I’m a junior in high school trying to decide what college I want to go to. I’m considering Cal Poly Pomona to major in electrical engineering but from my research, I’ve heard that it is more hands-on learning rather than actual theories. I like hands-on learning but I like theoretical work even more. If I were to pursue a PhD, would I need more theoretical work? I’ve heard UCs focus more on research and I’m interested in research but unfortunately I believe my GPA will
not land me in the UC of my choice (UCLA). How will Cal Poly affect my progress in grad school and what are the benefits of a PhD? All advice is appreciated.
I would suggest at this early point that you make a point of getting internships (all through college) to see what some of these paths look like on a day to day basis. You’re right about the distinction between the two (theoretical vs. hands-on), but many people come to understand their preferences a little differently when faced with them in a real world context. For example, the hands-on folks are the ones who actually solve applications issues and work on designs which is, in some ways, theoretical, but with the benefit of getting to actually see if your theory works in the real world.
I can’t answer on Cal Poly. Would think that if you do a great job in any decent program that a PhD in EE would be an option.