14 Important Things You Need to Know Before Studying Engineering in a Nigerian University.

These 14 important things you need to know before studying engineering in a Nigerian university. But before that, let me share a slogan that you will often use during your years of studying engineering: “GREAT ENGINEERING STUDENTS.” Your response should be “GREAT” in a deep voice, which reflects your enthusiasm. As the saying goes, “Engineering is for the determined and strong.”

One well-known engineering lecturer may say, “Engineering nr be for mumu people.”  These statements may make you feel tense and lead you to believe that engineering is extremely difficult. Some people even consider switching to a different course because of the wrong information they have heard. It’s important to understand that information is powerful, and this article will provide you with valuable insights before you embark on studying engineering at Nigerian universities. Having the correct information will make your university years more comfortable, without the pressure of potential failure.

Embarking on the journey to study engineering at a Nigerian university is an exciting endeavor. However, it’s crucial to be aware of several key aspects that will greatly influence your academic path.

Before we delve into the details of what we need to know before embarking on the study of engineering, let’s first know why we should study engineering.

Why Studying Engineering?

Engineers are indispensable for the survival of our world.

Without engineers, the world would be disorganized. They play a vital role in enhancing and improving various aspects of our planet, including infrastructure, electronics, technology, and more. If you observe your surroundings, you’ll find that almost everything you see is a product of engineering innovation.

There is prestige and honor in this profession.

During my time in university, it was a great honor to have a friend who was studying engineering. We enjoyed introducing our friends to them, and people were always impressed to be in their company. Becoming an engineer requires a significant amount of hard work.

International Privilege.

Engineering is needed all over the world. This profession creates a road map to other countries. You get exposure to international challenges.

Engineers Are Problem Providers.

From the moment you start your first year in university until the day you graduate and beyond, one of the most admirable aspects of engineering is that you will constantly be a problem solver.

Good Salary Pay.

Engineering fields offer lucrative salaries, particularly in sectors such as petroleum and structural engineering. With a few years of experience, engineers can expect significant salary increases.

Engineers Can Survive All Ground.

Engineers have the ability to learn any discipline at any time because they have confronted some of the most challenging problems in life.

Here are 14 important things you need to know before delving into the world of engineering in a Nigerian university;

1. Admission Criteria

Admission into engineering programs is highly competitive. It is not enough to meet the general cutoff for university admission; you must also attain a certain score in both the UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) and the post-UTME (Post-UME) to qualify for engineering. This rigorous selection process ensures that only the most qualified and motivated students are admitted into the program.

Your chances of getting admission into your desired university will depend on your performance in WAEC (West African Examinations Council) and UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination).

For example, WAEC requires you to have a minimum credit score in subjects such as English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and one additional subject, which can be either Biology or Agricultural Science. 

And UTME subject combination is; English language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry.

2. Prepare Yourself With Engineering Terms.

Once you have achieved the requirements mentioned earlier and your UTME score is sufficient to qualify you for your desired university, it’s time to prepare for the journey ahead. Be mentally prepared and envision yourself as a great engineer already. Remember the saying, “We conquer the world in our hearts before taking physical action.”

Familiarize yourself with the names of prominent engineers such as Michael Faraday, Nikola Tesla, Archimedes, James Watt, Thomas Edison, Frederick Taylor, Charles Augustin de Coulomb, Steinmetz, Rutherford, Henry Ford, Rahman, Graham, Armstrong, and others. It won’t cost you anything, but it’s important to become familiar with these names so that they won’t sound unfamiliar during lectures.

3. Importance of Engineering Drawing.

Engineering drawing plays a crucial role in engineering education. Starting from the first and second semesters of your second year (200L), you will engage in extensive engineering drawing coursework.

To excel in this subject, it is essential to have a strong foundation in technical drawing from your secondary school education. This prior knowledge will provide you with a significant advantage and facilitate a smoother transition into the engineering curriculum.

4. Practical Work.

Practical application is an integral part of engineering education. Engineering Laboratory (ELA) sessions provide hands-on experience with concepts learned in theory.

However, it is important to note that some Nigerian universities face challenges with equipment maintenance and updating resources. Consequently, you may encounter outdated apparatus during your ELA sessions. Instead of complaining about this situation, it is advisable to adapt and make the most of the available resources.

Adopting a flexible mindset will enable you to focus on your learning and personal growth, regardless of the limitations in equipment.

5. Distinctive Lab Coats.

Engineering students take pride in wearing their lab coats, which have a distinct color. These lab coats serve as a visible symbol of their affiliation with the engineering discipline.

When you spot someone wearing a lab coat, it immediately signifies that they are an engineering student. The lab coat becomes a recognizable marker, allowing others to identify and acknowledge the dedication and expertise associated with being an engineering student.

It serves as a source of pride and camaraderie among engineering students within the university community.

6. Respect and Prestige.

We may be rivals within the faculty, but as soon as we encounter each other outside, we begin greeting each other, sometimes loudly, so that others can hear, just to show off.

Engineering students are held in high regard within the university community. Studying engineering is known to be difficult and requires a lot of intellectual effort.

Consequently, when you mention your affiliation with the Faculty of Engineering, it often commands respect and admiration from your peers. Enjoy the sense of prestige that comes with being an engineering student and leverage this recognition to inspire and motivate yourself throughout your academic journey.

Also, as an engineering student, especially if you happen to be handsome, you may find that you attract the interest of other students, particularly those of the opposite gender.

7. Rigorous Curriculum.

Engineering programs are known for their demanding coursework. Expect to face a rigorous academic schedule that will require your full commitment and dedication.

Long study hours, complex problem-solving exercises, and challenging assessments will be the norm throughout your engineering education. Embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth and development

8. Group Work and Collaboration.

Engineering education emphasizes teamwork and collaboration. Many courses and projects require working in groups to solve complex problems. This collaborative approach nurtures important skills such as effective communication, cooperation, and collective problem-solving. Embrace the opportunity to work closely with your peers, as it will enhance your abilities to tackle real-world engineering challenges.

Also, when preparing for exams in the engineering program, it is highly beneficial to study in groups rather than studying alone. Engaging in group study sessions allows for the exchange of knowledge and insights among coursemates.

9. Emphasis on Mathematics and Physics.

Mathematics and physics form the foundation of engineering. Expect a strong emphasis on these subjects throughout your program.

Solid proficiency in mathematics and physics will enable you to grasp complex engineering concepts and apply them effectively. Be prepared to invest significant time and effort in mastering these subjects.

10. Practical Application of Knowledge.

Engineering is a practical field that requires the application of theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. As you progress through your program, you will have opportunities to engage in practical projects, experiments, and internships.

For example, when reading about friction, you should be able to create practical applications and utilize them to resolve various questions related to that field.

11. Development of Problem-Solving Skills.

Engineering education aims to develop your problem-solving abilities. As an engineering student, you will encounter complex challenges that require critical thinking, creativity, and perseverance to overcome

Embrace this aspect of engineering education as it will prepare you for the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the engineering profession.

12. Cultivate a Mindset of Continuous Learning.

Engineering is a rapidly evolving field. Technological advancements and new discoveries constantly reshape the landscape of engineering practice.

Embrace opportunities to stay updated with the latest developments, explore new technologies, and enhance your knowledge base.

13. Remember to keep your notes books in a safe place for referring purposes.

Sometimes using electronic methods can be helpful. You can convert your notebook into a PDF and save it on a flash drive. However, if you don’t have access to these resources, it’s still crucial to keep your notes in a safe place.

Don’t throw away your notes from the previous year just because you’re moving on to the next year. You will likely need them for reference and studying. This will make it easier for you to review and understand certain topics. For instance, in engineering mathematics, you may need to revisit concepts you learned in the second year when studying certain topics in the third or fourth year.

14. Begin Portfolio Early.

Group projects, hands-on experiments involving building and design, and similar projects should be considered extremely important. These activities contribute to building your portfolio.

Don’t underestimate their significance; include them as part of your projects. They will enhance your chances of securing a better internship opportunity. In engineering, projects matter more than just your academic grades.

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