Take my time during undergrad or get out as soon as I can?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision-making process regarding the duration of undergraduate studies for a student majoring in Chemical Engineering. The student has completed a significant portion of their general curriculum at a community college in Ohio and is contemplating whether to finish their degree in three years or extend their studies to pursue a double major in Mathematics. Financial aid concerns and the potential need for substantial loans are critical factors influencing this decision. The student aims to balance academic rigor with opportunities for internships and future graduate studies.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Chemical Engineering principles
  • Familiarity with undergraduate degree requirements
  • Knowledge of financial aid processes and student loans
  • Awareness of internship and research opportunities in STEM fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the curriculum requirements for a double major in Mathematics alongside Chemical Engineering
  • Explore financial aid options and scholarship opportunities for undergraduate students
  • Investigate internship programs related to Chemical Engineering and Mathematics
  • Learn about graduate school admission requirements for Chemical Engineering and Mathematics
USEFUL FOR

Undergraduate students in STEM fields, academic advisors, and individuals considering dual majors or graduate studies in engineering or mathematics.

mnnob07
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I have spent a great year at a local community college (in Ohio), and combined with some summer credits there and credits from high school will have virtually all of my general curriculum done and most first year/some second year stuff. My planned major is Chemical Engineering.

I guess one detail left out is how I'm going to pay for my university education (transferring this fall). I have always enjoyed math and I have come to enjoy physics, chemistry and am interested in engineering as a career thus my planned major. Given that I have a two year degree right now I should be able to finish the curriculum in 3 more years. However I would like to take an extra quarter or two during summer + an extra year to pick up a double major (Math) and hopefully pick up some more research or internship opportunities.

I haven't received all of the info pertaining to my financial aid but from what I've read it probably won't be very generous and I will likely have to take out a substantial loan anyway. Would it be worth it to spend so much time and money on the undergrad level or just finish it in 3 years (would likely still have time for internship)? I would like to eventually (not immediately) go to graduate school for either major (math, chemical engineering or similar) and one motivation for the math major is that I would also like to teach part time at a community college but with a masters in Chemical Engineering or similar I may still be able to teach some classes depending on the individual college and how many other qualified professors they have hired...
 
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Both have merits. If you're running up debt, you probably want to finish things up earlier.
 

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