Am I on the right track to engineering?

[robotseatcookie]

Hello everybody, 1st post (please don't bite :P)

I am a freshman student from Arcadia, California (near Pasadena) and I have an interest in engineering, and hopefully I will major in either biomedical, computer, electrical, industrial, or mechanical engineering. I understand that I have little to no experience and have a lot to learn but I would like to get help and knowledge from those who are, simply put, better than me.

My goal is to make entry into one of the top engineering schools in the nation (Harvey Mudd, CalTech, MIT, Berkeley, etc.).

I am self studying AP Biology, Psychology, and Chinese and am taking Algebra 2 Honors (completed Geometry and Algebra 1 in middle school) in my current year. Unfortunately I had a difficult teacher and I currently have a middle C. By the end of the semester I can probably work my way up to a high B. Will this B kill me later in life or when applying to college? I understand the biggest principle behind all engineering is math, but I am working more to hopefully turn this C around and ensure an A in the next semester and future years.

Over the next 3 years, I plan to work my way into Physics Team, Math Team, Solar Cup, and be an officer in Robotics Club. I also plan to take Advanced Placement courses in Calculus BC, Statistics, Human Geography, Chemistry, Physics C, Environmental Science, English Langauge and Literature, Computer Science, and MAYBE Studio Art and Music Theory. I will be a part of Concert Band for 4 years.

My biggest 2 questions for creating this thread are how badly getting a B in Algebra 2 will affect me, and what extracurriculars I should do, specifically for summers and internship/volunteer. I am also curious as to what other forum members pursuing engineering did as well.

Any input or feedback would be appreciated, and thanks in advance to all replies I receive.

 

[SteamKing]

I can't say how the colleges you hope to apply to will view your HS grade transcript, but if you don't test well in the SATs or the ACTs, it probably won't matter anyway. Colleges use these tests as a guide to see which incoming students will do well in a college environment.

Since you are currently a HS freshman, you may want to plan on taking the PSAT/NMSQT test before taking the SAT. Students who do well on the PSAT qualify for National Merit scholarships, while taking the test will give you experience in what types of questions are asked on the regular SATs:

https://www.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt

If your HS has an academic or guidance counselor, perhaps you should talk with them to find out more about these tests.

Space is limited in some of these colleges, so it is important that you do well in your academics. You're competing against kids from all over the country, and some international students, to be offered admittance.

 

[robotseatcookie]

I actually have taken the PSAT and some model SATs (best score ~1960, unofficial). My PSAT result will come in later weeks.

 

[robotseatcookie]

Well it turns out I have a 74 in Algebra 2 Honors. I am determined to work my 455 off and get a B or a B+ by the end of the semester, but how detrimental is a B in math?

 

[Matrix0]

Hello there,

It's great to see your enthusiasm and interest in engineering. Based on your post, it seems like you are definitely on the right track towards pursuing a career in engineering. It's important to note that engineering is a broad field and it's great that you are exploring different areas such as biomedical, computer, electrical, industrial, and mechanical engineering. This will give you a better understanding of which specific area you are most interested in.

As for your current academic standing, having a B in Algebra 2 will not negatively impact your future in engineering. It's important to continue working hard and improving your grades, but one B will not determine your success in the field. Just make sure to focus on mastering the fundamentals of math as it is a crucial aspect of engineering.

Your plan to join extracurricular activities such as Physics Team, Math Team, Solar Cup, and Robotics Club is great. These activities will not only help you develop practical skills, but also show your passion and dedication for engineering. For summers and internships, it's great to gain experience in engineering-related fields through internships, volunteer work, or even research opportunities. This will not only strengthen your resume, but also give you a better understanding of what it's like to work in the field.

In terms of what other forum members pursuing engineering did, it varies from person to person. Some may have focused more on academic achievements, while others may have pursued different extracurricular activities. It's important to find a balance and do what you are passionate about.

Overall, it seems like you are on the right track towards engineering. Keep working hard, exploring different areas, and gaining experience. Best of luck to you in your future endeavors!