Prospective Students Frequently Asked Questions

How do I learn about careers in Engineering?

Be alert to all the possibilities in your school, home and community to learn about different occupations and professions. Do not just assume that you will be a doctor, a mechanic, an engineer or an accountant and stop there. Explore a wide range of careers. This means you have to research and explore various careers.

Here are some suggestions that you may find helpful in learning about careers:

(1) In school - First see your guidance counselor. This is the logical place to start. He/she will help you to assess your strengths and weaknesses. He/she will review and discuss your qualifications - your aptitudes, abilities, academic background and your potential based on the records in your cumulative folder. Ask your librarian to suggest books on occupations. It is wise to read several books because each author has a different approach to the subject and you will want to get as much information as possible. Read about careers in the occupational outlook handbook which is available in the library. Obtain brochures written about specific careers and occupations. Search the Internet.

(2) Consult your teachers. Talk to your teachers who teach your favorite subject. They can give you suggestions about different occupations and about personal qualifications.

(3) At home, discuss with your parents about your father's employment, about the occupations of friends and neighbors. Members of your family and older friends can give you first-hand information about their work and experiences. However, a word of caution is in order. In all conversations remember that the career will be yours, not your mother's, your father's or friend's. In these conversations you are seeking information - not a decision.

(4) In your community, visit practitioners of different professions and occupations. Usually they will be glad to talk with you if you have done some serious reading about their work. Talk with individuals such as technicians, skilled workers, artists, engineers, businessmen, retail merchants and manufacturers as well as men in other professions. Many communities offer other opportunities through conferences and programs sponsored by the Church and local civic clubs and organizations. (Lions and rotary service clubs).

(5) Career decision making survey - Review the results of your choices on the survey. These are helpful suggestions which you should research and explore further. Consider the results of any other interest type survey.

(6) Contact local colleges and universities. Call the admissions office for literature on specific degree programs in several fields of concentration. Request a tour of the campus and ask for an appointment with the chairperson or a faculty member in the area of concentration you are considering. Ask questions concerning qualifications, course requirements and opportunities for employment.

(7) Computer programs. Lastly, take advantage of the computer data available on the internet concerning careers, colleges and scholarships. The system contains important information you will need to plan your future - (possible career areas of interest and college choices). Schedule an appointment in the Guidance Office to reserve a time on the computer. Also, if you have access to a computer or possess a personal computer which is connected to the Internet, there is website information relative to careers, colleges, and scholarships which can be most valuable to you in planning your future.