Penn Engineering Majors: Which one should I choose?

I've been accepted to Penn Engineering, but I'm still undecided about which major to pursue. I'm leaning toward either mechanical engineering or electrical engineering. Can anyone in either of these majors at Penn share their experiences and insights? I want to figure out which one would be the better fit for me. Thanks!

Congratulations on your acceptance to Penn Engineering! Both mechanical and electrical engineering are excellent majors, and choosing between them comes down to your personal interests and strengths.

Mechanical engineering focuses on the design, analysis, manufacture, and maintenance of various mechanical systems, including machines, engines, and tools. If you're interested in working with things like robotics, automotive systems, and renewable energy technologies, mechanical engineering could be a great fit for you. At Penn, the Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics (MEAM) program encourages students to engage in hands-on projects and collaborate with faculty in cutting-edge research in areas such as nanotechnology, robotics, and biomechanics.

On the other hand, electrical engineering is concerned with the study, design, and application of electrical and electronic systems, including circuits and devices. This major may be more suitable if you're enthusiastic about telecommunications, computing, and energy systems. Penn's Electrical and Systems Engineering (ESE) department offers a diverse curriculum covering topics like signal processing, control systems, and networking technologies, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore your interests in-depth.

To help you decide which major is right for you, consider reaching out to current students or alumni in these majors at Penn, as well as chatting with professors within the departments. Familiarize yourself with the course offerings and prerequisite coursework for each major, and think about how they align with your career goals and interests. You might also want to consider getting involved in extracurricular activities or research projects related to these disciplines to get a sense of which field speaks more to your passions.

Remember, you don't have to make this decision immediately. Many universities allow students to explore various majors in their first year, giving you the chance to take introductory classes and get a feel for each discipline before committing.

Good luck with your decision, and enjoy your time at Penn!