Navigating the Challenges of Engineering: A Personal Journey

Engineering, especially when you first start, can be an incredibly demanding field. The road can be tough, but with determination and perseverance, you can thrive. Here’s a deep dive into the reality of engineering, combined with a personal account of how to overcome the challenges and reach your goals.

Is Engineering Really that Hard?

Engineering can indeed be tough. In fact, the first year is often the most challenging. Critical subjects, such as calculus, can set the stage for the rest of your academic journey. If you struggle significantly in your first semester, it’s crucial to reassess and consider whether you’re prepared for the ongoing difficulties.

Second and third years will naturally get harder, with final year being the most demanding. If you manage to pass calculus in your first year and still find yourself struggling, it might be time to explore other paths. However, it’s important to recognize that these are just guidelines, and everyone’s experience is unique.

A Personal Insight

My personal journey in engineering is a testament to the challenges and triumphs that come with the field. During my first year, I struggled with calculus and ignored the warning signs. Stubbornly, I continued on with my engineering studies, setting a course for potential failure. By my third year, I found myself in a difficult position, having failed the subject twice, and I ultimately dropped out.

Though that might have seemed like the end of the road for me, it was not. After a gap year, I joined the military for six years. The rigorous lifestyle in the military took my mind off the stress and provided a much-needed break. Living frugally and focusing on basic survival skills gave me the mental and emotional respite I needed.

Recovery and Dedication

After my six years in the military, I had saved enough money to return to study for a diploma in engineering. A diploma requires only 24 subjects, significantly fewer than the 48 required for a bachelor’s degree. I passed 35 subjects at university, which was more than enough to complete my diploma.

I approached the head of the engineering department, explaining my previous academic achievements. He allowed me to skip 12 subjects, allowing me to focus on the 12 remaining, easier ones. This strategy made my academic journey more manageable.

Paths to Success

With my diploma, I secured a bursary from a power utility company, which meant I would have a job waiting for me upon completion. I continued to excel, completing two sets of 6 subjects each and presenting research papers at engineering conferences.

The power utility company offered me a job as a maintenance planner, providing immediate employment as I finished my studies. This conclusion marked the successful end of my long and winding road. I eventually completed a part-time B-Tech and then a part-time research master’s degree, achieving my lifelong dream of becoming an electrical engineer at the age of 53.

Though the journey was fraught with challenges and setbacks, the ultimately fulfilling outcomes make it worthwhile. Always remember, perseverance and dedication can overcome the hardest obstacles.