How can I familiarize and expose myself to engineering?

Question

Tanner

AddedTuesday, March 21, 2017 at 8:36 AM

How can I familiarize and expose myself to engineering?

I am extremely interested in creating and learning the science behind how things work and took an interest in the curriculum for mechanical engineering to be more precise. As a young girl, I never expected myself to take an interest in math or science, but as I took higher math classes and immersed myself more towards engineering topics, I realized that I am and want to be an engineer. I am a second year student in cc, transferring soon to a university and I recently joined a club. As many people know, women in stem is often being pushed and I reached out and joined an engineering club, there I am the only girl with a new interest in engineering and completely clueless. I feel and look completely lost because the group of guys in the club have a solid understanding of the new technology releases and the whole aspect of engineering itself. I feel like I took an interest in this field too late and I have no support.

Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Computers , Education , Electrical , Engineering Skills , Environmental , Machines , Materials , Math & Science , Mechanical , Opportunities/Challenges for Women , Preparation for College , Self Doubt , Software , Space , Unique Challenges , Working with People

Areas of Impact Computers , Education , Machines , Materials , Space

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Answer 1

Stephanie Meyen , Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab (University of Arizona)

Answered Friday, April 14, 2017 at 6:55 PM

Tanner,

First of all let me tell you that it is great that you already have a good idea of what type of career you want to pursue. It is important to have a goal. It helps you to stay on your path, even if things are difficult. With participating in the engineering club, you already took a step towards your goal.

When I started out, I had a similar experience. I did an internship in an institute for solar research. They had a workshop to work on wood and metal. That was the first time I was introduced to working with metal using big machines, as well as soldering electrical connections. And I felt completely useless. But I had a great mentor who showed me everything and let me do it myself and I learned. And actually that is what engineering is all about. You will never stop learning. The field is so diverse, that you will probably feel dumb each time you start a new job. But that is what makes it so exciting and interesting.

Now let me give you a few tips: 
1) So maybe the other guys in the club have more experience and knowledge than you do – for now! Most guys are actually great to work with and they will be happy to help and explain things to you. Just ask them and engage in the conversation.
2) Starting with the club was a perfect first step. Something else you could do is doing an internship in a company in a field that interests you. That is where you will learn the most and gain experience early on. It is also a place where you can find mentors who can help advance you in your career and personal development. Visiting an industry exposition at a conference is also a good way to see what is out there.
3) The most important thing: Be open and ready to learn and explore and ask a lot of questions. You are just starting and you are smart. Give it some time and you will grow into it. 

I hope this helps. Good luck to you. Just stay on your path and I am sure you will be fine.
Stephanie