 'just theory'. So with this in mind, you should simply take additional courses in Physics (Modern Physics, EM Waves, Analytical Mechanics, Quantum Mechanics, etc)

Some of those courses will be cleverly hidden under Chemistry, EE, and ME classes - read the descriptions and prerequisites and take them in addition to nuclear engineering. If you still 'love to do it' - go to grad school for either Engineering Physics or something more particular (Applied Physics or even pure Physics)
 
Pengwuino said:
Depends on your objective

Are you looking for high salary or a life of 'doing what you love'?

You can always minor or double major even though that takes a while to complete hte courses but hey, its cool and helpful.

What if being an engineer is "doing what you love"?
 
Thanks a lot,
i will take advanced mechanic and EM in fall beside my NUEN 401,409. Once again ,salary is not a problem to me but "doing what i love" is my main thing in life. Somehow i wil work as a computer programmer and then study physics on my own.
 

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