What are the best college classes for mechanical engineering?

I'm planning on studying mechanical engineering in college and want to make the most out of my courses. Which classes should I prioritize or look forward to? Are there any electives that could be super beneficial?

As a mechanical engineering major, you'll be delving into a broad range of subjects. However, there are some core courses you can expect to take, regardless of the school you choose:

1. Physics: This subject makes the foundation of mechanical engineering. Expect to take multiple semesters, covering topics like motion, energy, waves, electricity, and magnetism.

2. Calculus and Advanced Math: Several levels of calculus and differential equations will form part of your engineering coursework. At times it might seem tiresome, but these mathematical concepts apply directly to physical systems.

3. Thermodynamics: This class begins with basic principles and focuses on energy conversion and its practical applications.

4. Mechanics of Materials: This is a core class where you'll learn about the mechanical behavior of various materials when subjected to different types of stress.

5. Fluid Mechanics: This course is concerned with the behavior of liquids and gases and is particularly paramount if you're interested in fields like aeronautics or naval engineering.

6. Machine Design: You'll learn about designing mechanical parts and systems, often culminating in a design project.

For beneficial electives, consider the following:

Programming Courses: Knowing how to code can be an integral skill in engineering professions. Trying out a class in Python, C++, or MATLAB can introduce you to script writing and data analysis.

Project Management: Mechanical engineers often work on projects, so understanding how to manage them efficiently can be extremely useful.

CAD (Computer-Assisted Design): Familiarity with CAD tools is almost indispensable in the mechanical engineering field. A lot of colleges offer CAD as a part of their curriculum. If yours doesn’t, take it as an elective.

Control Systems: This course provides an understanding of analyzing and designing feedback systems.

Remember that the "best" classes also depend on what you hope to do with your mechanical engineering degree. Tailoring your classes to your long-term goals, such as whether you want to enter academia, industry, or government work, can be just as important as the foundational courses.