Why Electrical Engineering? Huey Nguyen

All I heard was giggles coming from my classmates as my name was announced back during my middle school graduation ceremony. Mr. Raleigh, my eighth-grade geometry teacher, had nominated me for the “Human Calculator” award. As I embarrassingly yet proudly walked up to receive my award, some immature kids yelled out, “NERD!”, as others laughed along with it. Ironically, this was the moment I first convinced myself that I should actually compliment my strengths and pursue a STEM-related career in the future.

It’s easy to say as a middle schooler, but high school is the real test in determining what my real interests and strengths are. Throughout high school, I experimented with advanced math and science classes along with Project Lead The Way (PLTW) engineering courses to help decide which major best suits me. After completing the two introductory PLTW courses and with top scores on the National PLTW End-Of-Course Test, I chose to take Digital Electronics as my specialization course for my senior year. Out of all of the new and enriching learning experiences, Digital Electronics stands out to me the most.

I’ve never genuinely enjoyed waking up at six in the morning to attend first period, but this class proved otherwise. I’m...