Choose Engineering
Engineering, among the oldest of professions, provides graduates with myriad opportunities. Hispanics have been, and continue to be, grossly under-represented in this field.
When a student studies engineering at university, his or her ultimate goal is to be able to apply science and math principles to solve various types of problems. An example would be a civil engineer, whose job it is to plan, design, and supervise – rather than construct – buildings, water treatment facilities, mass transit, etc.
Because there are so many types of engineering in which students can specialize, it is usually fairly easy for them to find an area that interests them. It will require a number of years to become an engineer, often requiring students to continue their studies beyond a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree.
Engineering curriculum is considered by most to be quite rigorous and will include taking courses in science – typically physics and chemistry – and math, of which it has been said, “math is the language of engineering, so you’ll need to be fluent.” Completing your degree requirements will take much determination and a lot of hard work, but the benefits and satisfaction you will ultimately achieve will be well worth the effort.
When you are looking at engineering programs, you should, of course, consider the school’s ranking, but also take a look to see if they offer engineering support. A support program will offer free tutoring services for engineering, science, and math courses; academic advising that will ensure you are taking the courses you need and in the order you need them; internship and job placement services; and possibly scholarship and/or research opportunities. It will also be important to find a program that is specifically designed for minorities and people of color such as MEP (Minority Engineering Program).
MEPs not only offer the services listed above, they add the dimension of understanding the issues that affect students who are considered to be in the minority. This program also emphasizes developing a community of engineering students who will support one another and work together.
An organization maintained specifically for Hispanic engineering students is the Society of Hispanic Engineers (SHPE). SHPE can offer much-needed mentoring, networking, and leadership opportunities.
You can contact The National Association of Minority Engineering Programs of America (NAMEPA) by writing to: NAMEPA, Inc., 1133 W. Morse Blvd., Suite 201, Winter Park, FL 32789, or contact them online at http://www.namepa.org if you would like to receive a directory of universities across the country that offer Minority Engineering Programs.
If you are motivated to do work that will benefit society, desire a professional work environment, a challenge, and financial security, engineering might just be the profession for you!
Sat, May 29, 2010
Degrees, Education, Higher Education