<p>So I applied as a biomedical engineering major with interest in business and/or medicine. I'm down to choosing between Case Western Reserve, University of Pittsburgh (main), and University of Michigan.</p>
<p>Could someone studying or working as a biomedical engineer please tell me what kind of rigor to expect in this major? I understand it's difficult, but people make it out as if it's impossible to do without sacrificing all your extracurriculars and social life. Is that true, or is if an exaggeration?</p>
<p>Also does anybody have an opinion on the universities mentioned above (pros & cons)?</p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>It honestly depends on your skill level and your ability to grasp complex concepts (in different subjects) quickly. If you’re the kind who is a studious kid who has to work hard to get good grades, then you’ll be devoting a LOT of time to the major. If you’re just really smart and are a very quick learner, can figure out things on exams quickly etc., then you’ll breeze through it.</p>
<p>You’ll also be taking a very wide range of classes (decently hard classes too). After you’re done with the basic engineering Calculus/Chemistry/Physics, you’ll take O-Chem, Biology, Physiology, Statics, Dynamics, Circuits, CompSci, Biomechanics, Bioinstrumentation. There’ll also be a lot of open-ended design projects and a LOT of lab-work. </p>
<p>It’s all possible without sacrificing anything, you just have to be really good at managing your time. I once heard a professor say that everyone who has a college degree has automatically double-majored, the second one being “Time Management”. It’s something you’ll learn over time as you get better.</p>
<p>All those schools you mentioned are a great choice for a BME. Just a tip: If you really want to get the degree and are sure you will stick with it, don’t get weeded out your first year. The freshman classes you’ll be taking (especially at those schools) are no piece of cake - and a ton of prospective engineers drop out of the major in their freshman year because they can’t keep up with the workload. Just be smart about the way you study, try your best and do well. Use online resources and professors’ assistance (as well as your University’s tutoring services) when you feel it’s necessary. You’ll get very far.</p>