There is a plethora of ways that I have been able to engage in hands-on work in Viterbi. Whether through my courses, outside projects, competitions, or research, I have been able to have a physical interaction with the work I do.
Course Opportunities
In courses like Electrical Engineering 202: Linear Circuits, we are constantly working with circuits, breadboards, and circuitry elements. In many of the early courses in engineering, there are always opportunities to get hands-on experience with wet lab techniques, circuitry, measurement tools, kinematic components, and the list goes on. Viterbi ensures that every engineering student get a tangible experience with the concepts that are learned in class.
Hands-On Experience With Friends
Outside of the courses themselves, there are plenty of other opportunities to have personal hands-on experience with tools and components. For example, through the Grand Challenges Scholars Program and the Associated Students of Biomedical Engineering, you can participate in annual Makeathon competitions. In these competitions, you are able to have direct contact with tools such as Arduinos, 3D printing, and other materials. All this, while having fun with friends.
The Research Way
It is also important to not forget about research. In my opinion, research is everywhere. Whether it is through the Center for Undergraduate Research in Viterbi Engineering (a program specializes to pair students with a laboratory) or individual outreach, the ability to obtain research is very accessible in Viterbi. Personally, I have been able to learn a great deal of skills that have ultimately translated to hands-on opportunities.
Regardless of the approach to engineering in Viterbi, you can be assured that you will always receive a personal one-on-one experience with engineering skills and concepts.
