Aerospace engineering career advice

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenges faced by a junior Aerospace Engineering major at the University of Minnesota in securing internships despite relevant experience and a solid academic background. The individual has a 3.1 GPA, experience in nuclear physics and quality engineering internships, and is involved in Formula SAE. Key advice includes leveraging personal networks, utilizing LinkedIn, and considering headhunters or recruiters, although the latter are typically less involved with student placements. The participant expresses frustration over the perceived barriers to entry in the engineering field.

PREREQUISITES
  • Aerospace Engineering fundamentals
  • Understanding of internship application processes
  • Networking strategies in engineering
  • Familiarity with LinkedIn for professional connections
NEXT STEPS
  • Research effective networking techniques for engineering students
  • Learn how to optimize a LinkedIn profile for job searches
  • Investigate the role of headhunters and recruiters in engineering
  • Explore co-op programs available through university resources
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineering students, recent graduates seeking internships, and professionals looking to enhance their networking strategies in the engineering field.

Carter
Messages
11
Reaction score
0
Hello

About me: I am a transfer junior Aerospace engineering major at U of Minnesota and will be getting a degree in physics from U of Wisconsin the same time I graduate from MN (don't ask how that works, it just does). I have had an REU nuclear physics internship (+ a year and half of nuclear research), a Quality engineering internship and currently a lab technician at 3M while in school. I have 3.1 gpa and am apart of Formula SAE. I am a alright student (not a genius but I do the best I can), I excel in a work environment (have stellar recommendations).

Problem: Since transferring I have found it near impossible to even get a call for an interview for any internships, it was actually easier to get a call back while a physics major. I have applied every where from Boeing to small town engineering firms and nothing. I have a professionally done resume and all of my previous managers attest I was their best interviewee they have ever had.

To me it seems that the more I buff up myself with experience and technical training (referring to doing a 2nd degree) the more doors close for me.

IS MY GPA REALLY THE REASON I CANT GET AN INTERNSHIP TO LOOK AT ME? (I know its not stellar but I figured my experience would at least help me a bit)

IS THIS NORMAL?

IS IT WORTH STAYING IN ENGINEERING?

I love science and actually learning about engineering and how our world functions to an immense degree but I have sacrificed my personal life to be where I am and honestly right now it doesn't seem worth it. I know I am not a genius and probably will be only able to maintain around 3.2 so did I screw up? should I jump ship before I commit more time?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Contact the UM co-op office about getting a position through them. It would be fool hearty to quit now.
 
Carter said:
I have applied every where from Boeing to small town engineering firms and nothing
Are you just resume blasting?

You should talk to your network. Make a linkedin account.

Also you would be surprised how you are connected to companies. Your friends cousin might work somewhere. Talk to your professors. talk to your family. etc
 
I might add, talk to head hunters. I've gotten several positions through them.
 
Dr.D said:
I might add, talk to head hunters. I've gotten several positions through them.
What would qualify as a headhunter?
 
Carter said:
What would qualify as a headhunter?
"Headhunter" is slang for recruiter. But I've personally never heard of student interns being placed by recruiters. For that matter, it's rare for fresh grads to be placed by recruiters. The fee for a legit recruiter is paid by the employer; typically the employer is willing to pay for experienced people ... no need to pay for newbies (there are plenty knocking on the door).
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: FactChecker

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
5K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Replies
11
Views
3K
Replies
23
Views
3K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K