In your first week of school, you will be taught to memorize the “definition” of systems design engineering (SYDE). This definition involves key words like holistic, multidisciplinary and global approach, but at the end of the day, the definition of system design engineering is what you decide it to be.
SYDE is similar to a “choose your own adventure” story with the most options of electives within the engineering faculty. With a solid technical background, Systems gives you the freedom to become the engineer that you want to be. Welcome to the adventure of a lifetime!
For your first year, you will be learning the traditional engineering basics, but you will also have two specialty design courses. Be aware that all core courses are SYDE specific, which means that most outside sources of tutoring won’t be applicable to your course load.
With that being said, your best resource for help is your classmates. You will meet the most amazing people in your class from different backgrounds and interests with whom you will be spending the next five years together on the sixth floor of E5. Systems is known as a tight-knit program for a reason!
With a wide selection of co-op jobs, SYDE students have worked in ergonomics, project management, software development, user interface design and even abroad with fellowships within EWB.
All in all, the engineering is tough and Systems Design presents its own challenges. If you don’t know what you want to do, don’t worry. You will figure it out through your co-op jobs, your courses, and your experiences over the next five years. Good Luck!
Leave a Reply