Expert: Paul Soderman - 2/2/2009

Question
QUESTION: I'm in high school and I enjoy learning about physics and things about planes, space, the atmosphere and so on. I had to do an assignment that required me to ask myself what jobs I would like to do and I was wondering what interested you to become an aeronautical engineer? It sounds like an interesting career; do you think I should pursue this career?

ANSWER: Hi Ana
In high school, like you I loved physics and decided that solving technical problems was my favorite part of school.  That led me to engineering and the big question of which branch to study.  After two years of college I decided that airplanes were more interesting to me than bridges or electrical circuits or whatever. So I became an aeronautical engineer.  If you have similar feelings, it might be a good path for you.  But you don't have to decide right now. If you enter engineering school, you will be exposed to all kinds of new and interesting technology fields that you can choose when you are ready.  The first two years of engineering school cover basic science and math that is pretty much the same for all engineering students anyway.

And it is a good career.  Good luck.
Paul

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: You're one of the few people who actually gave me a good answer (better than my guidance counselor) I have one more question that you might or might not know the answer to, but it's better to ask than not. I'm considering doing dual-enrollment my junior and senior year, would that be a disadvantage or advantage in pursuing this career?

Answer
Yes, I believe a dual major is a plus - it shows you are multi-dimensional in your abilities and goals.  A simple bachelor's degree is necessary but not terribly impressive.  Most employers are looking for people with graduate degrees or dual majors or experience on the job.  My wife got a degree in accounting with minors in art and hotel management and, later, an MBA.  They all help.

You can also help yourself with electives.  I was somewhat shy as a young man and forced myself to take speech and poetry and other classes in college to help my communication skills.  It was worth it.

Have I mentioned that there is a large demand for women in engineering.  They are sorely underrepresented and needed.  One of my best engineers in our research group at NASA was a young woman who graduated from Virginia Tech.  She could get the job done and sell her ideas to management better than most.

Good luck Ana.
Paul