Physics Undergraduate in Physics (need advice)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the value of pursuing a minor in electrical engineering alongside a major in physics, particularly for someone interested in aerospace careers. The individual expresses concerns about the potential need to switch to engineering if graduate studies are not feasible after completing their physics degree. Participants advise that a background in engineering, which is seen as applied physics, may offer better career opportunities, higher salaries, and greater advancement potential. There is a consensus that if the individual is considering a switch, it may be more beneficial to do so sooner rather than later, especially if it would not significantly delay their education. Ultimately, having both a physics and engineering degree could provide a competitive edge in the job market.
Machete_B
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Hello everyone!

Here is a short (?) introduction of myself, by myself :

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?p=1940774#post1940774

So I'm currently doing a Major in physics, I'm having a hard time right now but hopefully I will be successful.

Here are my questions :

Will a minor in electrical engineering help me somehow in my future jobs ? (I'm interested in Aerospatial)

Let's say I finish my major, and I see that there is no way that I could continue grad studies, do you think that changing to engineering afterward will be a waste of time? I'm going to spend around 3 years doing the major, I know I'm still young (20) and I can afford these kinds of waste of time, but I don't want to study for the next 20 years neither.

And my last question : Will I have a advantage (from an employer point of view) over another engineer if I have both the engineering and physics degree?

Thanks!
 
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My personal advice to you is to concentrate on your engineering, which is after all, applied physics. I think you will have more career opportunities in that area rather than just physics, and better careers to choose from (better paid, better career advancement). You can carry on with pure physics as a hobby later on if you wish, but if you can cut the mustard, engineering is a better career choice.
 
Thank you for your advice!

Do think It's better to switch right in the middle of the major or at least finish it ?

If I switch now I have a minor in physics.

Thanks again,
Machete
 
If it makes you happier, go ahead and switch. The only time I'd say suck it up and finish it is if you only have one or two semesters to go and switching would set you back two years.
 
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