Hey Bill Nye, "I Can't Quite Decide What to Do With My Life!" #tuesdayswithbill | Big Think

TL;DR

Bill discusses his love for tinkering and how engineering is a great career choice for those who enjoy solving problems and making things.

Transcript

Hello Bill. My name is Wesley Connelly. I’m a huge fan of your works. I’m a soon to be senior in high school and like many I do not know what I want to do with my life. I love physics, chemistry, just about every science. My question is why did you pursue engineering and what advice do you have for someone who can’t choose what they want to do in t... Read More

Key Insights

• 😒 Engineering is a career path that allows individuals to use science to solve problems and create things.
• ❓ Tinkering and an interest in physics and chemistry are indicators of a potential fit for engineering.
• 🦾 Mechanical engineering encompasses the fields of bicycles and airplanes.
• ⚡ Electrical engineering may also be a suitable choice for those interested in wiring, voltages, and electronics.
• 😊 Bill emphasizes the importance of not rushing into a career decision and being proud of one's engineering background.
• 🍧 Having a solid foundation in physics and mathematics can make problem-solving and math intuitive for engineers.
• 🛟 Engineering skills are applicable in various aspects of daily life.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Bill discover engineering as a career choice?

Bill stumbled upon engineering while working at a bike shop and being fascinated by the alloys and strength of materials used in bicycles.

Q: What are some traditional engineering disciplines?

Traditional engineering disciplines include chemistry and physics, as these fields provide the foundation for understanding and creating various technological advancements.

Q: Why did Bill choose mechanical engineering?

Bill's passion for bicycles and airplanes led him to pursue mechanical engineering, which encompasses both fields. He also mentions the term "mechaero" for mechanical aerospace.

Q: What advice does Bill have for someone who can't decide on a career?

Bill advises the questioner not to beat themselves up and to explore engineering schools. He encourages them to go to college and keep an open mind, as they will eventually find their way.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Bill shares how he discovered engineering through working at a bike shop and being intrigued by the alloys and strength of materials.

• He explains that engineering involves using science to solve problems and create things, making it a suitable choice for those interested in physics and chemistry.

• Bill encourages the questioner to explore engineering schools and not feel pressured to make an immediate decision, emphasizing the importance of tinkering and finding one's own path.