Any tips for an anxious electrical engineer?

Hello all,

I was recently accepted into the University of Connecticut’s Electrical Engineering program.
I didn’t really get into math and science until my junior year of high school. It was like a light bulb just switched and now I love math and science.

My only worry is that I will not be able to handle the workload. Im anxious to learn and practice, and I have lots of electronics and computer experience, but I’m pretty scared.

I think that I have the drive and motivation to work hard, but I’m a bit frightened that I won’t be able to adjust to the workload right away.

Anyone have any advice to push past the anxiousness of a tough engineering curriculum?

Thanks
Ryan

What math and science classes have you taken already? You might have already seen some of the information in the first year curriculum.

I have taken Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calc and Calc. I’ve also taken Chemistry and Calc based Physics

Then you’re ahead of the game, especially if you’ll be retaking calc and physics during your first year instead of skipping ahead (for example, with AP credit). You’ve been exposed to the concepts before. Your old thread cited a pretty good GPA – assuming you’ve kept up that level of achievement since then, you’ll be well prepared. Just come in ready to work. Go to office hours and help sessions, form study groups, read the book, do the homework, seek out extra practice problems. It’s not impossible, just a lot of work.

I agree 100% with what @bodangles said, except for one thing. Retaking Calculus and Physics MIGHT be the right option, but you can know for sure if you’ll be wasting your time and money and missing out on the advantages of being ahead by doing something simple. Get the old syllabi and tests. Usually they can be found online, but if not, the department will very likely email some to you if you tell them why you want them. Take the tests. If you are like a fish out of water, retake the classes. If they seem easy, there’s no reason to repeat. If you’re a little rusty, you can brush up on Kahn Academy.

Also know, engineering is hard. Even the best and brightest have to put in work to be successful. If you find it challenging, you won’t be alone.

Good luck!

@eyemgh 's advice is very true. I retook calc and (since I’m in ChemE) chemistry, but I know others who skipped ahead and did equally well.