Ballston Lake, NY – Many engineering students go through their academic career, as I did, doing everything they can to avoid writing intensive classes. Math, physics and engineering classes were my jam. Still are. After all, engineers are numbers people, not words people right?
Right now I am halfway through my degree program so I figured it was time to through in a business class as an elective this summer. MBA 551, Managing People and Teams in Organizations. The first class was this past Monday. As I perused the grading portion of the syllabus, I read about the two tests and then it hit me like a punch to the face, 15-20 page paper. That may not sound like a lot to many of you, but to put it in perspective I have only had to write fifteen pages total in my previous five engineering classes combined. Writing is just not a major part of my coursework.
And in my mind, that is a colossal mistake.
Occasionally when my engineering professors have assigned a meager essay assignment they try to defend it with “in the real world, your ideas are only as good as you can communicate them.” Of course, most students (like I did) will roll their eyes at that defense, but it is 100% true. I recently had the opportunity to witness this first hand while at work . . . in the real world.
- bgaryg
Tags: ballston lake, college, engineering, english, essays, grad school, graduate school, math, MBA, mechanical engineering, new york, research paper, union graduate college, writing
As an engineering graduate (BS in IE) class of 1981, and having been working as a professional since that time, sigh! it’s seems like a long time! I would highly recommend that all engineering students brush up on their writing and presentation skills. It will make a major difference in your success. Defining and presenting your ideas, will bring you the attention that is critical for your professional growth. Don’t let anyone else present your innovations, master the skills and do it yourself. Remember that those that you are presenting to, will appreciate your youth, enthusiasm and valor.