<p>Coming from just the subjects taught in high school, it is very hard to really understand what all the various STEM careers can be. I am an aerospace structural engineer. I was able to help explain to my son and my daughter what the various fields are. Neither was totally sure with their choices. So, not being sure of your choice of major is somewhat common.</p>
<p>Some schools (such as WPI) will allow you to apply and start without declaring a major (or as “engineering, undeclared” at WPI). IMHO, forcing one to declare a major when applying is insane, but many schools do. At least look at the school’s policy about transferring departments. Some schools are very restrictive about changing majors. Avoid these if possible if your son isn’t totally sure. </p>
<p>Many kids will lean toward computer engineering as it is something that they think they know something about. I have then known several that did not find it to be what they thought it would be and transferred out. Remember that computers are prevalent throughout all forms of engineering and it is almost impossible to find a major that doesn’t involve some kind of computer operation. You can get your fill of computers in that way.</p>
<p>There are many ways to get at least some insight into what the various forms of engineering does. Talk to any engineers you might know. Most will bore you to death (almost) with what they are currently working on. Visit engineering schools and specifically ask to talk to some of the students (or even professors). Again, they’ll probably talk quite a bit.</p>
<p>You can also look at various engineering companies (Boeing or United Technologies, for example) and go to their careers section. Look at the various engineering job descriptions and they will describe what they are looking for, in other words; what they do.</p>
<p>Good luck, this is the fun part for your son.</p>