Is pursuing a minor worth it?
I’m currently finishing my courses at community college and plan to transfer to a university in Spring 2019 to complete a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering. I’m contemplating adding a Mathematics minor. From what I can gather, I should only need to take one or two more classes after transferring. However, I’ve come across many negative opinions about minors, so I’d like to get your thoughts on whether it’s a valuable pursuit or not.
Deciding whether to pursue a minor while completing your major can be a significant choice, especially in a demanding field like mechanical engineering. Here are some points to consider regarding a minor in Mathematics:
Relevance to Your Major: A minor in Mathematics can complement your engineering studies. Many engineering concepts are math-heavy, and having a stronger foundation in math can enhance your problem-solving skills and analytical abilities.
Career Opportunities: Having a minor may set you apart from other candidates during job applications. While not every employer will prioritize a minor, having one in a relevant field can demonstrate your commitment to furthering your knowledge and skills.
Personal Interest: If you enjoy mathematics and are passionate about the subject, pursuing a minor could be fulfilling and rewarding. It’s important to balance your workload with your personal interests and career goals.
Workload Considerations: Assess whether you can realistically manage the additional classes without compromising your performance in your major courses. Engineering programs can be intensive, so ensure that adding a minor won’t lead to burnout.
Future Education: If you’re considering graduate school later, having a solid math background can be advantageous, as many engineering graduate programs have rigorous math prerequisites.
Networking and Resources: A minor can provide additional opportunities for networking and accessing resources within the mathematics department, such as research, tutoring, or workshops.
Ultimately, whether a minor is worth it depends on your individual goals, interests, and the specific opportunities available to you through your educational institution. If you think the minor will enrich your education without overwhelming you, it could be a great addition to your degree!