Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the best academic major for a student interested in developing solar roadways, bike paths, and improving solar panel efficiency. It explores the implications of choosing mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or civil engineering in relation to these goals.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- One participant expresses a desire to work on solar roadways and solar panel efficiency, noting that mechanical engineering provides a concentration in energy but questions if electrical or civil engineering might be more beneficial for specific aspects of their goals.
- Another participant suggests that the choice of major depends on the student's progress in their education, career goals, and the scale of involvement in solar energy, mentioning that photovoltaic cells are primarily the domain of electrical engineers.
- A different viewpoint states that civil engineering is the easier path, while electrical engineering is the most challenging, with varying income potentials and job market conditions for each field.
- One participant reiterates the importance of understanding the roles of different engineering disciplines in solar energy, emphasizing the heavy physics involved and the broad nature of their career aspirations.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on which major is the best route, as opinions vary regarding the ease, challenges, and job market conditions associated with each engineering discipline.
Contextual Notes
Some assumptions about job market conditions and the roles of different engineering disciplines in solar energy development remain unresolved, and the discussion reflects varying levels of understanding regarding the specific contributions of mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering.