Software Engineer,
Facebook
In today's world, engineers must be multifaceted.
And, in an always changing field, engineers must demonstrate exemplary professionalism, have the ability to collaborate with others (including non-engineers), understand the implications of their work, and be aware of science and technology's impacts on the larger world.
Mindful of these goals, Albion College's dual-degree program in engineering fully prepares students for success in this dynamic and challenging profession.
Engineering students typically spend three years at Albion and develop a strong background in science and mathematics, gaining this knowledge in a liberal arts-focused environment. They then transfer to an engineering school, typically at a larger university, and usually complete an additional two years of study. (Albion has special arrangements with Columbia University and the University of Michigan.) In the end, students graduate with two degrees: a B.A. from Albion (in physics, chemistry, or mathematics, for example), and a B.S. degree in engineering from the transfer school.
From their first year at Albion, students will discover many pathways to a productive and successful engineering career. Stephanie Norwood, '18, plans to pursue chemical engineering, allowing her to combine her interest in both chemistry and math. Norwood appreciates the 3+2 Pre-Engineering program because of the diversity it offers. "I'm able to begin my courses in engineering, but I can also broaden my horizons with other courses and through the people I meet. I'm not secluded with just science and math students," Norwood said. Alyssa Obert, '18, initially came to Albion because of the one-on-one attention from professors. "I love that engineering involves problem solving things that people use everyday. I want to be able to improve products, whether it's a new model, better quality, or faster production," Obert said. Chuck Coutteau, '16, is drawn to civil engineering and is also pursuing policy as a member of Albion's Ford Institute. "My dream job is to be a liaison between legislators and engineers," he says.
With an extreme interest in commercial jets and their aerodynamics, Alessio Gardi, '18, plans to go into aerospace engineering. "My intention is to become a leading engineer at a major aircraft company, such as EADS Airbus or Boeing," Gardi said. John DiNunzio plans on pursuing an analog electrical engineering job in the guitar amps and effects market. He chose to come to Albion because of the small class sizes and the physics labs, which he describes as, "way nicer then any I had seen at a larger university."