Any tips for a struggling Engineer major?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on challenges faced by an Electrical Engineering student struggling with calculus, particularly calculus 3, due to insufficient foundational knowledge from calculus 1 and 2. The student acknowledges difficulties with integral calculations and ineffective study habits. Recommendations include joining study groups, attending help sessions, and considering government job opportunities to gain practical experience. The conversation emphasizes the importance of both theoretical understanding and practical skills in engineering.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus concepts, specifically integrals and arc length calculations.
  • Familiarity with study techniques and group learning dynamics.
  • Basic knowledge of Electrical Engineering principles.
  • Awareness of career paths in engineering, including government roles.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore effective study techniques for calculus, such as spaced repetition and active recall.
  • Join or form a study group focused on calculus and engineering topics.
  • Attend tutoring sessions or workshops specifically for calculus 3.
  • Research government job opportunities related to engineering for practical experience.
USEFUL FOR

Electrical Engineering students, academic tutors, and anyone seeking to improve their mathematics study habits and understanding of calculus in engineering contexts.

bettermath
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I'm currently doing Electrical Engineering. My main problem is math, and it's mostly my fault. I did the minimum work I needed in calculus 1 and 2 and it's kicking my butt in calculus 3 (I have failed it once before). I don't remember the basic stuff from calculus 1 and 2 is the big problem in this class. Like for finding the arc length of a curve, I can do it all right up until the point where I have to find the integral haha. My main problem with this is that I'm not actually bad in math, I just really suck at studying. I don't know how I can fix my study habits since even if I'm studying in a quiet library with no electronics, my mind wanders elsewhere.
 
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Don't study alone, get into a study group, attend help sessions, consider a government job.

Seriously, the world needs engineers of all levels, those who understand the whole concept including the underlying math, and people to work for them carrying out directed tasks that don't require global understanding. If that is still too much work, management.
 

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