Hello everyone,
I recently switched my major from computer science to mechanical engineering and I’m seeking advice about how to tailor my resume for internships in this field.
Since I’m a sophomore I did not get to take courses in robotics or artificial intelligence so most of my computer science experience does not overlap with fields in mechanical engineering. I have completed Physics 1-3, Chemistry 1-2, Statics, and Differential Equations. This academic year I’ll be taking Thermodynamic, Strength of materials and a few design electives. I also intend to participate in a clubs like the Racing club(they design, build, and then race a prototype formula race car every year) and maybe a couple other Mech E related clubs for medical devices and drones.
What else can I do to build my resume and make myself a competitive candidate for internships next summer?
(I ask this because not only I’m new to the field but also because my GPA has taken a significant hit due to my performance in Computer Science so I need to really catch up to other applicants)
More on this, should I write a cover letter for my resume that explains my low GPA? because I do well in all courses that are not computer science. (lol)
Also, when I was doing CS we had a book that had lots of interview questions with answers, is there something similar in Mech E that I could utilize to prepare for interviews?
Thanks a lot.
How low is the GPA? You could potentially leave it off of your resume if necessary. Spend your cover letter on persuading them why you’re right for the position, not drawing attention to something you see as a low point.
Side note regarding the clubs: the important thing is what you contribute to the clubs and how you can discuss your contributions, so make sure not to spread yourself too thin. Better to be very involved in one club than only marginally involved in three.
Thanks. My GPA is around 2.5 (I know it’s terrible) because I have a few very low grades in my CS courses but all of my electives are A’s while math and sciences are B+ or higher. Regarding clubs I see your point, it’ll be better to be able to discuss what I learned and contributed about one thing rather than just say I was a part of multiple things and not have any skills that are transferable to a job setting.
I have some connections in the medical devices field so I might just pursue that club and hope those connections can help me find an internship.
The best way to be competitive for an internship is just keep taking ME classes and get good grades.
At many big companies, internships are harder to get than a regular employment job. There are fewer internships and competition is fierce. My company wouldn’t consider anyone with a GPA less than 3.5. Didn’t matter if you had it on your resume or not. The application required it as well as a transcript.
Smaller companies would be a better bet if your GPA is lower. But these internships are hard to find and many times you have to know someone to get in.
Bottom line. Get the GPA up.
The racing club sounds like an interesting club for resume but even more importantly for learning about projects / team collaboration. (I did Mini Baja 35 years ago and still have found memories.)
GPA is important too. You can’t change past grades, but an improving trend will be helpful. Good luck!