Electrical Engineering and Physics, or an intership

[pete5383]

Hey everyone. I'm an Electrical Engineering student, just finished my freshmen year, and now I'm trying to do decide what to do. In the next couple years, I'll have a glut of extra credits (I'll be taking around 10 credits a semester and my university says 13 is full time, and recommends 16 a semester) because of AP credits and some Lib. Ed. classes I'd take and what not. Anyways, I'm thinking about of what to with my extra classes and have some ideas. I plan on going to grad school either right after I get my BS or soon after.

1. Electrical Engineering and Physics (with Engineering emphasis) double major. I'm looking at a double major with physics, hopefully I can get a better fundamental understanding of what's happening in EE, and get a leg-up on the job market. I've looked at how difficult it would be, and think I could do it. I've always liked physics, and was thinking maybe it would help on the understanding level.

2. Electrical Engineering and intership. My college offers "Industrial Assignment" where they basically set you up with an intership your junior and senior year. How much help would two years of experience be when I'm done with school?

3. EE and lots and lots of electives. My other idea is just to take as many EE classes I possibly can, even if it won't get me an extra degree or anything, but just for the pure desire to learn about EE.

So there's my ideas. I've always loved both electronics and physics, and I think I do pretty well in my classes (have a good GPA). So I guess I'm just wondering what will give me the best help when looking for a job. I'm hoping to get a job that's not paper-pushing...but, I suppose I might have to start there anyways. So anyone who can give me their opinion, I'd greatly appreciate it. Thank you very much!

 

[pete5383]

Also, I was wondering if learning a second language is helpful in the job hunt. And if so, any languages particularly useful?

 

[franznietzsche]

Also, I was wondering if learning a second language is helpful in the job hunt. And if so, any languages particularly useful?

This depends on where you live, and where you want to work. But as a general rule, it definitely won't hurt.

 

[pete5383]

Thanks for the input.

I live in America, and I guess I probably will work here (but who knows). Any language that is particularly helpful?

 

[chroot]

I'm a circuit designer for a Nasdaq-100 semiconductor manufacturer. I'd honestly suggest you take some computer science classes to round out your curriculum. Strong Unix and general-purpose programming skills are very valuable in most areas of electrical engineering (since all design is now computer-aided), and few EE graduates really have strong CS skills. It'll set you apart from your peers when it comes time to interview for your first job.

- Warren

 

[pete5383]

First off, I'd like to say thanks to everyone on this forum. I think I've read about every post since I've discovered you guys here, and everyone is so hopefully. So thanks for the responses!

So, now I'm thinking about a couple things: EE with physics minor, csci minor, or some foreign languages. Which would be the most helpful? Also, would two years of an internship help out much? Thank you again!