Engineering Sequence Fall Semester Journey at BSE
Exploring the EGR Sequence at Princeton: A Student's Perspective
The Engineering (EGR) Sequence at Princeton University is a unique set of courses designed to provide a solid foundation in physics and mathematics for engineering students, including those majoring in Computer Science. This structured sequence ensures students meet the Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) requirements by combining theory with practical engineering applications.
For Computer Science BSE students, the EGR sequence offers a pathway to satisfy the physics and math requirements integral to their curriculum. While the exact EGR course components specific to Princeton were not directly found in the search results, the sequence generally encompasses physics courses like mechanics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics, spread over one or two semesters. Mathematics courses typically include calculus sequences, differential equations, and linear algebra relevant to engineering computations.
During the fall semester of their second year, the author embarked on their EGR journey, starting with EGR 151, a course taught by Professor Claire Gmachl. This course covered the basics of physics through lectures and labs. Despite the fast pace and conceptual challenges, the author found the EGR Sequence an academic highlight of their first year at Princeton.
The author struggled initially due to a lack of physics background but found office hours invaluable for gaining clarity on problem sets and forming bonds with classmates. The final lab in EGR 151 was a design project where students created a lecture desk extender. The first lab involved designing a puzzle using Creo, a computer-aided design software.
The author chose the EGR Sequence over the Math/Physics Sequence because it aligns with their background in math and physics. They strongly advise attending professor or TA office hours for students currently in the EGR sequence. The author also recommends utilizing resources such as the PAA, Assistant Dean in residential college, and academic advisers for students considering the EGR sequence.
The spring semester promises more exciting opportunities, with the author set to delve into EGR 152, a course that fulfills the second of four BSE math requirements. EGR 152 features guest speakers from Princeton’s Graduate School, who discuss how the concepts learned apply to their research. The author finds the EGR Sequence valuable for providing a foundation in how they would apply engineering concepts in the future, particularly as a computer science major.
In conclusion, the EGR Sequence at Princeton offers a structured set of physics and math courses within the engineering curriculum designed to fulfill BSE degree requirements relevant to Computer Science students, ensuring they have the necessary scientific and quantitative skills foundational to their engineering education. For precise course titles, credit requirements, and how they fulfill Princeton’s BSE guidelines, consulting Princeton’s official engineering academic catalog or website would be necessary.
Engaging in the EGR Sequence at Princeton opens up diverse career paths for engineering students, particularly those majoring in Computer Science, by offering education-and-self-development opportunities in physics and mathematics. As the author experienced, this sequence not only fosters personal-growth through challenging coursework but also cultivates a deep understanding of engineering, preparing students for their future careers. Moreover, the pursuit of learning doesn't stop within the EGR classes; students are encouraged to leverage resources like office hours, PAA, Assistant Dean in residential college, and academic advisors for continued development.
