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Considering Civil Engineering? Three Students on Why They Chose the Major and What They Love About It

Published: August 23, 2023

Author: Shannon Rooney

Looking to build a bright future in a field that just keeps growing? Check out the civil engineering major in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences (CEEES) at Notre Dame. You’ll be a part of a hands-on experience that includes field trips, undergraduate research, service projects, and national and regional project competitions. 

Below, three civil engineering majors talk about why they chose the major and what they love about it. 

Joan Deitsch '24

Major: Civil engineering

Why did you choose to major in civil engineering?

In high school, I was involved in the Envirothon competition, a natural resources management competition. This exposed me to soil science, which quickly became one of my favorite school topics, but I also really enjoyed my math classes.

By the end of high school, I was looking for something that could combine my interests. My dad suggested civil engineering. I looked into it and decided this was the major for me.

All infrastructure, everything civil engineers work on, rests upon soil and is influenced by the soil structure and properties at a particular site. In this way, I could keep my interests in soil alive, but also study the math and engineering processes that I had come to love.

Were you always interested in topics related to this major?

When most people think of civil engineering, they think of bridges, tall buildings, or roads. When I was younger, and my family went on road trips, I would study the connections in bridges and the way buildings swayed against the skyline.

So, yes, I suppose I have always been interested in topics related to civil engineering. As discussed in my answer above, as I finished high school and entered college, I became less interested in designing the connections or beams in structural systems (though I still find load paths very cool).

I want to study how a structure’s foundation is influenced by the soil in which it is built. I have found myself pulled towards geotechnical engineering, a discipline of civil engineering, that will allow me to study my dear friend soil again!

What has been your favorite class in the program and why?

Fluid Mechanics. It was taught by the CEEES department chair, Dr. Bolster, and it was just the best. Though I don’t plan to be a fluid mechanician, Dr. Bolster made the class really fun and helped us to think about how fluid mechanics applies to everyday life.

For a question on one assignment, I explained the fluid mechanics behind the scene in Brooklyn 99 (one of my favorite TV shows) when Jake goes flying backwards in a rolling chair that has an open fire extinguisher attached to it. The fun questions like these helped offset the challenges of learning how to apply the Navier-Stokes equations. All in all, it was a great time and I looked forward to going to lecture, even on Fridays!

Have you conducted any related research or independent study?

I am currently working as an undergrad researcher in Dr. Joannes Westerink’s lab, the Computational Hydraulics Laboratory .

This lab’s focus is on modeling storm surges, and I am helping to analyze tidal wave amplitude data! I have also done some research with Dr. Yazen Khasawneh, during which I learned about seismicity in the New Madrid seismic zone.

What makes the civil engineering program at Notre Dame stand out among programs like it at other schools?

The community. The program is relatively small, and I think that is one of its biggest strengths. Students get to know faculty easily because of the small class sizes.

The faculty are approachable and truly dedicated to teaching. If I have a question, my professors will work with me until I understand.

Moreover, the students support each other, rather than compete against each other. Many of my happiest ND memories were made at tables in Fitzpatrick as my friends and I got distracted from our homework and became overcome with laughter at something ridiculous.

Do you have any advice for prospective students who are considering a major in civil engineering?

Try it out! At Notre Dame, the first year of engineering is aimed towards helping students discern their interests. Take advantage of this, and don’t be afraid to talk to the professors and students who are available to talk about their experiences and interests within civil engineering.

(Also, don’t be afraid of Googling your questions. I highly recommend talking to people, rather than wholeheartedly trusting an article online, but Google can give you a general background to start from.)

Finally, when you get to campus, go to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) meetings. I have been involved with this club since my second month on campus. It’s a fun way to hear about types of civil engineering, meet other civils, and ask whatever questions you have in an informal setting. You should also join the ASCE concrete canoe club, because who doesn’t love to build a canoe out of concrete?

What are your career/post-graduate plans?

I plan to go to graduate school to study geotechnical engineering!

Finn O'Reilly '24

Major: Civil engineering (Structural concentration) Minor: Engineering corporate practice

Coming into Notre Dame, I knew that I wanted to be an engineer, but I had not narrowed down which type of engineering I wanted to major in.

I found each engineering discipline interesting and unique so it wasn’t really until my engineering discernment class in the fall of freshman year where we were introduced to the various disciplines in this course.

I can remember just being drawn to civil engineering; I loved the idea of working on large scale projects such as buildings, bridges, and roads and learning how those massive projects came together from the design phase all the way to the completion of construction.

Overall, I felt like civil engineering was the major in which I can see myself best using my skills to be a force for good by working towards providing safe infrastructure for my surrounding community.

Yes, I always loved math and science from a young age, and in high school, I really began to focus more on those subjects and even participated on the engineering team where I applied that knowledge of math and science to solve engineering problems.

Growing up, I was also always amazed by skyscrapers and bridges, and I knew I wanted to learn about how those structures were created.

Finally, I grew up in a family of engineers, my dad and both of my grandpas majored in different types of engineering, and I loved helping them with projects around the house or just listening to them talk about their careers throughout my childhood.

My favorite class in the program so far has been reinforced concrete design, which I took this past spring semester. I loved the class because we learned how to apply all the fundamental engineering principles that we had been learning since freshman year in order to actually design the structural members that compose buildings and bridges.

Moreover, the class involved a semester-long project in which we each individually performed the preliminary, partial design of a 5 story office building. I found this project to be very rewarding because it was a culmination of all the design principles we had learned in class, and it also really sparked my interest into the design element of civil engineering.

I conducted research in the Computational Hydraulics Lab at Notre Dame with Dr. Westerink this past semester where I primarily focused on developing a code to extract the centerlines of river channels that were not already included in the lab's model.

The goal was ultimately to be able to add the channels into the existing model to more accurately predict compound flooding events. I made good progress in extracting the centerlines from the data this past spring and overall had a great experience working in the lab.

The professors are so knowledgeable and passionate about the subject areas that they teach, which creates a very strong learning environment.

The professors make themselves available to help you with school work and career advice as well as offer excellent opportunities to do research with them if you are interested in learning more about civil engineering.

It is very evident that all of the professors in the department want the best for their students and want to see their students succeed.

My best advice to prospective students considering civil engineering is to get involved with the civil engineering clubs on campus such as American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), ND Seed, Concrete Canoe, and Steel Bridge.

These clubs give you the opportunity to meet people in your major, to learn more about various aspects of civil engineering, and to have fun! I personally have been a part of ASCE and Concrete Canoe for the past two years, and I have made a number of great friends, learned a lot, and have been able to apply things I have learned in my courses.

As of right now, I am still deciding what I want to do after I graduate. Over the summer, I did a construction management internship with Anning Johnson in Chicago which I enjoyed, and then I have one more year at Notre Dame. 

I am considering potentially doing the one-year master's of engineering at Notre Dame after I graduate, which I would do if I decide I want to go into structural design. 

Liz Chen '25

Civil engineering incorporates all the aspects of engineering and design that I love. I love the idea of being able to use my technical knowledge as well as my creative side to build fantastical structures in the future.

I really like that by becoming a civil engineer I will design structures that are tangible and that I will be able to look back on with pride.

Yes! I have always been interested in building structures in which people live and thrive. As a kid, I loved building little houses and buildings with LEGOs. The interest in building structures never faded and that is why I am majoring in civil engineering now.

It’s a bit hard to choose because the professors in the CEEES department are one of a kind. Every CEEES professor is so down-to-earth and very easy to talk to. It is very clear that they all want to see their students succeed.

If I had to choose a favorite, I would say it was a civil engineering technical elective that I took freshman year with Dr. Fargier-Gabaldon. The class was called Build, Break Perfect. In this class, we built two bridges - one spanned 12-feet and the other bridge spanned 100-feet across DeBart Quad. Putting in the work to make those two big projects succeed was one of the most rewarding experiences that I have had in college thus far.

During my major crisis, this class provided me with a lot of clarity on what I could see myself doing in the future. I actually went and declared my major right after the 12-foot bridge was finished—that was how incredible that experience was.

I have not yet conducted any research related to civil engineering. I am hoping to start a research project with one of my favorite professors this coming semester on the impacts of different types of loading on various structures.

I do not know much about the civil engineering programs at other universities, but I do know that it is rare to find a civil engineering program that gives their students the opportunity to build two bridges before the end of their freshman year.

In addition, while Notre Dame is known famously for its tight-knit community, the civil engineering community at Notre Dame really takes the community aspect to heart. There is a huge sense of camaraderie within the major and the department. Everyone is going through the same struggles, so everyone is always eager to help each other out.

If you are like me and don’t quite know what you are getting yourself into, don’t be afraid to reach out to one of the upperclassmen or professors to really understand civil engineering.

If you are already thinking about civil engineering, you should definitely try it before you toss it! Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and try the different clubs that the civil engineering community has to offer.

After graduation, I hope to go to graduate school and get my Master’s Degree in Structural Engineering. Eventually, I want to be a licensed structural engineer in the future.

• Check out the civil engineering program at Notre Dame. 
• Attend a College of Engineering Overview (Virtual or In-Person)

Read More: Robotics for Good—Nelson Badillo ’23 Uses his Engineering Education to Research and Develop Disaster Relief Robots

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The Constructor

9 reasons why you should choose civil engineering career.

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🕑 Reading time: 1 minute

1. Work within Sectors that Spread into a Wide Range :

• Geotechnical-  The Engineers of Geotechnical Engineering use the principle and theories of rock mechanics and soil mechanics for investigation . The foundation of a structure is the main focus of this sector of civil engineering.
• Environmental-  Project of this sector plays a crucial role in identifying all issues that can act as the leading causes of public health-related potential risks like water and air pollution.
• Power and Energy-  Projects of offshore wind farms and oil rigs are also included in this sector.
• Bridges-  This includes massive bridge projects .
• Structural engineering and construction, Water Resources, and Transportation.

2. Leaving a Mark in the World:

3.   making a difference in people’s life:, 4.   jobs are highly required:, 5. excellent pay potential:, 6.   no retirement:, 7.   traveling opportunities:, 8. creativity:, 9.   respected profession:, conclusion:.

Amrit Kumar

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Personal Statement: Why I Choose Civil Engineering Essay Example

The very first inspiration for me to be an engineer came from my father who is an electrical engineer and as a child I was always very much inspired from his professional works and activities. As I grew up I was amazed by various engineering works around me from massive construction works to playing with electric gadgets. Although I wasn’t sure which discipline of engineering I really like to pursue that time, but as I grew up my goals were developed more specifically from my passion towards becoming an engineering professional. Scoring GPA 5.00 out of 5.00 in both secondary and higher secondary exams was two benchmark for me and boosted my confidence to a higher level.  

After my higher secondary examination, I got admitted in Military Institute of Science and Technology, a renowned institute of Bangladesh famous for its academic excellence and disciplined environment. Only the best students got the opportunity to study here after a highly competitive admission test and rigorous screening process. This was a junction for my career where I had to choose which discipline of engineering I want to pursue. After analyzing prospects and scopes of all plausible direction, my decision was civil engineering. The reason for choosing civil engineering was because it has multidimensional academic edges; from structural, environmental, transportation, water resource and geotechnical, and a diverse nature of work and career prospect both in home and abroad.

During my undergraduate studies I got ample opportunity to develop my skills with various academic courses. I was always interested in exploring the use of engineering techniques to solve practical problems rather than strictly following the theoretical knowledge. The undergraduate curriculum of Civil Engineering Department of MIST introduced me to a wide range of subjects both in and outside the field. Various courses on environmental, water resources, structural, transportation and geotechnical engineering have prepared me with a strong foothold in both theoretical and practical concepts of engineering applications. I especially followed the new technologies and latest research in civil engineering by reading various scientific journals and papers. Beyond the academic activities, I participated in various extracurricular activities like debate competition, civil engineering software competition, with great passion and also gained various prize and awards. During my third year in undergraduate study, I was amazed to discover how the various engineering techniques can be used for the challenges of the future sustainability and natural resource management, especially environmental and water resource engineering. 

A major breakthrough for my career was becoming one of the 14 champions from International Climate champions of British Council, where I had the scope to actually judge my skills by working in the field of environment and climate change both in national and global level. I planned and implemented my own project on adaptation option to climate change, which was a floating house. I worked alone in Khepupara, a remote location of the coastal area of Bangladesh and built a floating house using indigenous materials. A major anticipated impact of climate change will be rise of sea level and the lo lying coastal zone of Bangladesh will be inundated and my aim was to show a demonstration how engineering knowledge amalgamated with indigenous techniques can be used for affordable adaptation tool, in this case the floating house for sea level rise.

My project demonstrated a sign of engineering innovation and applicability. Also, being climate champion was the opportunity for me for continues learning and development by interaction and knowledge sharing with various peoples and specialists in environment and climate change from home and abroad. This experience paid rich dividends for me and helped me to choose specific fields from the major divisions of civil engineering. During my final year, I performed my undergraduate thesis on impact of climate change on the salinization process in coastal zone of Bangladesh, and during the thesis my research skills and academic knowledge on climate change was further reinforced. Thus, the combination of working in field level and performing research work on environment and climate change boosted my confidence in a higher level.

Currently I am working as a Professional at the Center for Environmental and Geographic Information Services (CEGIS), a national center of excellence of Bangladesh. It is one of the best research organizations in water, climate and environment sector of our country. I am serving in the Climate Change Study Division and got the opportunity to work in various research projects at national and international level. I worked with various mathematical model including surface water model, irrigation and drainage model, crop yield model for predicting climate change impact on drought, hydrological model and other tools as GIS. Beside the research of the office, I am also engaged in several independent research works and have a number of publications in national and international conferences and peer reviewed journals. Also, I am actively engaged in several youth networks and groups related to climate and environment. 

I feel that my higher study will be the most convenient extension of my academic pursuits and a major step towards achieving my professional aspiration. My country Bangladesh, the low lying floodplain surrounded with numerous rivers will be a worst victim to the probable impact of climate change. In this regard, the country needs more technical assistance and resource for policy making and decision support and the young professionals with higher level of knowledge can serve the country for this purpose. I would like to apply my knowledge for the betterment of the poor people of Bangladesh who are highly vulnerable and exposed to various disasters due to climate change. I sincerely believe that it would be a colossal step towards fulfilling my dream and professional ambition.    

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55 Civil Engineering Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best civil engineering topic ideas & essay examples, 🥇 most interesting civil engineering topics to write about, 📌 simple & easy civil engineering essay titles.

• Forms of Standard Contracts in Civil Engineering The inclusion of new conditions of contracts in the construction industry is an indicator of the modernization and modification of contracts.
• Ethics and the Civil Engineer of 2025 In that regard, it can said that ethics and ethical responsibility is bordering with qualification in terms of its importance for the profession.
• Civil Engineering as a Professional Career The reason why civil engineering is dominant over other engineering disciplines is that it is broad and deals with many things such as design, building, and refurbishment of corporeal and ordinary built environment.
• Choosing the Right Career Path: Biomedical and Civil Engineering Biomedical engineers join sound skills of engineering and biological science, and so tend to have a bachelor of science and superior degrees from major universities, who are now recovering their biomedical engineering program as interest […]
• Peter Rice: Famous Civil and Structural Engineer What makes the work of Peter Rice unique is that he has the ability to step out of the limits and constraints which formed a part of his professional training; as a result he was […]
• Civil Engineering Practice and Fundamentals The book presents the results of the summit devoted to the future of civil engineering. The main subjects of the summit were the role of teachers, students, and engineer interns in the development of new […]
• Civil Engineering Assessment: Fire Safety in Buildings According to the ‘Review of the Building Regulations 2004: Section 2 Fire,’ fire safety main aims are to ensure the protection of life, achievement of sustainable development, and assist the fire and rescue services.
• Celestino R. C. Pennoni History: Civil Engineering, Education, and Environmental Programs Pennoni was the first one in his family to gain the higher education, owing to his commitment and his parents’ understanding of “the value of education”.
• Electrical and Civil Engineering Analysis Sakae M Light rail is a modern concept that is versatile in nature and it fits perfectly in the engineering visions of a bus and the heavy metro.
• Architect, General Building Contractor and Civil Engineer My configuration is ISTP, and I think that the selected occupations are a good fit for my personality as they demand specific features and qualities that I possess.
• Infrastructure: American Society of Civil Engineers The ASEC believes that the energy infrastructure is especially critical for the economy. American society makes the following suggestions to enhance the country’s infrastructure: The federal leadership in infrastructure is required.
• Developing More Sustainable Civil Engineering Practices It is possible to observe that of the better policies, which are proposed in the research and which could be applied to the sphere of civil engineering, is the development and use of new tools […]
• Civil Engineering Development: Safety & Diversity Nowadays, the development of civil engineering continues, including the involvement of women and minorities and the improvement of education, and the improvement of the safety of the constructions.
• Strategies of the American Society of Civil Engineers During the budget process, “the SPC, the Program Committee, the Finance Committee, and the Board consider the overall strategies and their viability and affordability and then allocate funds”.
• Civil Engineering During the Industrial Revolution in Britain’s History
• Quality Failure Costs in Civil Engineering Projects
• Civil Engineering: Definition, History, Functions, Branches
• Saudi Arabian Civil Engineering Construction Analysis
• The Language of Civil Engineering Research Articles
• Applications and Issues of GIS as Tool for Civil Engineering Modeling
• Civil Engineering Construction Market in Central Europe
• Civil Engineering and Reinforced Concrete Design Concerns
• Factors Affecting the Decrease of Civil Engineering Students Number
• Bayesian Methods for Structural Dynamics and Civil Engineering
• Sustainable Decision-Making in Civil Engineering, Construction, and Building Technology
• Advancements in Civil Engineering & Technology
• Frank Lloyd Wright’s Impact on Architecture and Civil Engineering
• Vibrational Based Inspection of Civil Engineering Structures
• The History and Importance of Civil Engineering
• Artificial Intelligence Application in Civil Engineering
• Advances in Materials Applied in Civil Engineering
• The Basic Concepts Essential for Structural and Civil Engineering
• Climate Change Mitigation Potential of Wood Use in Civil Engineering
• The Design of Cementitious Composites for Civil Engineering Applications
• Imbalance Between Software and Civil Engineering
• Civil Engineering: Design Construction and Maintenance
• Computer Technology and Its Application in Civil Engineering
• The Technology Advances Modern Civil Engineering
• Internet Marketing for Growing Civil Engineering Firm
• Neural Networks Usage in Civil Engineering
• Greatest Civil Engineering Achievements Review
• Use of Vegetation in Civil Engineering: Is This Still a Case?
• Uncertainty Modeling and Analysis in Civil Engineering
• Trends in Civil Engineering and Its Architecture
• The Civil Engineering Measuring Estimating and Tendering Construction
• The Factors Affecting the Career Choice of Male and Female Civil Engineering Students in the UK
• Marketing for Small and Medium-Sized Civil Engineering Companies
• Building a Future: Architecture vs. Civil Engineering
• Civil Engineering and the Different Types of Civil Engineers
• Machine Learning Techniques for Civil Engineering Problems
• Risk Assessment and Risk Communication in Civil Engineering
• Application of Optimal Control Theory to Civil Engineering Structures
• What Do Psychology and Civil Engineering Have in Common?
• Wind-Tunnel Development and Trends in Applications to Civil Engineering
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Essay on Civil Engineering

Students are often asked to write an essay on Civil Engineering in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Civil Engineering

Introduction to civil engineering.

Civil Engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on designing, constructing, and maintaining the physical environment. This includes structures like bridges, roads, canals, and buildings.

Roles of Civil Engineers

Civil Engineers play a crucial role in society. They ensure the safety and durability of structures that we use daily. They also help in planning cities and towns, making sure they function efficiently.

Importance of Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering is crucial as it directly impacts our lives. It provides us with the infrastructure we need to live comfortably, like homes, schools, hospitals, and roads.

Also check:

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250 Words Essay on Civil Engineering

Introduction.

Civil engineering is a broad discipline within the field of engineering that focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of the physical and naturally built environment. This includes infrastructure such as roads, bridges, canals, dams, and buildings.

Role and Importance

Civil engineers play a vital role in shaping the world around us. They are responsible for creating the infrastructure that supports our daily lives, from the water we drink to the roads we travel on. They ensure that our structures are safe, efficient, and sustainable, and they use their expertise to solve complex problems and improve our quality of life.

Sub-disciplines

Civil engineering is composed of several sub-disciplines, each with its unique focus. Structural engineering deals with the design and analysis of structures that must withstand loads. Geotechnical engineering involves the study of soil and rock mechanics. Transportation engineering focuses on designing and optimizing transportation systems. Environmental engineering aims to improve environmental conditions through the design of systems for water treatment, air pollution control, and waste management.

Future Scope

The future of civil engineering is promising and filled with opportunities. As cities continue to grow, there will be a greater need for infrastructure projects, creating demand for skilled civil engineers. Additionally, the push for sustainability and green technologies offers new challenges and avenues for innovation within the field.

In conclusion, civil engineering is a dynamic and vital discipline that shapes the world we live in. It combines technical knowledge, creativity, and a commitment to improving society, making it an exciting and rewarding field of study and work.

500 Words Essay on Civil Engineering

Civil engineering is a multifaceted discipline that encompasses the design, construction, and maintenance of the physical and naturally built environment. It is one of the oldest engineering disciplines, dating back to the creation of the earliest human structures. Today, the field is more vital than ever, addressing fundamental societal needs including infrastructure, transportation, and environmental sustainability.

The Scope of Civil Engineering

Civil engineering is a broad field with various sub-disciplines, each focusing on specific aspects of the built environment. These include structural engineering, which is concerned with the design and physical integrity of buildings and large structures; geotechnical engineering, which focuses on the behavior of earth materials; and environmental engineering, which addresses the sustainable use and conservation of natural resources.

Transportation engineering, another sub-discipline, focuses on the safe and efficient movement of people and goods. It involves the planning, design, and operation of transportation systems. Meanwhile, water resource engineering is concerned with the collection and management of water in both natural and built environments.

The Role of Civil Engineers

Civil engineers play a crucial role in society by designing and building infrastructure that meets the needs of a growing population. They are responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of highways, bridges, tunnels, dams, airports, and other structures. They also play a vital role in disaster mitigation and recovery, designing structures to withstand natural disasters and developing plans for recovery and rebuilding following a disaster.

Challenges and Opportunities in Civil Engineering

As our world continues to evolve, civil engineers face new challenges and opportunities. Climate change, for instance, presents a significant challenge, as engineers must design structures that can withstand increasingly severe weather conditions. At the same time, it presents an opportunity for innovation, as engineers can contribute to the development of sustainable technologies and practices.

Urbanization is another major trend influencing the field. As more people move to cities, there is an increased demand for infrastructure, presenting both opportunities and challenges for civil engineers. They must design infrastructure that can accommodate growing populations while also considering the environmental impact.

The Future of Civil Engineering

Looking forward, civil engineering will continue to play a pivotal role in society. Advances in technology, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, are expected to revolutionize the field, enabling more efficient and effective design processes. Additionally, the ongoing push for sustainability will continue to shape the field, as engineers work to develop innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

In conclusion, civil engineering is a dynamic and essential discipline that shapes our built environment. It is a field that requires not only technical expertise but also creativity, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to improving society. As we look to the future, it is clear that civil engineers will continue to play a critical role in shaping our world.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, need advice on writing a 'why engineering' essay.

Hey everyone, I'm applying for engineering programs at a few universities and they're asking for a 'Why Engineering' essay. I'm a little bit stressed about what to include to make my essay stand out. Any suggestions on which aspects of engineering I should emphasize or experiences I should share?

Hello! Writing a "Why Engineering" essay is a great opportunity to showcase your passion for the field and demonstrate your unique experiences and perspective. To make your essay stand out, consider the following suggestions:

1. Personal experiences: Reflect on any experiences that pushed you toward engineering, such as a specific project you worked on, a course you took, or an inspiring mentor. You could also mention hobbies or experiences that showcase your engineering-related skills, like problem solving, creativity, or teamwork.

2. Specific engineering subfield: Instead of discussing engineering in general terms, focus on the particular subfield you're interested in (e.g., civil, mechanical, electrical, etc.). Share what excites you about that specific area and how you see your future career path within it.

3. Real-world impact: Convey how engineering enables you to make a tangible impact on society, whether it's through sustainable technologies or innovative solutions to pressing challenges. Be genuine about what drives you to pursue engineering and how you plan to positively contribute to the field.

4. Unique perspective: Highlight any personal qualities, experiences, or values that make you a unique candidate for engineering programs. This could include your background, cultural perspectives, or any challenges you’ve overcome in pursuit of your passion.

5. School-specific connections: If possible, tie your interests back to the unique opportunities offered by the engineering programs you're applying to. Research the courses, resources, clubs, or research opportunities available at each university and mention one or two that align with your goals.

For some more advice on writing this type of essay, check out CollegeVine's "Why This Major?" essay breakdown: https://blog.collegevine.com/why-this-major-college-essay

Instead of trying to cover all these points, choose two or three that resonate with you and build your essay around them. Remember to be genuine, communicate your enthusiasm for the field, and frame your experiences in a way that showcases your potential as an engineering student. Good luck with your essay!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

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107 Civil Engineering Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Are you a civil engineering student struggling to come up with an essay topic? Look no further! In this article, we have compiled a list of 107 civil engineering essay topic ideas and examples to help you get started on your next assignment. Whether you need to write about a specific aspect of civil engineering or explore a broader topic, we have got you covered. So, let's dive in and find the perfect essay topic for you!

• The impact of civil engineering on society.
• The role of civil engineering in sustainable development.
• Exploring the history of civil engineering.
• The importance of ethics in civil engineering.
• The future of civil engineering: trends and challenges.
• The impact of climate change on civil engineering projects.
• The role of civil engineering in disaster management.
• How civil engineering contributes to urbanization.
• The challenges of infrastructure development in developing countries.
• The role of civil engineering in reducing pollution.
• Exploring the use of artificial intelligence in civil engineering.
• The impact of transportation infrastructure on economic development.
• Sustainable materials in civil engineering: opportunities and challenges.
• The role of civil engineering in renewable energy projects.
• The importance of geotechnical engineering in construction.
• Exploring the field of structural engineering.
• The challenges of designing earthquake-resistant buildings.
• Case study: The Panama Canal and its significance in civil engineering.
• Exploring the field of environmental engineering in civil engineering.
• The role of civil engineering in water resource management.
• The impact of civil engineering on public health.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable bridges.
• The role of civil engineering in waste management.
• The importance of transportation planning in civil engineering.
• The impact of autonomous vehicles on transportation infrastructure.
• Sustainability in construction: green building practices in civil engineering.
• The role of civil engineering in coastal and offshore engineering projects.
• Exploring the field of geomatics engineering in civil engineering.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable airports.
• Case study: The Burj Khalifa and its engineering marvels.
• The role of civil engineering in urban planning.
• The future of smart cities and the role of civil engineering.
• The impact of civil engineering on public transportation systems.
• Exploring the field of forensic engineering in civil engineering.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable stadiums and sports facilities.
• The impact of civil engineering on the tourism industry.
• The role of civil engineering in disaster recovery and reconstruction.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable high-rise buildings.
• Case study: The Golden Gate Bridge and its engineering feats.
• The role of civil engineering in land development and surveying.
• The impact of civil engineering on the preservation of historical structures.
• Exploring the field of transportation engineering in civil engineering.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable hospitals and healthcare facilities.
• The role of civil engineering in the mining industry.
• The impact of civil engineering on urban revitalization projects.
• The future of 3D printing in civil engineering.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable educational institutions.
• Case study: The London Underground and its engineering complexities.
• The role of civil engineering in the oil and gas industry.
• The impact of civil engineering on the accessibility for people with disabilities.
• Exploring the field of hydraulic engineering in civil engineering.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable shopping malls and retail centers.
• The role of civil engineering in the aerospace industry.
• The impact of civil engineering on rural development.
• The future of robotics in civil engineering.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable residential buildings.
• Case study: The Hoover Dam and its engineering marvels.
• The role of civil engineering in telecommunications infrastructure.
• The impact of civil engineering on the preservation of cultural heritage.
• Exploring the field of construction management in civil engineering.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable industrial facilities.
• The role of civil engineering in disaster risk reduction.
• The impact of civil engineering on the reduction of carbon emissions.
• The future of drones in civil engineering projects.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable power plants.
• Case study: The Channel Tunnel and its engineering achievements.
• The role of civil engineering in the defense industry.
• The impact of civil engineering on wildlife conservation.
• Exploring the field of transportation planning in civil engineering.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable data centers.
• The role of civil engineering in the food and agriculture industry.
• The impact of civil engineering on the reduction of water scarcity.
• The future of virtual reality in civil engineering design.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable entertainment venues.
• Case study: The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and its engineering wonders.
• The role of civil engineering in the renewable energy sector.
• The impact of civil engineering on disaster risk assessment.
• Exploring the field of soil mechanics in civil engineering.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable residential communities.
• The role of civil engineering in emergency response systems.
• The impact of civil engineering on the reduction of air pollution.
• The future of blockchain technology in civil engineering projects.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable wastewater treatment plants.
• Case study: The Millau Viaduct and its engineering accomplishments.
• The role of civil engineering in the tourism and hospitality industry.
• The impact of civil engineering on the preservation of natural habitats.
• Exploring the field of construction materials engineering in civil engineering.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable transportation hubs.
• The role of civil engineering in the defense against natural disasters.
• The impact of civil engineering on the reduction of noise pollution.
• The future of nanotechnology in civil engineering applications.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable commercial buildings.
• Case study: The Three Gorges Dam and its engineering marvels.
• The impact of civil engineering on the reduction of food waste.
• Exploring the field of coastal engineering in civil engineering.
• The challenges of constructing sustainable recreational facilities.
• The role of civil engineering in climate change adaptation.
• The impact of civil engineering on the reduction of plastic waste.
• The future of augmented reality in civil engineering design.
• Case study: The Palm Jumeirah and its engineering feats.
• The role of civil engineering in the telecommunications industry.

Now that you have a wide range of civil engineering essay topics to choose from, pick the one that interests you the most and start your research. Remember to focus on a specific aspect, provide relevant examples, and present your ideas in a clear and concise manner. Good luck with your essay!

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7 Reasons to Pursue a Civil Engineering Degree

Civil engineers have a vital role in building the infrastructure for communities as well as developing new real estate and maintaining existing residential, commercial, or government buildings. They ensure that every road, bridge, airport, office building, water supply and sewage plant, and mass transit system is well-planned and executed. With a civil engineering degree , you could literally change the world.

Learn how a civil engineering degree can help you better your community.

Here are some reasons students may want to pursue a civil engineering degree.

1. You like planning things.

There’s something satisfying about planning a building, a road system, or a whole development. Improvements are continually being developed for all kinds of civil engineering projects, which can then be incorporated into civil engineering plans.

2. You find applied math interesting.

Civil engineering requires many mathematical calculations, so an enjoyment of math and an aptitude for it are reasons students might want to pursue a civil engineering degree. Florida Tech will give students the mathematical background they need to become civil engineers.

3. You like working on new projects.

Civil engineers don’t repeat the same tasks over and over again. Each project is different from the ones before it, which keeps things more interesting and prevents boredom from setting in.

4. You want to create a better world.

Civil engineers have become experts in creating sustainable and environmentally friendly buildings and systems. Multiplied over many communities, the energy and emissions savings can make a real difference in the environment. Other life-improving functions can also make communities better places to live. Florida Tech’s civil engineering degree focuses on real-world projects that involve sustainability concepts and practices.

5. You want to protect communities.

Safety and security are important parts of civil planning, and civil engineers have a unique opportunity to engineer buildings and structures that keep people safe and minimize the risks of injury and harm.

6. You want to form relationships with community and industry leaders.

Civil engineers need to work with civic (and business) leaders to build communities and enhance them. If building partnerships and working with leaders stimulates your thinking, then a civil engineering degree from Florida Tech can be a vehicle that allows you to do so.

7. You’re a team player.

There’s no way a civil engineer could complete an entire project alone. Within the civil engineering major, different specialties work together, including construction management, water resource management, and subsets of civil engineering like environmental, geotechnical, structural, and transportation engineering.

A team of civil engineers with different skills is needed to complete today’s buildings and communities. Florida Tech’s civil engineering degree program has different areas students can specialize in, and encourages students to work together in teams to complete projects as part of your studies.   Download the Civil Engineering degree brochure and see how you can make your career goals a reality.

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How to Write Cornell’s College of Engineering Essay

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Vinay Bhaskara and Mariana Goldlust in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered:

How to approach the prompt, various topics to consider.

If you are applying to Cornell’s College of Engineering, you will be required to respond to the following prompt:

How do your interests directly connect with Cornell Engineering? If you have an intended major, what draws you to that department at Cornell Engineering? If you are unsure what specific engineering field you would like to study, describe how your general interest in engineering most directly connects with Cornell Engineering. It may be helpful to concentrate on one or two things that you are most excited about. (250 words)

In this article, we will discuss the prompt as well as different topics that you can cover in your response. If you are applying to a different college at Cornell, check out this article for guidance on the other prompts.

Cornell’s College of Engineering has a really strong reputation. It’s one of the strongest engineering programs in the country. This question Cornell is asking is a mix of why have you chosen the college of engineering and why have you chosen your major. 

You want to think about not only those academic goals you have and your background, but also delve into your career interests as well. Research carefully to show that you’ve done your homework on Cornell and what the engineering department offers. That is where you can elaborate on your connection to the school and its values. 

There are also so many different opportunities within the engineering school. Cornell engineering has team projects, co-ops, and more. As you do your research into these areas to learn a bit about them try to find ways, if you’re interested in engineering, to communicate that interest and connect it to Cornell’s opportunities. 

Solving a Problem In Your Community

One topic you may choose to write about is how an engineering background and your interest in engineering will impact your community. You could write about whichever community you choose, but make sure to cover what you might do as an engineer to solve a problem your community is facing. 

If you’re trying to write a winning essay, you want to show how you are a unique problem solver and might think critically about any sort of problem. Regardless of whether the problem is related to engineering or not, the ability to think critically will help any student majoring in engineering.

If you choose to write about a problem in your community you wish to solve, it might be easier to focus on one solution rather than multiple. Diving into those solutions and why you believe they will work is important and will show your ability to think critically. However, it isn’t necessarily the quality of the solution that is important, but more the quality of your analysis. 

The Diversity Issue

Another topic to write about could be the diversity problem. Answering this kind of essay could get into how you interact with people from different backgrounds and therefore bring a different perspective. Ask yourself what kind of leader you could be and how you would prioritize inclusivity. At Cornell’s Engineering school, you’ll work with groups from every background, so you must be an inclusive thinker and problem solver. 

A great essay would focus on how you can be an inclusive leader and therefore an inclusive student at Cornell. Regardless of whether you come from a diverse background, everyone must support inclusivity, especially in STEM environments. Cornell takes pride in holistically thinking about diversity and bringing in people from all different backgrounds. The school wants to make sure that the people in these backgrounds will work well together. 

Women In STEM

Similarly to the diversity issue, writing about the lack of women in engineering could be a great response to this prompt. Think critically about why this is and what steps you would take as a leader to solve this issue. No matter your gender, everyone can address this topic as it will be prevalent throughout every engineer’s career. If this topic is something you’re passionate about, definitely consider writing about this when thinking about your essay. 

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Why I chose Civil Engineering

I was a bright student from the starting of my schooling. I decided to choose to study the science stream which contains physics, chemistry and mathematics.

Whenever I used to see a large structure like bridges or tall buildings, a curiosity inside me. Once during class 12 th,  I saw a  television show on National Geographic named Mega Structures related to Burj Khalifa. This was the exact moment of my life when I decided to choose civil engineering.

I was a creative one from my childhood. I was quite interested in the drawings. As a civil engineer, I love to plan a house on Auto CAD including exterior on REVIT Architecture.

If you are a civil engineer than Auto CAD is a very important software for you where you can show your creativity. I had watched another show about Palm Island in Dubai which introduced me to the miracles of architecture and civil engineering.

Civil engineering is very important all over the world as building and maintaining structures will always be important. Travelling to different countries was also an exciting reason to choose civil engineering because the demand for civil engineers in every country always going to exist. If you love to travel and explore the world you should definitely select civil engineering.

I always wanted to make a career out of my life rather than just having a job, and hopefully, if things go well I will end up with my own engineering company and be my own boss.  It is not as difficult as people think to start your own civil construction company. You just need to gain experience in civil engineering like site engineering, Auto CAD designing, 2D and 3D designing etc. and we can start our own company.

Payscale was also a factor when we choose any stream of engineering. In civil engineering, salaries increase exponentially with the experience.

As a civil engineer, I feel that there is always an opportunity to learn every time. Whenever a project starts there is an exciting fact that each project has its own challenges and new operational issues and I take it as a benefit for my future.

Consequently, choosing a career as a civil engineer allowed me to do something I enjoy,  to help the community, and achieve financial security at the same time.

No matter how difficult a situation becomes. I will be always ready to face challenges.  I believe civil engineering is one of that field for me in which I can show my abilities and creativity that’s why I chose Civil Engineering as my profession.

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11 reasons to study for a career in Civil Engineering

It is impossible to build a bridge, road, tunnel, or any kind of infrastructure without a team of qualified Civil Engineers. It is one of the professions that has always and will always be in high demand, and it will never become obsolete.

Construction of buildings is the most important activity we have; without the construction of houses, we would still be living in caves, struggling to survive harsh weather conditions and virtually defencelessness against wild animals. Thankfully, construction has tamed our world, making it more suited to a safe and comfortable human existence.

In addition, don’t forget to buy assignment online to write civil engineering assignments effectively and be more free while studying.

Key reasons for choosing Civil Engineering as your profession

Here are some of the main reasons why more and more students are choosing civil engineering as their career discipline:

1. Civil engineers are always in high demand . Civil engineering is one of the industries responsible for the construction of buildings intended for civilian, industrial and military use, including: residential buildings; hospitals; hotels; train stations; railways; and airports, etc. You will always find a job in this industry anywhere in the world, if you are a good specialist.

2. Civil engineering is tightly connected with the use of innovative technologies . In ancient times the design of buildings was carried out by skilled mathematicians and scientists, and there are many well-preserved buildings and structures from the past which pay testament to their knowledge, such as Roman aqueducts, Roman roads, amphitheatres, palaces, ancient Egyptian and Mayan pyramids, and not forgetting the great walls in China. But what was once a very time-consuming and paper based process has been revolutionised, with technologies such as CAD, BIM, VR and AR, which allows us to build enormous glass skyscrapers, smart highways, high speed hyperloop transport systems, and massive hydro-electric dam projects. Thanks to technological innovations the construction industry is now a highly specialised field, requiring smart and educated young people.

3. There is a large selection of jobs you can choose from in Civil Engineering, so you will not find it difficult to get hired after graduation. You will quickly have many employment opportunities in the development of various infrastructure projects all around the globe, and after one project is finished, you can move onto another project that you feel passionate about, all the time gaining valuable experience and making you even more valuable.

4. Want other people to know who you are – then this is the field where you can make your mark . Work hard and steer your career path towards landmark and high-profile construction projects. There are many great engineers people won’t forget, as their buildings and structures will be around for decades, if not centuries.

5. You will develop many new skills as your career progresses. A Civil Engineer is a specialist, who continually learns new skills that will be of great use, not only for work but also for everyday life. Among them are IT and computing, budget planning, analysis, accountancy, and project management, etc.

6. You’ll learn to apply Math and Physics in the real world. As well gaining the skills required for successful projects and constructions, you will learn to deal with everyday life problems with maximum efficiency thanks to the expert knowledge and common sense approaches you will gain in your civil engineering program, and you will learn all about ecology, finance, law, and ethics.

7. You’ll be able to bring your own ideas to life . Students in Civil Engineering have an opportunity to work on personal projects to demonstrate their original skills, giving you the opportunity to express yourself and stand out. You’ll be given the freedom to take part in exciting projects.

8. You will learn as part of a team as Civil Engineering students work in teams, most of the time. It really is a very useful skill for real life and your future career, and a valuable experience to share experiences and delegate responsibilities.

9. As a Civil Engineers you  will have many opportunities to apply your skills . Students gain not only theoretical knowledge but also real practical skills. Graduates are welcomed on plant and factory visits to see how everything works with their own eyes.

10. There is a wide choice of Civil Engineering specializations . Whether you are interested in building bridges, environment issues, studying seismology, the development of strategies to prevent harm to the environment, building infrastructure for airports, undersea cities, or maybe the next moonbase, etc., you will find an area that appeals to your interests.

11. The best news is that jobs in the sphere of Civil Engineering field are also very well-paid , and play your cards right and you could travel all around the world on exciting projects.

These are just some of the reasons why it is a good idea to connect your professional future with Civil Engineering .

Many students entering the civil engineering field will choose to follow specialties, but the first step to get into a good university is to write a compelling essay on why you want to enter the industry. Professional academic writers from Smart Writing Service , a professional paper writing service, can help you write a persuasive essay, research papers or dissertations with many original reasons on why you want to connect your future career with civil engineering.

Studying Civil Engineering, you’ll be exposed to many different perspectives for self-development and be able to develop you abilities to their potential. So study hard and don’t miss any lecturers! You’ll quickly gain all the necessary knowledge and skills to become an in demanded and well-paid Civil Engineer.

About The Author

Anthony has worked in the construction industry for many years and looks forward to bringing you news and stories on the highways industry from all over the world.

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How to Write a Great Engineering School Personal Statement

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You have spent months researching and identifying the best engineering schools, studying for and completing the SATs, GRE, or other standardized tests, and filling out tedious college applications. You are on the verge of burnout when it hits you: you have to write a personal statement.

How important is it to write a great personal statement? Ask the admissions committee, and they’ll tell you that writing a personal statement is like applying for a job. Stephen J Aguilar, an assistant professor of education at USC, reported in 2020 to Inside Higher Ed that a personal statement should be less revealing and more persuasive. At its core, the personal statement needs to answer these two questions:

• Why are you applying here?
• How do your interests and experiences align with the program or the faculty you’ve identified?

However, the importance of reading and understanding the question prompts cannot be overstated. For example, the University of Iowa College of Engineering, which places 97 percent of its undergraduates in jobs post-graduation and currently has 284 master’s and doctoral students, goes one step further to differentiate personal statements from statements of purpose .

This institution wants to know in the statement of purpose , “Why is this program a good fit for you?” By contrast, the personal statement elicits answers to the question: “Who are you?” and allows applicants to explain themselves to admissions committees regarding academic achievements and life events that have shaped them and will positively influence the campus community.

That said, a personal statement is not just an essay. It has to be intelligent, engaging, typo-free, and capable of convincing admissions reviewers that you are a better fit for their program. Fret not. With lots of research and preparation, you can submit a college essay that reflects your passion and capabilities.

Read on to learn the what, the why, and the how-to of writing great personal statements to gain admission into engineering school.

How Is a Personal Statement Evaluated?

The title "personal statement" is generally synonymous with college essays. However, some admissions professionals use it to refer more specifically to written statements that explore applicants’ program readiness and intentions if admitted. The purpose of these statements for engineering school applicants is three-fold.

First, colleges want to know that they can write well, and not just from a technical perspective. Of course, grammar matters, but perhaps more important is the ability to communicate ideas.

Second, engineering schools want to know who a student is—the nuggets that are not conveyed through a conventional application or school transcripts. This is the written equivalent of the interview question “tell us about yourself” and is the applicant’s chance to share who they are, what they want to do, and how gaining admission to this program will be mutually beneficial.

Finally, colleges want to ensure applicants are familiar with and committed to the program. The best personal statements fulfill these goals, often in 700 words or less.

Does this sound like a tall order? Here are some tips for getting it right.

Six Tips for Writing a Stellar Engineering School Personal Statement

1. Do the research

It may sound simplistic, but one of the most important (and often overlooked) steps toward getting into the right school is taking the time to research a prospective engineering program, review its admissions policies and—this cannot be overstated—read and reread its application essay prompt. Candidates who don’t sufficiently answer an institution’s question or convey some misunderstanding about the prompt or its expectations are unlikely to be admitted.

Prospective students completing the Common Application should take the time to contact each engineering school they are applying to inquire about additional admissions requirements. The Princeton Review emphasizes that a personal statement should not repeat a previously discussed part of your application, nor should its information contradict another part.

2. Go deep, not broad

Personal statement prompts tend to be targeted. Engineering schools want to know what specific qualities or experiences make each student a good fit for their programs. Common inquiries include recalling a time you solved a problem, explaining why you applied, describing your academic goals and intentions, and addressing any extenuating circumstances that might have impacted your school record. Rather than offering a broad synopsis of your life, choose the experience or intent most relevant to the question and explore it in depth.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology Graduate School offers advice for writing an in-depth personal statement for engineering schools using the “qualified match” approach. The steps include:

• Make a statement that fits the essay prompt, like “I am a dedicated and hard-working student.”
• Quantify your statement with specific details about your life. You might, for example, discuss how many hours per week you spend on school work and how you overcome any obstacles to committing that time.
• Interpret how those details make you a stronger applicant. To continue with the above example, that might include writing about the knowledge you gained during your studies, your time-management skills, your passion for learning, and your commitment to succeed despite challenges.

3. Be relevant

If a personal statement has only one goal, it is to be shown to a review committee that you are the right fit for its school. That’s why applicants to Stanford University’s Institute for Computational & Mathematical Engineering are asked to specify their personal and professional goals in their statement of purpose, as well as discuss their developments and intentions for study and life beyond their doctoral program.

Read the mission statements of each program to get a feel for what they are looking for and keep that in mind as you write. Rather than getting carried away detailing the hours you log volunteering each week, discuss experiences and activities as they relate to your academic and career goals or scientific interests. Also, be sure not to waste valuable ink rehashing information available elsewhere on your application, such as extracurricular activities or your stellar GPA.

4. Avoid gimmicks and cliches

Did you love playing with Legos as a kid? Did those plastic bricks lay the foundation for your drive to be an engineer? If so, the College of Engineering at the University of Washington suggests you are in good company, but not in a good way. Every year, the committee reads personal essays on how Legos were the building blocks of a student's career in engineering.

To stand out, engineering school applicants should avoid using cliches in their statements. Of course, setting yourself apart from other applicants is imperative, but you must do so in a meaningful and unique way. Admissions review panels have seen it all and are unlikely to be moved by creative gimmicks and attention-grabbers that do not get to the heart of what makes you a great candidate.

5. Mind your mechanics

This tip refers more to the mechanics of writing than any scientific drive, though the latter undoubtedly has a place in an engineering school personal statement. Remember when we said one of the goals of college essays is verifying applicants can communicate effectively? Applicants should consider the following elements as they prepare their outline (more on that next):

• Voice – Is your voice appropriate for the task? Is it too formal or casual? Are you using active language rather than passive and wishy-washy statements? Do you come across as academic?
• Structure – Do your ideas flow logically and support one main idea? If you are unsure where to start, know that following the reliable five-paragraph essay format is perfectly acceptable: introduction, three supporting paragraphs, and a tidy conclusion.
• Length – Engineering schools usually have a good reason for requesting personal statements with a specific word count. Those that are too short have too little to say, and those that are too long are likely to repeat the same concepts.
• Grammar – College students are expected to know and use basic grammar. Edit, edit, and then edit again.
• Completeness – Have you addressed the admissions essay prompt in full? What about any supplemental school or department-specific requests?

6. Edit, edit, edit

Writing a personal statement may seem like a herculean task, so it is tempting to push it aside when you type that final period and not look back. This is a mistake—and perhaps the biggest one you can make. Sometimes we get so caught up in our thoughts and ideas that we miss lapses in our writing, whether grammatical or contextual. To avoid this:

• Begin with an outline.
• Write the first draft.
• Write a second draft.
• Read the essay out loud.
• Review your essay again a day or two later.
• Ask parents, friends, teachers, and others to read your work.

There is never any excuse for typos, and even the slightest error can turn a committee review member off. Ask a friend or family member to review your essay for grammatical mistakes when in doubt. It may be intimidating, but the process is an excellent way to identify missing words or ideas. What's more, applicants today are blessed with the power of technology. Online tools like Grammarly are free to use and quickly catch any glaring typos.

Starting Your Engineering School Admissions Essay

One of the biggest challenges to writing a stellar college essay is simply getting started in the first place. Personal statements are, by design, personal, and that can be intimidating. Applicants also put significant pressure on themselves to write the perfect essay.

Fortunately, many colleges try to ease the burden by providing tips online. Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab offers examples of successful personal statements. Some engineering schools even post examples of successful personal statements, including MIT , Johns Hopkins University , and Cornell University . While your essay should be wholly original, these resources can guide you through creating a unique and inspirational narrative to impress admissions committees.

Aimee Hosler is a long-time journalist specializing in education and technology. She is an advocate for experiential learning among all ages and serves as the director of communications for a non-profit community makerspace. She holds a degree in journalism from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo.

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Engineering student works to improve water infrastructure

Tolulope odunola is driven to make an impact in developing communities.

After earning her bachelor's degree in civil engineering at a premier university in Nigeria, Tolulope Odunola became fascinated by the world of hydrology and water systems and set off to continue her education in environmental engineering.

She came to the University of Cincinnati for her master's degree, and the experience left such an impact she stayed for her doctorate, working under the guidance of Patrick Ray, associate professor of environmental engineering.

Odunola was named Graduate Student Engineer of the Month by the College of Engineering and Applied Science. 

Why did you choose UC?

My journey to the University of Cincinnati was quite an interesting one. I grew up in Nigeria and after earning a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, I was convinced that I needed both the exposure and improved skillset that an overseas graduate education would provide. The University of Cincinnati was not on my list initially, but upon recommendation, I browsed through the school's website and faculty profiles in my program of choice. 

After I arrived at UC, I was captivated by the beautiful architecture on campus and the diversity of nationalities represented here.

Tolulope Odunola, Graduate Student Engineer of the Month

Tolulope Odunola

My quick survey of the university revealed that UC held much promise for my development academically and careerwise, so I did not delay in submitting my application for a master's degree in environmental engineering .

I applied to UC a few days before the deadline in 2019 and I am so glad I made the right choice. After I arrived, I was captivated by the beautiful architecture on campus and the diversity of nationalities represented here. 

Why did you choose your field of study?

I am pursuing my doctorate in environmental engineering after obtaining my master's degree in the same program in 2022. I have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, and the little story of how I ended up in the field of engineering begins when I was in high school. Back then, I enjoyed science and mathematics, but I also loved fine arts and technical drawing, so I wanted a discipline that combined both innovative creativity and computation prowess. I explored the field of environmental design first and considered architecture, but I eventually decided on civil engineering, in part due to the broader scope of the field. 

As an undergraduate student, I learned about the environmental aspects of civil engineering. With time, water and environmental engineering began to stand out to me amongst other areas of specialization. I observed that there was still much room to contribute to the practice of environmental engineering in Nigeria, as well as to improve the standards, management, and sustainability practices of water resources and waste management systems. By the final year of my undergraduate program, I decided I would go onto graduate school to learn more about environmental engineering and gain skills in the area. This is how I ended up at UC in the Water Systems Analysis group under the supervision of Dr. Patrick Ray. 

Briefly describe your research work. What problems do you hope to solve?

Under the guidance of Dr. Patrick Ray, Tolulope Odunola has presented her research at several conferences, including the American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting.

My research is focused on improving the economic evaluation of water resource projects under changing climate conditions.

My goal is to make significant contributions to decision science. The design, planning and operation of water projects like irrigation dams and water supply networks is affected by climate change because the amount of water that will be available in the future for such projects is uncertain.

While climate science has advanced in recent years, there is still room for improvement to standard economic evaluation using climate vulnerability assessment methodologies.

My research aims to provide decision makers in water resources engineering with robust analysis frameworks, tools, and decision metrics for confident investment decisions under climate uncertainty. I am also exploring spatial and distributional equity considerations in economic evaluation under climate change.

Odunola is advised by Associate Professor of Environmental Engineering, Patrick Ray.

Research at UC has been positively demanding and rewarding. I am thankful for my adviser, Patrick Ray , who introduced me to the world of development projects planning, climate vulnerability assessment and decision science.

I have enjoyed working on practical projects, learning new skills, and collaborating with multidisciplinary project teams. For instance, I was funded by the Millennium Challenge Corporation for three years which introduced me to the work culture in a typical development agency.

I have learned to present my research to a non-technical audience and to understand and be considerate of different perspectives of water engineering systems modeling under climate change. I have had to think like an economist, an urban planner and an agronomist while building my hydrological models and approaching scenario analysis under climate change, for example.

I would say this is one of the blessings of graduate school — it eliminates myopic approaches to anything in life, research included. 

What are some of the most impactful experiences during your time at UC?

I have been privileged to attend and present at the American Geophysical Union fall meeting several times as well as the American Society of Civil Engineers' EWRI Congress. These conferences inspired and encouraged me to work harder on my research and make significant contributions to both science and industry. There was also the additional advantage of visiting and touring new cities during the conferences. 

Traveling for work and presentation sessions at the Millennium Challenge Corporation office in Washington, D.C., had a huge impact on me. I once toured D.C. with my family as a teenager. To return almost a decade later for work as a graduate student was amazing, to say the least. As you can expect, I took a selfie with a caption of my thoughts on the busy morning streets of D.C. and shared it with my family back home in Nigeria. 

What are a few of your accomplishments of which you are most proud?

Winning the Outstanding Student Presentation Award for the Hydrology Section at the AGU Fall Meeting in 2023, and the 2024 People's Choice Award at the University of Cincinnati's three-minute thesis competition are definitely at the top of my list.

I also have been a two-time recipient of the American Water Works Association Ohio Chapter Graduate Scholarship. Recently, I was awarded the Graduate Student Government Research Fellowship.

I am deeply grateful for the honor that accompanies these feats, but equally important and impactful was the process leading up to these awards during which I developed my research dissemination, writing, and presentation skills. 

When do you expect to graduate? What are your plans after earning your degree?

I aim to graduate within the next year and my plan is the same as it was in the fall of 2019 when I arrived at UC: to make an impact in human communities, one sustainable water resource project at a time. I look forward to being employed in the water industry as a water resource analyst and planner, and specifically I hope to work in an international development or foreign aid agency to provide developing countries with water infrastructure that is robust to uncertainties such as climate change. 

Do you have any other hobbies or involvements you'd like to share?

Outside of research, I enjoy reading historical fiction novels, creative writing, and exploring the beauty of nature. UC has also afforded me many leadership opportunities.

First, with the Nigerian Students' Association where I served as Secretary and three-time Electoral Committee Chairperson. Also, I have served for two tenures as the Vice President of my department's Graduate Student Association.

Plus, I had growth, leadership, and ministry opportunities by serving with Every Nation here at UC. I will always be grateful for the relationships I have made as a graduate student at UC; my church family, research group colleagues, Nigerian friends who made Cincinnati a home away from home, and several others too numerous to mention!

Featured image at top:  Tolulope Odunola is studying ways to improve the infrastructure that provides clean drinking water. He was named UC's Graduate Student Engineer of the Month by the College of Engineering and Applied Science. Photo/Pixabay

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What is a Literature Review and What is its Purpose?

The steps in writing a literature review, examples of literature reviews in the sciences, literature review protips, source for this guide.

• Scientific Presentations, Posters, Annotated Bibliographies
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A literature review is a survey of scholarly sources on a specific topic. Through a literature review, a researcher will identify related research that has been accomplished, and may explore appropriate methodology for that research. It provides an overview of current knowledge, allowing you to identify relevant theories, methods, and gaps in the existing research.

You need to provide context for your research in relation to what is already known. What is the existing knowledge and where does your research sit within this context? How is your project unique from other similar projects? The literature review gives you a chance to:

• Demonstrate your familiarity with the topic and its scholarly context
• Develop a theoretical framework and methodology for your research
• Position your work in relation to other researchers and theorists
• Show how your research addresses a gap or contributes to a debate
• Evaluate the current state of research and demonstrate your knowledge of the scholarly debates around your topic.

A good literature review doesn’t just summarize sources. It analyzes, synthesizes, and critically evaluates to give a clear picture of the state of knowledge on the subject.

Helpful Resources

If you'd like to learn more about best practices in scientific communication, try these resources:

Paeez, V. (2022). I think and write, therefore you are confused : technical writing and the language interface (1st ed.). CRC Press. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003194835

Kelly, A. (2020).  How scientists communicate : dispatches from the frontiers of knowledge . Oxford University Press.

• Step 1 - Find Literature
• Step 2 - Is it Relevant?
• Step 3 - Themes, Debates, Gaps
• Step 4 - Develop Outline
• Step 5 - Write Review

Step 1 : Search for Relevant Literature

Once you have you have clearly defined your topic and have your keywords/phrases ready, search a wide range of sources to find relevant literature, including: WorldCat Discovery (Library's catalog) to find books and documents, Google Scholar, and core databases in your field. Don't forget to search for technical reports, patents, and government documents too.

Remember to use  Boolean operators  to refine your search.

You can't read everything, so try this approach to make an initial decision on articles:

• Read the article abstract - if it sounds related then
• Read the findings, results, or summary of the research results - if it still sounds relevant, then
• Go back and read the entire article
• If not, discard it and move on

When you find useful book or article, check the bibliography/references to find other relevant sources. The number of of citations an article has (i.e. the number of times other authors have cited a publication) can be an indicator of its importance to the field, but beware of self-citing and ghost citations that can make an article look more critical than it is.

When you get to the point in your search that you are seeing the same articles and authors over and over, you've done a good, comprehensive search.

Step 2 - Evaluate What You Find - Is It Relevant?

As you search,  be thinking about the following questions  as you do your research:

• What question or problem is the author addressing?
• What are the key concepts and how are they defined?
• What are the key theories, models, and methods?
• Does the research use established frameworks or take an innovative approach?
• What are the results and conclusions of the study?
• How does the publication relate to other literature in the field? Does it confirm, add to, or challenge established knowledge?
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the research?

Step 3 - Identify Themes, Debates and Gaps in the Literature

As you do your research, begin organizing your literature review’s argument and structure, be sure you understand the connections and relationships between the sources you’ve read. Based on your reading and notes, you can look for:

• Trends and patterns (in theory, method or results):  do certain approaches become more or less popular over time?
• Themes:  what questions or concepts recur across the literature?
• Debates, conflicts and contradictions:  where do sources disagree?
• Pivotal publications:  are there any influential theories or studies that changed the direction of the field?
• Gaps:  what is missing from the literature? Are there weaknesses that need to be addressed?

This step will help you work out the structure of your literature review and show how your own research will contribute to existing knowledge or how it fits into the whole.

Step 4 - Develop an Outline for Review

There are various approaches to organizing a literature review:

Chronological

The simplest approach is to trace the development of the topic over time. Make sure you analyze patterns, turning points, and key debates that have shaped the direction of the field. Give your interpretation of how and why certain developments occurred.

You can organize your literature review into subsections that address recurring, central themes or different aspects of the topic. For example, if you are reviewing literature about inequalities in migrant health outcomes, key themes might include healthcare policy, language barriers, cultural attitudes, legal status, and economic access.

Methodological

If you draw your sources from different disciplines or fields that use a variety of research methods, you might want to compare the results and conclusions that emerge from different approaches. For example:

• Look at what results have emerged in qualitative versus quantitative research
• Discuss how the topic has been approached by empirical versus theoretical scholarship
• Divide the literature into sociological, historical, and cultural sources

Theoretical

A literature review is often the foundation for a  theoretical framework . You can use it to discuss various theories, models, and definitions of key concepts. You might argue for the relevance of a specific theoretical approach, or combine various theoretical concepts to create a framework for your research.

Or Combine Approaches

You may find it helpful to combine several of these strategies, particularly if your literature review is long. For example, your overall structure might be thematic, but each theme is discussed chronologically.

Step 5: Write your Review

Depending on the length of your literature review, you might want to divide the body into subsections. You can use a subheading for each theme, time period, or methodological approach.

As you write:

• Summarize and synthesize:  give an overview of the main points of each source and combine them into a coherent whole
• Analyze and interpret:  don’t just paraphrase other researchers. Add your own interpretations where possible. Discussing the significance of findings in relation to the literature as a whole
• Critically evaluate:  mention the strengths and weaknesses of your sources
• Write in well-structured paragraphs:  use transition words, and draw connections, comparisons and contrasts between sources

Writing a good literature review can be tough. You might want to take a look at examples of literature reviews others have written

• New Advances in Nanographene Chemistry New Advances in Nanographene Chemistry, by Akimitsu Narita, Xiao-Ye Wang, Xinliang Feng and Kalus Mullen. Chemical Society Reviews, 2015, 44, 6616-6643; https://doi.org/10.1039/C5CS00183H
• Girls in the physics classroom Girls in the physics classroom: a review of the research on the participation of girls in physics, by Patricia Murphy and Elizabeth Whitelegg. (2006) Institute of Physics, London, UK; https://oro.open.ac.uk/6499/3/Girls_and_Physics_Report.pdf
• Structural Optimization in Civil Engineering Structural Optimization in Civil Engineering: a Literature Review, by Linfeng Mei and Qian Wang. Buildings, 2021, 11(2), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11020066
• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Flaviviruses Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Flaviviruses, by Nicholas J Barrows et al. Chemical Reviews 2018, 118, 8, 4448–4482; https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/acs.chemrev.7b00719
• Get to Know Topic
• Find Literature Reviews
• Mine Article References, Search Authors

Become Familiar with your Topic - Handbooks and Specialized Encyclopedias

Finding introductory information for subject areas that are unfamiliar can help you identify appropriate search terms, help you familiarize yourself with materials and chemical properties, and help you focus on issues related to your research process

Handbooks, Encyclopedias and other multi-volume reference works  can help, as can graduate level textbooks. Go to the tab  Find Books, Documents & More on Your T opic  in this guide for how to find these resources.

Find Literature Reviews for an In-Depth Overview

Literature reviews are particularly helpful in finding past research on a specific topic because someone else summarizes the research in an area up to a particular date, essentially doing some of your research for you, and providing some context for that research.

Some databases provide a way to limit a search to reviews in journal articles. The following databases provide access to reviews across a wide range of disciplines:

• Annual reviews
• ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Dissertations from colleges and universities around the world; some master’s theses. Full text available for titles dated 1997 and after.
• OATD - Open Access Theses and Dissertations OATD.org aims to be the best possible resource for finding open access graduate theses and dissertations published around the world

Mine Article References, Use "Cited By" Features, Search Authors

When you find relevant articles, look at the bibliographies - the references the author used to write the article. This will lead you to additional sources. Some databases offer links to these references, and to articles that cite the relevant article you found. For example:

• The  Web of Science  database allows you to link to an authors References and do a "cited reference" search on others who have cited the original article
• SciFinder provides a "Citation Mapping" feature that allows you to search backward into an author's references and forward into articles that cite the original article
• Google Scholar provides a "Cited By" link to articles that cite the original article

Have you found an article that is cited repeatedly or know of key individuals in the field?  Use an author search to find additional sources by these experts.

Some of the materials in this guide originated from How to Write a Literature Review: Guide, Examples, & Templates, by Shona McCombes. Scribbr.com, February 22, 2019. URL: https://www.scribbr.com/dissertation/literature-review/

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