Computer Engineering to Aerospace: My Messy Situation

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a computer engineering student who is exploring their passion for aerospace engineering despite currently studying programming. The individual finds programming interesting but lacks enthusiasm for it, expressing a strong desire to pursue aerospace, which they believe aligns more closely with their interests. Participants in the thread encourage the student to consider switching to aerospace, noting that many foundational courses overlap between the two fields. They emphasize that programming skills, particularly in Python, can be beneficial in aerospace roles, especially in designing computing systems for aircraft. An aerospace engineer shares insights about the industry's volatility and the rewarding nature of the work, while also cautioning against government positions due to management issues. Overall, the consensus is that pursuing one's passion is crucial for long-term satisfaction and success.
Aeronav
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I am in my semester in computer engineering iam doing Python now and never took programming before and i previously acquired a 1 year certification in computer networking, programming is interesting but so far, i have not found passion in it, i always wanted to do Aerospace, however; iam just starting Cal, so math will be taken in any case, i understand the complexity of aero math and dynamic classes and it will take longer than computer degree ;but, my passion to aerospace and moving parts is unique . anyway, for anyone who did or doing computer engineering or aerospace can you please give me your opinion to a messy situation like this one...lol, i believe computer and aerospace engineers are the ones to ask.

Thank you.
 
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Aeronav said:
I am in my semester in computer engineering iam doing Python now and never took programming before and i previously acquired a 1 year certification in computer networking, programming is interesting but so far, i have not found passion in it, i always wanted to do Aerospace, however; iam just starting Cal, so math will be taken in any case, i understand the complexity of aero math and dynamic classes and it will take longer than computer degree ;but, my passion to aerospace and moving parts is unique . anyway, for anyone who did or doing computer engineering or aerospace can you please give me your opinion to a messy situation like this one...lol, i believe computer and aerospace engineers are the ones to ask.

Thank you.
Hi Aeronav,
I'm first see your post, so first to say welcome to PF, you'll find people here that are specialist in this field that can give you any help you might need.
Read the guidelines and jump right in share what you know and ask about what you don't:)
 
That really doesn't sound like a messy situation. You seem to be early in the program still, so you haven't really wasted any time, and most likely most of your classes would be required for both fields of study anyway. Knowing how to program in python could be useful in aerospace, as well, so don't feel like that was a waste of time.
 
boneh, i didn't mean messy as wasted time, i mean the decision.
 
Well I don't see it being messy in any other way. You clearly have more passion for aerospace than you do for computer engineering, and you are early in the program. Switching sounds like a no-brainer to me.
 
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From a purely non-academic perspective, I changed degree subjects in my first year, and I do not regret it one bit.

I was studying architecture, and although I didn't hate it, I knew that I didn't really like it either. I switched to physics meaning a step up in the mathematics i'd need (like you), but if it's what you want, you should be able to find the motivation to bridge the gap.

Hopefully others can give you some specific engineering advice.

Best of luck.
 
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Thanks both, Math doesn't scare me because i'll get better over time, but the long list of courses of AE is my concern.
 
Aeronav said:
I am in my semester in computer engineering iam doing Python now and never took programming before and i previously acquired a 1 year certification in computer networking, programming is interesting but so far, i have not found passion in it, i always wanted to do Aerospace, however; iam just starting Cal, so math will be taken in any case, i understand the complexity of aero math and dynamic classes and it will take longer than computer degree ;but, my passion to aerospace and moving parts is unique . anyway, for anyone who did or doing computer engineering or aerospace can you please give me your opinion to a messy situation like this one...lol, i believe computer and aerospace engineers are the ones to ask.

Thank you.
I am an Aerospace Engineer for the gov and I love what I do but the field is volatile: up/down/up/down. I suppose all fields are that way but as this field is "sexy" I think its a little more volatile than most. I love the field and I get to go to work (I do research) and play and play and play (mostly with equations and ideas). I would only caution that you avoid working for the gov. It is poorly run, to say the least (all the insanity at the Veteran's Admin, NASA is no different). I do highly recommend going after your passion as that will get you where you want to be: happy!
 
the aerospace industry employs many computer engineers doing computer engineering. However they are not desinging the aircraft itself or working with the frame or control surfaces. Instead they design the computing systems inside the aircraft, such as active interceptors, flight control computers, actuator controllers, etc.
 
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