Advice for High School Students Interested in Engineering College?

I'm a high school junior and I've been thinking about going into engineering. What's the best advice for someone like me to prepare for an engineering college? Are there any specific programs or AP classes I should take?

If you're considering an engineering program, it's great that you're thinking in advance about how to prepare. Here's some advice tailored to your goals.

Academics: Prioritize taking relevant challenging high school courses. You should aim to take AP Calculus and AP Physics which are essential in most engineering programs. If available, consider also taking AP Computer Science to develop some early programming skills. If your school doesn't offer these classes, consider taking similar college-level courses at a local community college or through online platforms like Coursera.

Extracurriculars: It's crucial that you get hands-on experience which is valued in engineering. Consider joining or starting a robotics club, participate in science fairs or engineering competitions, or consider an engineering-related internship. Volunteering at places like the museum of science, or tutoring younger students in maths might also be useful.

Programs: Many universities offer summer programs for high school students interested in engineering. These could provide practical experience, introduce you to faculty, and give you a sense of what it's like to study engineering in college. For instance, the Engineering Summer Academy at Penn University or Duke's Summer Academy for High School Students are great programs to consider.

Finally, start researching universities known for their engineering programs and understand the admissions requirements for each one. This will help you identify grades, SAT/ACT scores, and other qualifications you need to aim for to improve your chances of getting accepted.

While engineering can be a challenging field, it can also be highly rewarding. Remember that dedication and genuine passion for the field will always help guide you on your path. Best of luck with your preparations!