Energy Question

A lot depends on what you are suited to, or can manage....Generally speaking the further you go in school, the further you will go in life....

Hello,

Thank you for your answer. What do you think I should major in: energy or minor energy and major electrical/environmental engineering?

Hello, thanks for your answer. The problem is if I'm going to do mechanical engineering, I am gonna chose a different university than if I was going for electrical. If this wasn't the case then I would have waited till the times comes for me to chose.

If your passion is energy efficiency, then I would recommend the Electrical Engineering route, to start. Most energy saving programs focus on electricity usage first since that is the 'common currency' of power in the modern world: Almost all the equipment runs on electricity, or its power source runs on electricity (e.g. pneumatic equipment run off the electric air compressor).

You'll also find that most of the formulae you learn are cross-discipline. In the small section on mechanical engineering I needed for Control Systems, I learned that mechanical components (slush pots, springs, flywheels) used the exact same formulas as their electrical equivalents (resistors, capacitors, inductors).

Starting with mechanical engineering, you'll learn more about things like friction, rolling resistance, and cantilevered loads, which is all wonderful to know if you're going to be building equipment, but for fine-tuning the power requirements, Electrical or Electronic engineering would be better.

If you're shopping around for a college, start by looking for one with a good Electrical and/or Electronics program, then see if they've got a course plan for Environmental Engineering as well. And while you're shopping, go to your local community college and take some courses in English, Trig and Calculus. The counselors at the community college will be able to steer you to the right ones to take so your credits will transfer easily, and the classes will be a lot cheaper there than at the Engineering School.

And while you're at the community college, take a course in Public Speaking and in an Art class. You may not need them for your degree, but they're good things to have under your belt, and the art class in particular will help you to see things in different ways, which will be a boon later in your career when you're trying to solve tricky problems. Sometimes you can't see the solution because you're too focused on the thing itself and not the 'negative space' around the thing. If nothing else, the Art class can make you a little more popular at the Engineering school by being able to make flattering sketches of the cute gals to give as gifts.

Hello, and thank you for answering. I've had many people tell me to do mechanical engineering instead of electrical if I'm going minor in energy. Now the problem is that I love EVERY single aspect of energy, so I have no problem to work in fine tuning(electrical) or the building(mechanical). Isn't there a mixed course so I can get a bit of both and at the same time have a great degree name? Thanks

No mixed course that I'm aware of, aside from Major in Mechanical/Minor in Electrical or Major in Electrical/Minor in Mechanical. There is 'Mechatronics' as a field, which is a combination of Mechanical Engineering and Electronics Engineering, but A) that field focuses mainly on robot-like systems, and B) There are no Mechatronics degrees, everyone involved in Mechatronics either major/minored in college or started with one degree and 'cross-trained' to learn the other side of the mix, most likely earning a second degree in the other field.

You should also be wary about a 'great/cool' degree name. It may look awesome, but you'll be spending a lot of time at the interviews explaining what the degree is instead of telling them how you'll be an asset to the company. That, of course assumes you'd even GET to the interview stage with a 'cool' degree name. If HR is looking for an Electrical Engineer, They're not even going to look at the resumes from people claiming to be an Efficiency and Synergy Engineer, they've got no idea what that person's skill set is, and they're not going to read every resume to find out about the applicants, it all get tossed into a search engine so they can pull by degree and/or previous job title.

I've had many people tell me that mechanical was better because it already contained some electrical concepts so I am lost.. Isn't it either community college or university? Why should I take english courses? Wouldn't there be already calculus and trig in the program that I take? I've heard people tell me that Environmental is very very narrow,so I think I will drop it I didn't get the credit transfer from community college to university?(what is it that is transferred) Why public speaking?(I'm not shy) I didn't get the flattering thing?:p Isn't there a program where I major in elec, minor in mech and then specialize in energy? What if I am an EE with an energy minor, would this guy still dump me?(even if I am an EE)

"..mechanical was better because it already contained some electrical concepts..."

Mechanical contains some Electrical concepts because part of the coursework is Physics I and II, Physics II contains basic electrical concepts.

"Isn't it either community college or university?"

No, you can start at a Community college for the 'universal classes' (English, Trig, Calculus) and then transfer to a University for your 'Vocational Classes' (Electronics Fundamentals, Digital Signal Processing, Control Systems I and II, Project Management). In fact many people follow that route, either for the cost savings (community college courses are cheaper than the same courses at a University) because they're unsure of their major and don't want to waste time and money taking courses that won't build to whatever they choose to make their major, or because they're unsure if they'll fin in with 'college life,' and dropping out of community college is a lot cheaper than dropping out of a University.

"Why should I take english courses?"

Two reasons:

1) English courses will help you to communicate more clearly in the workplace, an ability that is almost overshadowing the actual skills used in the job.

2) English is a Required Course for any degree Bachelor or higher.

"Wouldn't there be already calculus and trig in the program that I take?"

Yes, but just like having a choice between buying $20 jeans, and $20 jeans with a little red tag that costs an extra $30, it often makes sense to avoid the 'brand name' product when an 'off-brand' version is just as good. (Take Trig and Calc I and II anywhere except at an Art school (Art schools have to teach the students some 'higher math' to qualify the students for a BA degree. Any degree bachelor or higher is going to have some English and some Science/Math, it's considered a way to make 'well rounded' graduates.)

"Why public speaking?(I'm not shy)"

Public speaking is not just about getting over the fear of public speaking (which takes the #1 spot of Greatest Fears in surveys, above Death, which is #2. So at the funeral, you should be feeling more sorry for the guy giving the eulogy than the guy in the coffin), it's also about learning how to 'present yourself' to an audience. How to stand, how to dress for the situation, how to engage the entire audience, what to do with your hands (SO MANY people need help with this), how to project your voice and be heard clearly, both in large and small rooms.

"I didn't get the flattering thing?:p"

When you are job hunting, what you are doing is being a salesman. The product you are selling? Your own butt, to put it bluntly. Even if you are a one-in-a-million candidate, that means there's a thousand people just like you in China, statistically speaking. Your technical skills alone won't get you the job, you need to convince the potential employer that you stand out head and shoulders above the crowd of applicants that are also claiming to stand head and shoulders above the crowd. (When EVERYONE is special, NOBODY is special.) That's what 'the flattering thing' is about.

"Isn't there a program where I major in elec, minor in mech and then specialize in energy?"

Yes, it's called "Majoring in EE, with a minor in ME, and taking energy/environmental courses as electives."

"What if I am an EE with an energy minor, would this guy still dump me?"

If you are an EE, you are an EE, you won't get 'culled from the herd' based on your minor, unless the HR is looking specifically for "EE Major with ME minor."

However, if they are looking for something that specific, the 'talent pool' will be rather shallow, so they'll start expanding the 'search criteria' to get enough applicants to spend a day or two interviewing, In that case, having the required Major but not the required Minor will just put you into 'day two' of the interview schedule.

Now, if HR is looking for something like "EE Major with ME minor, fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese, Creole, has 5+ years experience with the new tech that has only been out for 18 months." Then you know that company is only posting the job to claim that they can't find any 'qualified' Engineers to fill the position, so they NEED an H1 visa to offer some East Indian or Peruvian Engineer who will do the job for half what an American Engineer will ask for (because the American is looking for enough income to cover the student loan payments, food AND rent) and will do undocumented unpaid overtime at home.

Sorry to go on a rant just now, but you might as well know the ugly truth. Things may change by the time you get your degree, there's a lot of talk about 'reshoring,' and the environmental groups are really beginning to push for stronger compliance with energy efficiency and pollution reduction standards.

There was some talk, and some information on Engineering trends, in this other thread on the site: http://cr4.globalspec.com/blogentry/2503 Check around entry #34.

Will the course credits taken at community be transfered to university? How can I know which courses to chose at university?(do i choose them or are they included in a program,if I can, then can I drop courses that I can take at community for cheaper prices?) When everyone is special, how will the flattering thing help?(how to use it?) Yes, it's called "Majoring in EE, with a minor in ME, and taking energy/environmental courses as electives.: How would the people see that I did energy without going into my courses?(will it be mentioned in the degree name?) What do you think about this path? I got what you meant with the HR thing:) Thank you very much!!!

"Will the course credits taken at community be transfered to university?"

Talk to the Guidance Concelors at the community college. Tell them your plan, let them know which Universities you're planning on applying at, and they'll steer you to the right courses for maximum credit transfer.

"How can I know which courses to chose at university?(do i choose them or are they included in a program,"

Generally, the University will have programs geared towards the degrees they offer. Again, you talk with the Guidance Councelors (notice a pattern here, every school has Guidance Councelors, whose job it is to guide the students down the correct path for their career goals. You already have 'friends in high places' to help you at school, you just have to tap into their wisdom) to see what courses you'll need.

"if I can, then can I drop courses that I can take at community for cheaper prices?)"

Yes, that is the concept known as 'Transfer Credits.'

"When everyone is special, how will the flattering thing help?(how to use it?) "

I cannot give a brief answer here, you will learn the answer as you take Public Speaking and Career Development courses.

"How would the people see that I did energy without going into my courses?"

It will be listed on your resume, Your degree will me "Electrical Engineering, with a Minor in Mechanical Engineering." and after listing the University name and your month and year of graduation, you will have a line that says "-Focus on Energy Efficiency"

"What do you think about this path?"

It is a noble calling, and I wish you the best of luck. I just wanted to make sure you knew ahead of time that the road ahead is not paved with gold. Most people only point out the benefits, and neglect to point out the problems, or how hard a struggle it will be, but I believe in Informed Choices, if you are going to accept a choice 'warts and all' you should at least know roughly how many warts you'll be dealing with, so you won't have an unpleasant surprise later on down the road.

The answers that were given to you were all based on personal experiences of each individual responder!

Generally the answers related to your schooling questions will vary ... There are unique factors you yourself need to identify and take into consideration.. Factors such as your location, type of available schools in that area, school's reputations on any discipline(s), any successful graduates or alumni of those schools, etc. are only some of the questions that you need to identify yourself!

Even here in the U.S., where I can say the number of available technical schools are readily available and kind of unlimited, you still need to validate, sort, and go through to pick which one will match and suit your status and criteria?

One good example for you is, not all school credits are or will be transferable even to the schools that are in the same city, even next door to one another! Any school credentials that you may already have may not be acceptable to another school, and therefore will be required to re-take them again! School's reputation and academic standing comes in this picture..

Well, said, which is why my last post kept up on the concept of "Talk to the Guidance Councelors."

They'll be the people who are keeping track of which schools are accepting which classes from which other schools as transfer credits, which courses will only be half-accepted.

"History of Calculus? According to the the course catalog from Victor Gedankin Community College, that covers the lives and trials of 'the Great Mathemeticians' as they struggles to understand the incomprehensible. We actually sent a Watsamatta U professor to audit the class. It doesn't go over any of the formulas, so it can't transfer as Calc I, the 'history' is mostly conjecture about what happened during unrecorded periods of the people's lives, so it can't transfer as History. There are no writing assignments or research papers at all, so it can't be an English class. We'll put it in as two credit-hours of an elective in Liberal Arts, the catch-all category for things that can't be categorized into any other department."

I've had many people tell me that mechanical was better because it already contained some electrical concepts so I am lost.. Isn't it either community college or university? Aren't there a mixed engineering course where I can get from everything while at the same time having a great accredited degree name? Why should I take english courses? Wouldn't there be already calculus and trig in the program that I take? I've heard people tell me that Environmental is very very narrow,so I think I will drop it I didn't get the credit transfer from community college to university?(what is it that is transferred) Why public speaking?(I'm not shy) I didn't get the flattering thing?:p

IF you go for environmental engineering degree, with a chemistry minor (perhaps), and a mathematics minor (perhaps), then go to law school, you could be an environmental attorney. Then you can go to the head of the line when the world decides it can make its own mind up? Just kidding, but I know of someone who took this path, and all things are possible. Not all things are profitable. Choose wisely.

Bro I loled and thought you were mad.. XDD but then I saw the just kidding lol

Why should I take English courses?

All fields will require communication and/or reports. You don't want to look like an idiot, even in emails, so you need English.

Yes sure but do you really think literature will help :/ I agree with grammar and essays..

Engineers more often than not are required to submit reports, mostly technical reports. It is not enough that you can talk, speak or communicate your thoughts.....

It is very important to be understood yet one should also guard against being Misunderstood! Since the English language is not that simple.

Yep got it thanks:)

Personally, I would recommend he (1) study at the best university he can gain admission to, (2) focus primarily on getting all the mathematics background needed, (3) narrow down his interest within energy (this is an all-encompassing field) at least slightly, because there are almost limitless paths to take in "energy", (4) read as much as he now has time to read in various fields to see what peaks his interest, and (5) take aptitude tests, but with an attitude that this is not to limit what you can do, but rather to tell you what areas need bolstering the most, for if your heart is in it, tests can't really reveal all that much about your drive to reach your goals.

Above all else - talk to people involved in each industry you are interested in, if you can gain any appreciable access, but be sparing of their time. Offer to volunteer if there are groups that will allow for that. You will find that the more you learn, the less you "know".

(1) I don't get why? (2) Where and when?And what are they? (3)What if I like everything about energy,can't I just do the program then apply for the best job out there or should I specialize even more? (5)Should I take them on the internet?(any specific place?).I also didn't understand the difference between tests and aptitude tests to test skills? (6)What should I ask them?You mean that I try to enter in their jobs and do an internship there if they accept? Thanks

You are getting the idea. 90% perspiration, 10% inspiration, and still some companies want a strong back, and a weak mind.

Ask around, even be slightly pesky about getting a tour of a facility, an engineering firm, or just make friends with someone else involved in engineering. Good universities for engineering, usually have highly rated programs (based on peer acceptance, awards, etc.), and you will professors there that will explain things in a greater light than others are able. You have to decide at what level the price difference matters.

So is it the same course explained "better"? Could you answer my other questions please :( Thanks!

Trying to guess what the future will be like is a wasted effort....likewise it would be foolish to think your goals, ambitions and interests will not change...so the best advice I can give, is to build a solid foundation from which you can launch your efforts in the future....You are fortunate in that you have a general area of interest that you wish to concentrate on....I would look for projects that I could do to further explore the fields you mentioned, hopefully you will in a few years know the answers you seek today...and tell us the answers rather than ask them...

When I went to the school counselor for orientation, she told me that I had to follow my passion and the earlier I find it, the better, so that I can get hold of my future.Anyway, how do you suggest me to build solid foundation? I still have one year to begin freshman.

I had a job working in the fastfood kitchen of a popular Lebanese waterpark called Waves. Apart from that, I don't think someone will hire me other than for jobs like that at 17 years old:) And yes I got your point, thanks!

Well like Rixter said, there are a lot of subjects that are necessary for any engineering profession, math and science classes etc....I would look at some of the job titles available, and see what appeals to you...There are also intern type jobs available, I would look around in your area and get some real world experience...

http://www.engineerjobs.com/jobs/?e=i

http://www.engineerjobs.com/jobs/electrical-engineering/

http://www.engineerjobs.com/jobs/mechanical-engineering/

I personally would be looking at software engineer....

http://www.engineerjobs.com/

http://www.ece.ucf.edu/EE/requirements.php

http://www.ece.ucf.edu/CpE/requirements.php

http://me.columbia.edu/program-requirements

I would be interested in ANY job related to energy, and if no energy jobs are available, I would go for ANY electrical engineering jobs, too. I don't have any dislikes since I love energy and electrical engineering:) Well I think I will go for intern jobs during university if I have the opportunity, since no one will accept me now because I am still no in university. Where do you advise me to search (links if available) for part time intern jobs during freshman and further university years?

Thank you for answering again.

she told me that I had to follow my passion and the earlier I find it, the better, so that I can get hold of my future

Long time since I got such advice...lucky you!!

Seriously, if you can afford it, go the Electrical degree route. Like anything you build, you need a good foundation to build a good structure. When you think energy, what type of energy comes to mind ? Mankind requires electrical energy, now and forever, whether it is derived from any other source or not. I am not thinking job security, but future opportunity here.....

So you're advising me to take electrical instead of mechanical?I'm really lost since I've got various opinions(between ME and EE). Thanks!

Get a job in one of the trades that relate to the engineering skill you think you might want to work in. electrician? A/C? Mech? Building etc. It will help fund your further education as well as answer the question you are asking.

I agree--solid foundation. What looks good today may change by the time you get there. Some phase of energy looks good; maybe electronics too. However, I saw something recently (Machine Design?) that an apprenticeship may be more suitable than college depending on your interests & skills. Have you done any aptitude tests to help you decide? To help with costs and provide some job experience a co-op program might be good--I didn't, and wonder how it would have worked out.

Whats the difference between apprenticeship and college? Aptitude tests to decide between what and what?(and where to do them?) Where could I get a co-op program?

Apprenticeship would be vocational training, something like plumber, machinist, or electrician and probably many others. I would think that aptitude tests would be available thru your school; I think the ones I took were automatically given in grade or high school. Many colleges should offer co-op; it would be school classes for a semester, then work for a while--however they split up the times.

If you enjoy what you are doing its never work.

Yes, true talk. Do you think I should do what I love or just work? Thanks

If you have a passion for what you are doing then always go for it. The money is just an added benefit.

If you love electrical engineering, then go into electrical engineering. For intern jobs, the university you choose will have made arrangements with companies for intern jobs for their students. The uni will therefore be your best source of information. Students generally do not make such arrangements independently of a uni because internships involve getting uni credit for the work. Contact your uni of choice for details on their internship programs.

I might also point out that many unis (to their credit) don't require you declare a major until the end of your sophomore year. This is not a hard-and-fast rule but it is quite common. They don't require students make a decision immediately because many (if not most) new students simply haven't sufficient exposure to make an informed choice. In my case I already knew I wanted electrical engineering and so I declared early and chose my electives on that basis with a heavy concentration on math and physics in addition to the usual core subjects.

Also look at a uni's graduate & graduate research programs because that's where the rubber hits the road, academically-speaking. Functionally an undergrad degree is basically a 'union card;' with it you can get any job requiring a college degree - even if the work is not especially relevant to your degree. It is with your having a graduate degree that doors open to the really interesting work - particularly if your passion is research (which seems to be the case here, yes?)

How can I know if the uni has a good grad program or not? And I could work anywhere as long as it is about energy and as long as there is good money ;) What other good advice do you have to choosing the right uni? Thanks!

"How can I know if the uni has a good grad program or not?"

How would you answer that question?

If I asked you "I'm in the market to buy a good vehicle. What is a good vehicle for me to buy?" how would you answer the question? Would you recommend a vehicle straightaway? If not, why not?

I was asking you im the case of energy, what would be the criterias to search for when looking for undergrad programs?

Keep in mind that passion and good money are not necessarily compatible.

Yes, of course. I have many passions, but energy combined with EE or ME is the one that would give me a good worth of money, don't you think?(please correct me if I'm wrong)

I love electrical engineer but prefer energy a little more. But I'm gonna do electrical in case energy is too narrow and risky. Very good point yo made on uni giving credits. Do you think a company will favor an electrical engineer with energy minor more or less than one without a minor, if this company is hiring to design electrical basic stuff(more classic electrical stuff)? This is just to know if I specialize or not. Thanks

What you think and feel like at this point in your life will require a lot of hard work on your part, and that will be just learning the basics and fundamentals part of the process! So my suggestion is to slow down and take one step at a time...

1. Do a self evaluation, include things you like and enjoy doing.

2. In academs, list all the subjects you like and excelled in high school. ..

3. Be aware of your inclination. Engineering studies, specially in electrical eng'g involves the most mathematics courses as part of its fundamental requirements...

4. A successful engineer, need to have a very good knowledge, thorough understanding and ability to interpret all the basic fundamentals of the different sciences...

5. Then enroll in any good engineering school in your area, Since the first two years of course works are pretty much the same in engineering.

6. By the time you are in your third year, you are going to be a bit knowledgeable and familiar, and therefore will be in a much better position to decide which way is best for you to go..

7. You will be the only one that can decide what is best!

Good luck!

1. I did already and turns out energy came out at the top. 2.I've heard many people tell me that school scores are not related to what you will be doing later in life.(I may have not done my best,or searched for help in my studies when I found difficulty) 3.Thank you for warning me for this. What do you think would be better to combine with energy, ME or EE?(I am still lost) 4.What do you mean by different sciences? 5.Unfortunately, Lebanon doesn't have any energy engineering..If it had, will the transfer to another university after the two years be possible? 6.What is there in the first two years that will make me decide what to do? Thanks!!

Do you have any hobbies such as computer programming, building simple electrical circuits, wood working, metal working, etc. The best advise is to assume that you can not predict the future and get a good solid foundation of knowledge. You do, however, need to choose between electrical and mechanical. Somehow you need to make that choice based upon what is inside you. Often what is inside you comes out in your hobbies.

If you can economically make it happen I would suggest considering spending an extra year in school and getting both majors. That will open up a lot more doors for you.

Among those you mentioned, I like wood and metal working(since I weight lift:p) and literally anything related to energy and efficiency.Why? I'm not really into mechanical, I prefer electrical engineering, and energy the most. But as I said, I'm gonna do electrical engineering in case energy is too narrow and risky. Thanks

Victor, if you've got buddies that are struggling to find engineering jobs, something is very wrong.

Engineering is a very hot field, especially in the energy sector.

Where do you live?

I live in Lebanon but my buddies who graduated from Lebanon are still trying to get jobs abroad, but they only did mechanical engineering without energy.

Do you have choices for this year? I went to summer school so I could take calculus in my senior year HS along with physics. getting basic sciences ( bio, phys, chem ) as soon as possible makes the overall view easier. I roomed with my brother in college - a mech engineer. He had B. Eng. with good grades our father was B. Eng. head of eng research div. You are starting on the right path. Talk to people. esp EE's and ME's. If you are good at eng, try to get advanced training; that's where you want the specialization. The friends you meet will grab you. EE is the hardest math (IMO), ME is the widest field. Don't be afraid to go and visit schools; talk to to profs, look at their grad research areas. You may be surprised at their interest .

Yes I did make the choices of taking every subject AP(advanced placement).But what should I ask EE and ME(I don't see the point,could you please explain).Is it at the uni that I take advanced training(is it something you pick?) I've had people tell me that mech is best to combine with energy, others told me it is electrical, I'm lost here..Again what should I ask the profs?

Victor, you are on the right track, do what you love to do, never stop learning, and you will certainly be successful, university just the start, degree is important to get through the door of an employer, from there on it's your desire / ability to keep learning makes the difference.

Suggest Electrical Engineering, this will develop your imagination, you can not see the electrons moving about, but need to visualize it, and this visualization is the Mother of invention.

Best wishes: Old man George

Don't you think it is better to get employed rather than continue to learn further(even after the degree). Could you please explain why is it electrical pver mechanical which is the best to combine wtih energy? Thanks!

Dear Mr.energypassion97

Now a days Specialised Branches are available both at Under-Graduate Level and Post-Graduate Level and seperate Institutes are available for ENERGY MANAGEMEMNT.

Pl.pursue your studies and try to specialise which will help you to get recognised by the Industry/Society.

DHAYANANDHAN.S

Okay, I didn't know that specializing would give me more importance. Thank you very much for helping!

You need to have good and strong back ground of maths and physics to be good energy / electrical engineer. Check your proficiency in these subjects. There are lot many videos of fundamental electrical concepts. Go and search them and ask your self how far you are able to understand and then go further deep step by step.

Another way to judge your aptitude of electrical engineering would be to open failed equipment like electric iron, tube light circuits, thermostats etc. and try to find out what has gone wrong. You may break open them to understand the construction circuitry of these. Have a multimeter and check continuity measurement of resistances, capacitance, small DC and AC voltages (be careful not to attempt voltage beyond 12V). Then you may go for taking up various kits available for making and understanding electrical concepts. This would give you feed back to your self how you generate further interest in the field and then go deep.

Thank you for answering. If I feel that I'm not into it, should I do the same for mechanical engineering and then pick between EE or ME? Thanks

Yes. You should test your aptitude. Try to search and attempt aptitude tests on these subjects (electrical, mechanical and energy) and find where you have real interest and aptitude.

Where should I search?(any specific links?) If it turned out that I have interest but no aptitude, what should I do?

I see you're down to deciding between a ME or EE and think I might be able to offer some insight. My advice would be to get either engineering degree from the best school you can. That's all that really matters, for in doing so you'll develop the ability to learn anything you need to know to pursue any career field you desire later in life. I truly admire you for inquiring and giving your options so much forethought. I see that as a characteristic that will take you far in life, as long as you don't dwell on it too long.

You see, I was once at the decision point you are today but I don't recall weighing my options as carefully as you are. I just chose a ME because I felt I had a greater aptitude for it and could easily see the principles at work. Electrical on the other hand was much more mysterious to me at that age. This decision turned out to have little impact on my career though, because I have spent most of it as a principle electrical engineer for a major aerospace firm. And what I learned in school is miniscule compared to what I have learned since. My point is to first develop your mind and to always keep our options open. You don't know where life will take you. It could very well be somewhere you can't imagine right now.

Some of the best advice I ever got was given to me when I confided in one of my professors that I would never be able to remember all that he was teaching me. He calmly said with a smile, "You don't need to remember any of it. All I'm really teaching you is how to look it up and think things through on your own." Honestly, that alone was worth the cost of tuition.

Best of luck to you.

Why from the best,does it matter..?What does it have that other colleges may not have? Wow,how could you be an ME and work as an EE?Is the opposite also possible? Where do you suggest me to build a good solid knowledge since as you said, we never know.? Really good point, I didn't really love teachers, lol. Thanks!!

Young man better complete your graduation in mechanical or electrical engineering then appear for Energy Audit qualifying exam. You can work with many consultants such as Earnest Young who can offer you good job. But now a days all young guys choose I.T degree and work for IT cos. I think there is more scope in IT industry.

Where can I take the energy audit qualifying exam? May I ask who is Earnest Young, and how can I get in touch with him for a job? Why would you think that IT is better than ME,EE or Energy? Thanks

Here is an age old problem - at 17 years of age, with no real world working experience, we are expected to choose what we want to do for the rest of our lives. Not very easy to do. All is not gloomy as it seems.

When I went to college a friend of mine took a general engineering course that exposed him to all major engineering disciplines, and allowed him to "load up" on his preferred field in his senior year. It worked very well for him. That's one possibility.

I went back after three years in the real world for a second major, as did my college room mate, who went from being a geologist to being a veterinarian - a real major change, but it worked well for him, and for myself as well, as my major change sent me into the energy field, only to make my way back to electrical engineering, my first major, after 11 years in the energy field. So there is another possibility. Going back to school is not such a hard thing as it seems, if you find you don't enjoy what you majored in. Life is long and there are many opportunities out there if you look for them.

Engineering will take off, despite what your friends are experiencing, as the engineering work force is aging and will have to be replaced. What they are experiencing has been normal for many years. In the early 1970's, it took me 6 months to land my first engineering job.

Where and when can I take this general engineering course? Will i replace EE or ME courses or just take a year or more time extra? Seeing that you went back to uni, what do you advise me so that I can make sure I love what I will be doing?(so that I don't return to uni) Why do you think that engineering will cease to exist later in life? Thank you!!

Engineering is applied science. Most engineers do not have a solid enough background in science to solve their engineering problems in depth. I suggest that you consider a B.S. in a hard science (astronomy, biology, chemistry, physics, etc.) with a double major or minor in mathematics (the language of hard science). Then pursue an advanced degree in engineering. You will be an outstanding and exceptional engineer!

Energy is a fascinating field. Do not limit your options to environmental or electrical.

Look into the laws of thermodynamics. A good and fun introduction is in what Isaac Asimov considered his best science fiction work, "The Last Question". It was written in 1956 when computers took up a city block with vacuum tube technology, but the message is still timeless.

see: http://www.multivax.com/last_question.html

Wow!!Don't you think I will hate my life with this xD (theories and detailed stuff) What should I do instead of limiting myself?I planned on doing EE or ME combined with energy. Why do you suggest reading about thermodynamics?

It is difficult to understand energy (the ability to do work) without understanding the laws of thermodynamics.

If you will hate your life because of having to deal with "theories and detailed stuff", I suggest you do not pursue engineering as a career. Details and applied theory are the foundation of successful engineering.

I did not read all the responses but my opinion would be to start your college pathway in any of the disciplines you mentioned---early courses are sufficiently general that you can change pathways without issue. Make sure you get yourself into summer work programs that are related. Then, who knows what the market is like in 4 years. The majority of individuals who go on internships I believe get hired either by their host company or one of their competitors.

Victor, perhaps the greatest paradox of life is that you never end up where you intended to go in the first place. Don't limit yourself to only environmental, energy, or electrical.

It's a big world with thousands of types of jobs. Sounds like you're into the sciences, so stick with that and study hard.

I NEVER dreamed I would end up where I am now--oilfield sales. Do I use my engineering degree? Not much, but it gives me credibility and helps me explain things to my customers in terms that they can understand. Just this morning, I spent two hours helping a customer plan the completion of his well. He was virtually clueless about what could be done--and what couldn't be done.

There are a lot of other things to consider in a career: Indoors or outdoors? Big company or small? Do you prefer to work with others or alone? Where do you want to live? Enjoy travel? It's hard to determine what you really want in a career until you actually start it. And, it's OK to change!

One thing that many young engineers have difficulty with is communication. Learn to be comfortable presenting your ideas to others effectively, otherwise you might limit yourself to life in a cubicle.

The spoken (and printed) word is as sharp as a two-edged sword, if not used properly, it does cut both ways. Remember this: "illigitmus carborundum" - loose translation: "don't let the bastards wear you down". And never be serious with a fool or a joker, it is as casting pearls in front of swine. Definition of a fool: someone who insists he is the highest authority in the universe. Trust in this: there is a higher power, and he is not you (or me, or anyone else on this forum (at least that I have met on here)).

Another translation of "illigitimus carborundum" - don't let the NIMBYs or politicians thwart your brain children. Find a path through all the clutter into open waters. Also remember this: if you work smart and hard, you are at least two steps ahead of the guy that just works smart and the guy that just works hard. The industrial definition of insanity is this: working hard at the same fool's errand over and over believing each time that a more favorable result will eventually be forthcoming. One cannot ride a dead horse, find one with good lungs, strong legs, and sound hooves, and don't let him buck you off.

What do you mean by summer work programs? Where can I find them? Thanks

What do you suggest instead of limiting myself to those?

As you start your engineering education, you'll see a lot of areas you never knew existed. In 5 years, there will be new fields that don't exist now.

Don't just tell yourself, "I want to be one of those," at this point. If possible, try to find work in an engineering-related area during summer breaks. You may find that you really like, or dislike, various aspects of actual work (as opposed to study).

One final thought, then I bow out. In engineering what you know is highly important, about 65-80% of getting a job. What you can learn quickly (that has already been demonstrated) is worth maybe another 20-35%. The other 100% has to come from who you know. Because without 100% of who you know, you are just an island in the stream. Math is a funny subject, isn't it?

How to know what I can learn quickly? How can I make many connections? I don't get the last part about math;)? Please answer my previous questions :( Thanks!!

what you can learn quickly is the sort of stuff you do not learn in a classroom, but rather by demonstrating throughout your career the ability to adapt, change, implement new data (information/techniques/materials), or simply pick up a new assignment with a good attitude, and by observing learn what others have missed in this task, and how you can improve it.

If you notice, all the percentages I used added up to more than 100% (200% to be exact), but it takes 100% of what you know, and 100% of who you know.

Victor, This notice about an eBook just came in today. The title sounds good, but I haven't checked beyond that. Notice from Plant Services, apparently put out by Atlas Copco, Kaeser Compressors. Title: "What you don't know about energy efficiency could cost you."

Thanks, I'll check it!

What do you guys advise me to do if I wanna work in energy? Major in energy Major in EE Major in ME Major in EE,minor in energy Major in ME,minor in energy Major in ME,minor in EE,specialization energy Major in EE,minor in ME,specialization energy Major in physics,minor in maths,THEN any of the above. None(in this case please suggest for me..) Please answer with 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 I need an urgent answer because I am lost.

The list would have been easier to read in vertical format:

1. This

2. That

3. The other

The single line with inconsistent punctuation makes it hard to pick the items bu number, especially since there are no numbers to go by.

But to answer what I believe your question is, I would say "Major in EE."

I posted it in vertical,as you said, but when I actually submitted it, it went all wrong,I'm sorry:/ Could you please explain your answer(major in ELectrical Engineering)

Why not take a 'gap-year' before going to University to study your chosen field. When you graduate, a year of hands-on experience will give you a significant advantage when applying for a job.

Do you mean that after freshman or before? What kind of jobs and where could I search for them? Thanks

It's a risky strategy, and depends upon many factors. I'm not acquainted with the job market in the US,

You leave School at 18 y.o. Defer entry to University/College. Get yourself a 'grunt' job, and spend a year sweating it. If all goes well, you can later go into the job market with a certain extra. ' I have sweated and worked alongside the people you are asking me to act as boss for'.

Imagine the situation; You emerge from Uni and are put in charge of a team. If you have spent some time at the hard end of the job, people will respect you. A fresh-faced graduate will have a hard time.

It's a difficult call. Academic qualifications do matter a lot, and you need to figure a balance. A year of solid practical experience may be worth it. The nature of the job market varies, so it's a gamble. I hope you will keep us updated on how things go.

What kind if job should I do?(waiter,or something else) Should I work part time during uni or work during the summer before starting uni? Thanks

Ideal would be something related to the fields you expressed interest in. If that is hard to find, I'd suggest anything that involves the tools of a trade craft. Waiting etc probably wont even have the benefit of enabling you to save some cash for college years, though it's not without merit.

Part time study may extend into something that becomes a drag. People working their way thru Uni does not happen that much in the UK (different funding systems and work ethic). Nothing wrong with having some fun holiday time before embarking on a course, but be very wary of having too many gaps in your C.V. Between School and starting College/Uni, I personally don't see anything wrong with a person taking some holiday time. It's a chance to do stuff you may not have time for in the next few years.