Should a Brooklyn Technical High School Student Pursue Civil Engineering as a Hobby?

As a Brooklyn Technical High School student, you might find yourself exploring various paths to the future. One such intriguing avenue is civil engineering, but should you consider it as a hobby?

Commencing Early: Internships and Practical Experience

From my experience, it's incredibly wise for students to gain practical experience early on in their academic journey. During my time in the civil engineering field, I came across a high schooler who decided to intern in both civil engineering and mechanical engineering firms to help him make an informed decision about his future degree.

The reasoning behind this approach is sound. Many students spend years in education before realizing that the work they thought they would love doesn't align with their real-life experiences. By exploring different fields during high school, students can make a more informed choice.

Current Status of the Construction Industry

From a broader perspective, it's important to recognize that the construction industry is thriving even amid challenges such as the ongoing pandemic. Under these circumstances, the need for skilled engineers is more significant than ever. Additionally, in regular times, students can still pursue internships by simply printing out a few copies of their resume and walking in to firms.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to succeeding in this approach:

Print out several copies of your resume and bring them to firms. Hand your resume to the managers and be sure to take their business cards. Add these managers on LinkedIn and send them a thank you email within a few days. Attach your resume in the email. If they aren't hiring, politely ask them to refer you to other companies that might be interested. Follow up and maintain a professional relationship for future opportunities.

It's worth noting that civil engineers often work within a closely-knit community, which can help in gaining referrals and career advice.

Education Requirements: An Insider’s Look

If you are passionate about engineering, then you should definitely pursue it, but it's crucial to approach this field with a serious mindset. When I graduated in 1955, the curriculum was quite comprehensive. There were eight specific courses in areas such as architecture, industrial design, chemistry, college prep, including language, four years of math, four years of English, history, economics, and additional subjects such as music, aerobatic engineering, and various other courses that weren’t top of mind at the moment.

While it may seem daunting, embarking on a career in civil engineering requires dedication and a strong educational foundation. Starting early with internships and building a network can provide invaluable insights and help you transition smoothly into a reputable firm.

Conclusion

Whether you're exploring civil engineering for fun or with the intention of pursuing it as a career, it's essential to approach it with the necessary seriousness and preparation. Utilize every opportunity to gain practical experience, whether through internships or by participating in relevant courses and projects.

By doing so, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions and set yourself up for a successful future in the field of civil engineering.