
Originally Posted by
b18hb
It would probably be more appropriate to say fields... from what I understand, a lot of interdiscipline study is going on now. (i.e. biomedical and mechanical for artifical limbs). if you want to do something with cars, mechanical and aerospace* (*for high end cars mainly).
The big thing is getting started. Until your junior year, you don't especially need to decide on a specific field of study and there will be a lot of opportunity to explore the responsibilities of each discipline. Do some research...
ASME, AIAA, ASCE, ACS, are the acronyms for some of the different engineering societies. Each of their websites will have a lot of good information for you and possibly help you to understand the roles of each in the engineering profession. There are many more societies, but you can find those on your own.
If you decide to pursue a degree, be prepared to spend a lot of time doing the work. It is not easy. It helps if you get involved and looks great on a resume. A lot of big engineering companies offer internships and co op opportunities as you move your way through your studies. Again, looks good on the resume and helps you to gain some experience.
There is a lot of financial assistance offered through various programs as your work your way through, which could relieve you a bit from the financial part of education (and maybe living also). You have to look around for it.