How to prepare best for a college engineering program?

I'm a high school junior really interested in engineering. What are some good ways to prepare myself for college-level engineering courses? Are there specific classes or extracurriculars I should focus on?

Firstly, it's fantastic to hear about your interest in engineering! In terms of classes, taking the highest levels of math and science your high school offers is a great starting place. Courses like Calculus, Physics, and Chemistry can lay a solid groundwork for the type of theoretical thinking you'll do in college engineering courses. If your school offers Computer Science or any engineering-specific courses, those would be advantageous as well.

As for extracurricular activities, joining a robotics club or team can provide real-world engineering experiences. Some high schools also offer participation in engineering competitions or fairs. If those aren't available, you could seek out similar opportunities in your community.

Additionally, consider finding a mentor in the field—perhaps a teacher, a local engineer, or even a college student or professor. They can offer insights into what to expect from an engineering program and potentially give you some hands-on experiences.

Amazing extracurriculars would help demonstrate your "spike" in engineering on your applications. Strive for tier 1 or 2 activities, such as winning a national science fair or leading a successful major project in a club related to engineering.

Keep in mind that while these steps will help you prepare, they also serve to demonstrate your dedication to learning and engineering when you apply to colleges. Demonstrating your commitment to the field brings your application to life and helps you stand out. For instance, if you've been part of designing and building a robot in a team setting, it's a clear indicator to colleges that you're ready to take on engineering coursework and contribute to their programs.

Lastly, you might also explore online resources or coding bootcamps to further build your engineering skills and differentiate yourself from other applicants. These add an additional layer of dedication and might also offer you a point to discuss in your essays or interviews.

I hope you find this helpful! It's an exciting journey you're beginning, and taking these steps will both prepare you for your future engineering program and give you a solid foundation when applying to colleges. Best of luck in your preparations!