What's it like studying mechanical engineering at UC Davis?

I'm thinking of applying to UC Davis for mechanical engineering and wanted to hear about others' experiences. Is the engineering program there well-regarded? I've heard that UC Davis has a great reputation overall, but I'm curious about specific opportunities within the mechanical engineering department, such as internships or research projects. Also, how is the campus life for engineering students? Any insights on faculty support, class sizes, or the workload would be super helpful! Thanks in advance for any info you can share.

UC Davis has an excellent engineering program and the Mechanical Engineering department is no exception. Compared to other majors, engineering tends to be more rigorous and time-consuming, but it is highly rewarding.

One of the greatest assets of studying Mechanical Engineering at UC Davis is the abundance of research opportunities. Many faculty members are engaged in innovative research and typically welcome undergraduate students to join their teams, which can enrich your learning experience beyond classwork. These research opportunities can often lead to internships or co-op positions, which are quite beneficial when applying for jobs post-graduation.

Speaking of classes, they can be moderately large in the earlier years with approximately 100-200 students in introductory courses. But as you proceed to upper-level classes, the size shrinks significantly, which allows for more individualized attention. Classes can be quite demanding with labs, projects, and assignments filling up a good chunk of your week.

Faculty wise, most professors are supportive and want their students to succeed. Office hours are always a good resource if you are finding the material challenging or need advice on coursework and career paths. In terms of campus life for engineering students, there are numerous clubs and organizations specific to engineering where you can network, learn, and unwind.

In terms of workload, it can be intense at times, but with good time-management skills, it's manageable. Despite this rigorous coursework, it's important to remember that college isn't solely about academics. As much as UC Davis will push you academically, it's crucial to round out your college experience with extracurricular activities, social events, and self-care.

Overall, UC Davis offers a comprehensive and enriching experience for Mechanical Engineering students. The department is well-regarded for a reason, and the opportunities to learn both inside and outside the classroom are plentiful.