Future Plans for an Aspiring Engineer

In summary, the speaker is a rising junior in college studying material science engineering and is currently doing a remote internship at a National Lab. They are also involved in undergraduate research and are starting to think about their future career options. They are curious about the differences between pursuing a PhD or Masters in material science and are considering attending law school to become a patent attorney. They have asked for advice and experiences from others on this career path.
  • #1
rgoreb18
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12
Hi all,

I am currently a rising Junior in college on track for a BS in MSE and loving it so far. This summer I am doing a remote internship for a National Lab and ever since day one, I have loved it. I also have been doing undergrad research for the past year and find it incredibly interesting. Being a rising junior, I have definitely started to think about my future and what I would like to do. What are some of the main differences between the PhD and Masters track in Material Science? Also, I have put a lot of thought into potentially going to Law School to become a Patent Attorney, and I was wondering if anyone had experience going along that track.

Thanks!

-R
 
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  • #2
I don't know about material science engineering, and this question really needs to be informed by someone specifically to your branch of engineering. For example, biomedical engineering is pretty graduate-heavy so an advanced degree makes a difference and opens up many career opportunities and is economically favorable. In contrast, for civil engineers an advanced degree does very little for you and you never recover the economic opportunity cost of those missed years of working.
 
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What are some possible career paths for an aspiring engineer?

There are many different career paths available for aspiring engineers, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, software engineering, and aerospace engineering. It's important to research and explore each field to determine which one aligns best with your interests and skills.

What type of education is needed to become an engineer?

Most engineering positions require a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Some positions may also require a master's degree or additional certifications. It's important to research the specific requirements for the type of engineering you're interested in pursuing.

What skills are important for a successful engineering career?

Some important skills for a successful engineering career include problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, attention to detail, and strong math and science skills. It's also important to have strong communication and teamwork skills, as engineers often work in teams to solve complex problems.

What are some challenges faced by engineers in their careers?

Some common challenges faced by engineers include tight project deadlines, budget constraints, and constantly evolving technology and industry standards. Additionally, engineers may face ethical challenges when designing and implementing solutions that could potentially harm the environment or society.

What steps can an aspiring engineer take to prepare for their future career?

Some steps an aspiring engineer can take to prepare for their future career include gaining hands-on experience through internships or co-op programs, networking with professionals in the field, and continuously learning and staying updated on industry advancements. It's also important to develop a strong portfolio or project portfolio to showcase your skills and experience to potential employers.

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