Here are five free summer activities that can help high school students determine which engineering majors are the best fit:

1. Participate in free online engineering design challenges, such as those offered by NASA, National Academy of Engineering, or Engineering Go For It. These challenges provide students with real-world problems to solve using engineering principles and creativity. By engaging in these activities, students can explore different engineering disciplines, such as aerospace, mechanical, or environmental engineering, and determine which areas they find most exciting and rewarding.

2. Attend virtual engineering workshops, seminars, or webinars hosted by universities, professional organizations, or companies. These events often feature presentations by engineers from various disciplines, allowing students to learn about the latest advancements and challenges in the field. Many of these events are free and open to the public, providing students with valuable opportunities to expand their knowledge and network with professionals.

3. Create a personal engineering portfolio showcasing your projects, designs, and ideas. Use free digital tools, such as Canva, Wix, or Google Sites, to create a visually appealing and informative portfolio. Include detailed descriptions of your projects, highlighting the engineering principles and skills you applied. Share your portfolio with mentors, teachers, or peers to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement. This activity will help you reflect on your strengths and interests within engineering and determine which majors align best with your skills and passions.

4. Conduct virtual tours of engineering facilities, such as manufacturing plants, research laboratories, or construction sites. Many companies and universities now offer free virtual tours, allowing students to explore the inner workings of engineering facilities from the comfort of their own homes. During these tours, take notes on the different engineering disciplines involved and the technologies and processes used. Reflect on which aspects of the facilities you found most fascinating and consider how they relate to specific engineering majors.

5. Engage in self-directed learning by reading engineering blogs, articles, and books written by professionals from various disciplines. Websites like Medium, IEEE Spectrum, and Engineering.com offer a wealth of free content on engineering topics, from cutting-edge research to industry trends. As you read, take notes on the subjects that capture your interest and the engineering majors that are most closely related to those topics. Use this knowledge to inform your decision-making process when considering which engineering majors to pursue.

By immersing themselves in these free summer activities, high school students can gain a deeper understanding of the diverse world of engineering and make informed decisions about which majors best fit their interests and goals. With curiosity, initiative, and a commitment to self-discovery, students can lay the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in engineering.