Engineering
1. Math: Math is essential for engineering students. Math is used both to analyze existing solutions and problem scenarios, and to predict good solutions (designs) to new problems. Take pre-calculus during high school to be ready to take Calculus I and II in your freshman year. If pre-calculus was not available in high school, find a local college or university offering this during the summer before you arrive.
2. Study habits: Engineering is one of the majors that will requires the most time to complete in four years. If you are not used to having to spend time studying, engineering will be a challenge. Practice taking notes by hand, and practice studying hard in high school even if you don’t need to. It will pay itself back if you choose to study engineering. Once you start your engineering program we encourage you to study with class mates. Studying together will for most of you both improve your learning and reduce your study time, and you will practice team work – one of the most sought after skills employers of engineers are looking for.
3. Be open minded: Engineering students are typically practical and focus on HOW things work and how science can be APPLIED to solve problems. You will take courses from mathematicians who are much more interested in the pattern itself (math) than in how it is applied, and you will take courses from scientists who are much more interested in WHY things work than in HOW. You have to recognize that their view points are also valid so you can maximize your learning in these courses.