Oh boy! - Edit 2
Before modification by Fox and Ravens at 30/08/2009 07:16:20 PM
Started my adult life as a chemical engineer (BS and MS) prior to selling my soul for an MBA and the corporate life.
Yes, engineering school is extremely difficult, especially the first year.....which is really the "thinning out the herd" year. At my school, Rutgers, 50-52% of engineering freshmen drop out (of the major, not the school).
I'm alreayd prepared for this stage. That's why I'm actually doing my work right now...sorta.
Sadly, my advice is to never get behind during your first year.....it will be extremely difficult to catch up. I also recommend planning for a 5th undergrad year (even if you have a lot of AP credit). Engineering normally tries to pack in way more credits in its 4-year program than most. At RU, 120 credits was normal for a BA/BS, but for engineering, it was 140-145.....essentially 5 years of work. You are young, it is not a rush, just do well, even if you need an extra year. Besides, you want to enjoy college, not have to study 24/7.
Computer Science (which is in the college of Engineering) is 123 credits and is what I'm planning on. And for 3 more credits I can get a math minor. So that's my goal. And I was kind of planning on an extra year cause I want to do a coop or internship. Those can help so much.