[HeavyTeddy]

Hi guys,

I've recently had a complete change of mind for future career plans and I'm thinking now that I'd like to go into either Aerospace, Chemical or Mechanical engineering. However, my A levels are not suitable (I do Biology, Chemistry, Psychology and Eng Lit) so I'm going to have to do a Foundation year. I'm going to be dropping Psychology or Eng Lit when I go into A2, but I was thinking if it was worth it to take up Maths for just the AS year. I know I would have to work extremely hard as I don't really have the 'natural' ability with Maths, and I'm not sure if I could cope with it along with all the other subjects (especially at A2)- this is essentially why I didn't pick maths to begin with.

The reason I'm even debating this is because I want to make sure that I'll be happy with all the Maths in engineering and if I'd enjoy it. Though at the same time I don't want it to jeopardize my eligibility when applying for foundation engineering by giving the impression to admissions tutors that I'm not suited for a Maths based career. I also really don't want to have a C or D in the AS level.

Carrying on with my other subjects would mean I'd do pretty well in all three as I'm quite comfortable with them all and I'm predicted AABB. On the other hand, there's the issue of starting the engineering year and finding myself completely miserable with it all and wanting to quit- which is want I don't want happening- because I didn't choose Maths and realise engineering is not for me.

I'm just really confused with what to do at the moment. Should I take Maths? Would it ruin my chances of getting into foundation engineering if I did do horribly bad at it? Also, for those that do do Chemical, Mechanical or Aerospace what's the Maths like and which one has the most and least Maths?

Sorry for all the questions and the massive essay. Anything is appreciated.
Thanks.

[whizz-kid]

First check the uni requirements some unis say you can't have done any subject related to engineering (ie physics and maths) to be eligible for the foundation course and some say you need maths at at least AS-level. Just be clear on that.

Secondly what made you change your mind? so late ?

[HeavyTeddy]

(Original post by whizz-kid)
First check the uni requirements some unis say you can't have done any subject related to engineering (ie physics and maths) to be eligible for the foundation course and some say you need maths at at least AS-level. Just be clear on that.

Secondly what made you change your mind? so late ?

I've checked out the Universities I'd like to go to, and most are fine with my subjects e.g Sheffield, Manchester, Nottingham, Southampton.

I picked my subjects so that I could pursue a life sciences degree or medicine. After a lot of thinking, a month ago I just came to the conclusion that I really didn't want to do medicine or a life sciences degree as I just felt they were a tad boring for me. Engineering is much more challenging and exciting and I love the idea of being able to create something from nothing and actually be able to apply my knowledge to different circumstances rather than just regurgitate information.

Do you know any details about the Foundation year that you could tell me? I've tried looking around and theres not much information about it anywhere.

[whizz-kid]

(Original post by HeavyTeddy)
I've checked out the Universities I'd like to go to, and most are fine with my subjects e.g Sheffield, Manchester, Nottingham, Southampton.

I picked my subjects so that I could pursue a life sciences degree or medicine. After a lot of thinking, a month ago I just came to the conclusion that I really didn't want to do medicine or a life sciences degree as I just felt they were a tad boring for me. Engineering is much more challenging and exciting and I love the idea of being able to create something from nothing and actually be able to apply my knowledge to different circumstances rather than just regurgitate information.

Do you know any details about the Foundation year that you could tell me? I've tried looking around and theres not much information about it anywhere.

Usually it's on the website but you might also want email them personally or check ucas for further info.