Can Anyone Succeed in Engineering with Hard Work and Practice?

In summary: PHYSICS (or something like it). You're not limited to taking physics before math though, if you have a good head on your shoulders and can handle math concepts easily, you can take math first and then physics if you feel more comfortable with that.
  • #1
Woopy
149
0
Hello, I wanted to know what people's opinions are on if you need to have a brain that was meant for engineering to get through the classes. To clarify, I am good at math (getting an A right now in 2nd semester calculus), but I am not very good at physics. I don't plan on being an actual engineer, I just want to get the degree so I can get into patent law. My question is, is the math/physics involved in becoming an engineer so over the top that unless you are naturally smart, you can never get a degree? Or can someone who is not the best physicist in the world (such as myself) get through the courses necessary through A LOT of hard work and perseverance? Is an engineering degree something that requires a special brain that only those born with it could ever get, or can you work your way to one if you try really hard?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
Woopy said:
Hello, I wanted to know what people's opinions are on if you need to have a brain that was meant for engineering to get through the classes. To clarify, I am good at math (getting an A right now in 2nd semester calculus), but I am not very good at physics. I don't plan on being an actual engineer, I just want to get the degree so I can get into patent law. My question is, is the math/physics involved in becoming an engineer so over the top that unless you are naturally smart, you can never get a degree? Or can someone who is not the best physicist in the world (such as myself) get through the courses necessary through A LOT of hard work and perseverance? Is an engineering degree something that requires a special brain that only those born with it could ever get, or can you work your way to one if you try really hard?

You can certainly learn the fundamentals and the details of specializations also. If somehow you find that you don't have that natural engineering talent (which remains to be seen in my opinion, despite your own feelings), that is a different issue and one that should not impact your goal to work in patent law. Being good at math will work very well in your favor either way.
 
  • #3
Woopy said:
Is an engineering degree something that requires a special brain that only those born with it could ever get,
To be an engineer, you don't have to be a genius
or can you work your way to one if you try really hard?
You can work your way to one if you try really hard at Physics and really really hard at the engineering courses. Doing well in math/calculus does not necessarily mean you can do well in engineering courses.
 
  • #4
Engineering isn't a natural talent and it's only fundamentally about maths and physics, there are a world of possibilites within.

I doubt you aren't cut out for it, I'm a second year student and I'm by no means natural, i just work hard.
 
  • #5
You'll probably be fine, one thing I would recommend is possibly not taking physics before taking the math you need.

Many U.S. programs have you take physics and calculus courses concurrently like if they have a 3 semester university physics, there will be a 3 semester calculus sequence too and then a mechanics course you take 4th semester along with differential equations and linear algebra. *every university has their own sequence but this is just an example*

Since you say you're not the strongest at physics but have a good grasp on the math stuff you've been exposed to so far, I'd recommend (assuming you can get away with this ... meaning you won't have to necessarily put off your engineering courses due to delaying physics by a semester or two):

Try and take your calculus 1, calculus 2, and linear algebra before starting your physics ... I'd imagine having the full background of all the math and being very familiar with it before applying it to physics will help a lot if you say you're not as good with it. You'll probably then be in a differential equations and multiple variable calculus class during the time you're doing your intro physics sequence, and you'll have already been exposed to all the requisite mathematics by the time you get to the harder E&M math and then into a sophomore/junior level mechanics class that will be heavy on differential equations.

Just my advice, but bottom line: you don't have to be super bright to do well in engineering, hard work and adequate preparation will more than get you through an engineering degree and onto what you really want to be doing.
 
  • #6
At my school, it goes calculus 1, 2, 3 (multivariable), and then linear algebra/differential equations. The physics sequence is mechanics 1st semester, and then 2nd/3rd semester is your choice, either electromagnetism or optics/modern physics. Right now I'm taking physics for biology majors (that was my original major), so I'm thinking that I will atleast be more prepared since I have some previous exposure before walking into calculus based physics. next semester i'll be in multivariable calculus, so I figured I would be fine as far as the math involved in the 1st semester mechanics course, which only has a corequisite of 1st semester calculus.
 
  • #7
If you don't like engineering how did you decide you want to work in patent law??
 
  • #8
patent law is a lot more of working as a lawyer than as an engineer. All I need to know is how the products work on a technical level so that I can make the patents, it's not like I'm going to be designing the products or circuitry for electronics
 
  • #9
Im an engineer, and a dumb one.
Im neither good at math nor good at physics
i make lots of mistakes and i always correct them if i can.
but I almost never do the same mistake twice.
(I'm not so smart so sometimes i forget)

You can't say you are good at math and not good at physics.
you can say you have not try physics yet.
If you are good at math you will sooner or later like and be good at physics.

its like learning to play guitar notes and not learning to play a song.
 
  • #10
PhanthomJay said:
To be an engineer, you don't have to be a geniusYou can work your way to one if you try really hard at Physics and really really hard at the engineering courses. Doing well in math/calculus does not necessarily mean you can do well in engineering courses.
Furthermore, doing well in Physics does not generally mean you will do well in Engineering.
 
  • #11
Before I started my engineering degree I was terrible at physics. Now, after a couple of years, I get good grades in my physics-related papers. It just takes practice
 

1. What skills do I need to possess to be successful in engineering?

To be successful in engineering, you should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills. You should also have a good grasp of math and science, as these are essential in many engineering disciplines. Additionally, having good communication and time management skills can also greatly benefit your career in engineering.

2. Is engineering a good career choice for me?

This ultimately depends on your interests, strengths, and goals. If you enjoy solving complex problems and have a passion for creating innovative solutions, then engineering may be a great career choice for you. It also offers a wide range of opportunities and job stability in various industries.

3. How can I determine if I have an aptitude for engineering?

One way to determine if you have an aptitude for engineering is by taking aptitude tests or assessments. These tests can evaluate your logical reasoning, critical thinking, and spatial awareness skills, which are important in the field of engineering. Additionally, you can also explore introductory engineering courses or internships to gain hands-on experience and see if it is a good fit for you.

4. What are some challenges I may face as an engineer?

Some common challenges that engineers may face include tight deadlines, difficult problems to solve, and working with tight budgets. Additionally, you may also encounter challenges such as managing multiple projects simultaneously, dealing with complex regulations and ethical considerations, and having to constantly adapt to new technologies and advancements in your field.

5. Are there any specific personality traits that are beneficial for engineers?

While there is no specific personality trait that guarantees success in engineering, some traits that can be beneficial include being detail-oriented, organized, curious, and persistent. Engineers often need to pay close attention to detail, manage complex projects, and continuously seek solutions to problems, making these traits valuable in their career path.

Similar threads

  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
7
Views
207
Replies
12
Views
877
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
13
Views
267
  • General Engineering
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
844
Replies
16
Views
1K
Replies
17
Views
1K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
12
Views
1K
  • STEM Career Guidance
Replies
7
Views
788
Back
Top