Supporting Your Child's Dream: Overcoming Challenges in Electrical Engineering

My son wants to become an electronic engineer and has struggled with calculus in his first community college semesters. Failing his first two semesters in calculus is a significant setback, but it doesn't necessarily mean he has to give up his dream. Let's explore strategies to help him succeed and navigate the path to becoming an engineer.

Understanding the Importance of Calculus

Calculus is a foundational subject for electrical engineering. It forms the basis for understanding and applying concepts in physics, which in turn are crucial for electronics design and analysis. If your son is enthusiastic about engineering, it's essential to support him in overcoming his challenges. A key step is to address the specific reasons behind his failure and then work on improving his skills.

Seeking Professional Help

One of the best ways to overcome this challenge is through tutoring. Many students improve their grades significantly when they receive personalized attention. I, for one, was able to greatly improve the performance of my fellow students when I tutored them in calculus. A tutor can provide a new perspective on the material, helping your son grasp difficult concepts more easily.

Watching Motivational Speeches

Listening to successful individuals share their experiences and motivating stories can be incredibly inspiring. Denzel Washington's motivational speech is a great resource. His experiences highlight the importance of perseverance and the power of a positive mindset. Watching such videos can reignite your son's passion and determination to succeed.

Understanding Engineering Education

Engineering education is about problem-solving, not giving up. If your son is passionate about electronics, it's crucial to explore the reasons behind his academic struggles. Perhaps there were extrinsic factors at play, like study habits or time management, that can be improved. Encouraging him to identify the root cause can lead to a targeted improvement plan.

A Teacher's Perspective

Before completely steering your son away from electrical engineering, consider a more strategic approach. You can have him meet with a senior faculty member in the electrical engineering department at a reputable college. This meeting can provide valuable insights into the curriculum and the importance of calculus. If the professor encourages your son, and if he is willing to take the necessary steps to improve, he could still achieve his dream.

Rejection and Reapplication

Engineering colleges will likely reject your son based on his past academic performance. However, you have the option to apply simultaneously or sequentially to multiple schools. While this might result in several rejection letters, it's important to keep applying. Some institutions may offer provisional admission if they believe your son can overcome his past challenges. This stint in a different college can provide the necessary support and guidance to help him succeed in the long run.

Exploring Alternatives

Despite your efforts, there's a possibility that your son might not be ready for the rigorous demands of engineering. This doesn't mean he should abandon his dream entirely. He could opt for a different academic path that still aligns with his interests. Political science or other liberal arts disciplines may be a more suitable fit for him if he finds these areas more engaging than advanced mathematics. However, it's important to encourage him to identify his true passion and pursue it, regardless of the path.

In conclusion, supporting your son through this challenging period is crucial. Encourage him to seek help, understand the reasons for his failures, and work towards improvement. By taking a proactive and strategic approach, he can still achieve his dream of becoming a successful electrical engineer.