I want to do an interview for my ELA PBL because I want to learn from a source that I can directly communicate on a professional and personal level. An interview would also offer me hindsight on someone’s path and learned from what he/she did right and wrong.
My physics project relates to civil engineering, a major that I am considering as the clock for my college ticks down. I want to have an idea of what exactly civil engineers do, their income, leisure time, stress level, recommended courses, etc. That is why I did an interview with one of my dad's colleagues who has been in the civil engineering industry for over a decade.
Interview
Q: What made you choose civil engineering?
A: Well, it's a combination of a lot of factors. One major thing was that my father wanted me to go into the engineering or medical field. I really didn't like medicine so I gave a shot in engineering, since I was pretty good in math and science. And once I had chosen engineering, my father recommended me to do civil engineering and my brother to do architecture, so we could open a company together. Unfortunately that never happened!
Q: What are the requirements for one to become a civil engineer?
A: An engineering degree. (Laughs). Honestly, I think if one has the passion for math, logic, and physics, you'd be a perfect fit. But it takes a creative mind, and that's what makes distinguishes between the big shots that make bucks and employees that rot in the offices.
Q: Describe your typical workday.
A: Usually, there's a long term project that me and my group work on, so most of my time goes out on that. But majority of the time is spent in offices in my case and in fact, majority of civil engineers do the same, except if they are the managing the actual construction site. So out of the time in the office, a lot of cost estimates are done, planning of models, sketching, and government regulations are looked upon.
Q: How's the stress level?
A: Well at first, like every job, it's pretty tough. You have to put in the effort and the more you do at first, the easier it become in the long run. I am in a pretty good state when it comes to rank in my company, so I can usually take off and I don't have to report on very strict terms. But it's important to be self concerned and know when you should make up time. Stress wise, it's pretty good as I get a lot of time with family; however, at times when there is a major project deadline around the corner, it can get a bit hectic.
Q: Is there a lot of traveling?
A: In my particular case, no. However, at times when you have meetings with clients, you might have to go out of state, but it's not an everyday thing.
Q: If you don't mind, can you share your financial income?
A: Not a problem. On average, a civil engineer major ends up making between 75K and 100K, but thanks to my experience, my salary is a pretty good one around 110K annually.
Q: What are your biggest tips to high school and college student?
A: Chase your dreams and don't care about the money. If you have the passion for anything, you'll end up being happy. But you have to be willing to work hard. If you are, then success will chase after you.