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Becoming an Engineer: The Average Person's Guide to Getting Good Grades and Succeeding in Engineering and STEM School
Are you struggling with engineering or STEM school? Do you want higher grades and to graduate with a higher GPA? This book will help. Entering the world of engineering and STEM isn’t just for “brainiacs". Anyone can succeed in this arena, but it does require dedication and attention to critical skills. In this book about how to start your science and engineering career, author and engineer Jake Ryland shares seven practical steps for good grades and continued success in the world of engineering. Drawing from his own experience as a struggling student, Ryland emphasizes the importance of a proper foundation and avoiding common pitfalls. This great study guide for STEM students covers everything from helpful test-taking tips to advice on sustaining focus and establishing the proper lifestyle in engineering and STEM school. Learning how to develop good study habits and establish a proper foundation can help anyone master the world of engineering. Ryland’s expert advice helps readers interested in engineering and STEM get past the self-imposed barriers that could be preventing them from progress in the field. "This book will be a great resource to many students" "This book fills a large gap and will provide beneficial guidance to any student"
205 pages, Paperback
Published January 20, 2021
45 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
February 20, 2025
“Becoming an Engineer” by Jake Ryland is a straightforward and encouraging guide for anyone pursuing—or considering—a STEM degree. Ryland emphasizes that success in engineering is far from accidental: it results from disciplined effort, consistent hard work, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. His personal anecdotes show that students of average background or skill can excel if they persist and remain intentional in their studies.
One of the sections I enjoyed most is the author’s emphasis on building a strong foundation (“Part 1—Comprehension”). He compares true understanding to the trunk of a tree: if you only learn one “branch” (i.e., a single application or formula) without mastering the core concepts that hold everything up, you’ll quickly fall behind. This idea resonated because it aligns perfectly with my own philosophy—I’ve often approached life and learning by trying to root myself in the basic principles before tackling more specialized topics.
Another highlight for me was the contrast between cramming and spaced repetition. He describes cramming as forging a faint path in a jungle—tread it once or twice, and it will be too overgrown to recognize later. Spaced repetition, on the other hand, is like walking that same trail repeatedly until it becomes a clear, permanent route. This was a reminder that steady, consistent practice, rather than last-minute memorization, is key not only to passing exams but also to truly retaining knowledge.
Finally, the “Efficiency Filter” was an eye-opener. The author suggests assessing every action by asking, “Will this bring progress?” If so, “How can I get the most value from it with the least wasted effort?” It’s a simple but powerful way to focus on what truly matters. Seeing this framework laid out in an engineering context helped me realize that I’ve been “engineering” my life choices this whole time—adapting processes and optimizing outcomes—often out of necessity. Reading these sections felt comforting; they showed me that an engineering mindset can be both a pragmatic and fulfilling way of approaching problems in any domain.
One of the book’s strengths is how it highlights the broader value of an engineering education, making the reader appreciate the versatility and respect engineers command across industries. As someone still weighing the possibility of switching to mechanical engineering, I found the book practical, reassuring, and honest. I hope Ryland continues to share his insights because his down-to-earth advice is a welcome contrast to many books that can be vague or overly ephemeral. If you’re feeling unsure about your path in STEM, this book just might give you the hope and direction you need.
One of the sections I enjoyed most is the author’s emphasis on building a strong foundation (“Part 1—Comprehension”). He compares true understanding to the trunk of a tree: if you only learn one “branch” (i.e., a single application or formula) without mastering the core concepts that hold everything up, you’ll quickly fall behind. This idea resonated because it aligns perfectly with my own philosophy—I’ve often approached life and learning by trying to root myself in the basic principles before tackling more specialized topics.
Another highlight for me was the contrast between cramming and spaced repetition. He describes cramming as forging a faint path in a jungle—tread it once or twice, and it will be too overgrown to recognize later. Spaced repetition, on the other hand, is like walking that same trail repeatedly until it becomes a clear, permanent route. This was a reminder that steady, consistent practice, rather than last-minute memorization, is key not only to passing exams but also to truly retaining knowledge.
Finally, the “Efficiency Filter” was an eye-opener. The author suggests assessing every action by asking, “Will this bring progress?” If so, “How can I get the most value from it with the least wasted effort?” It’s a simple but powerful way to focus on what truly matters. Seeing this framework laid out in an engineering context helped me realize that I’ve been “engineering” my life choices this whole time—adapting processes and optimizing outcomes—often out of necessity. Reading these sections felt comforting; they showed me that an engineering mindset can be both a pragmatic and fulfilling way of approaching problems in any domain.
One of the book’s strengths is how it highlights the broader value of an engineering education, making the reader appreciate the versatility and respect engineers command across industries. As someone still weighing the possibility of switching to mechanical engineering, I found the book practical, reassuring, and honest. I hope Ryland continues to share his insights because his down-to-earth advice is a welcome contrast to many books that can be vague or overly ephemeral. If you’re feeling unsure about your path in STEM, this book just might give you the hope and direction you need.
May 28, 2024
Really enjoyed this book. Very practical
April 18, 2025
ALL students should read this
The fundamentals are outlined well. I had my 6th grader read this so he understands early what fundamentals are important.
The fundamentals are outlined well. I had my 6th grader read this so he understands early what fundamentals are important.
November 14, 2025
Loved it! I want to study chemical engineering, and I needed a book to clarify some doubts. Read it incredibly fast, I was hooked!!! Would recommend :b
July 15, 2025
Really boosts your confidence!!!
I will be reading it again to lock in for the next semester of college. It has a step by step guide to build a bridge of success in engineering degree endeavors.
I will be reading it again to lock in for the next semester of college. It has a step by step guide to build a bridge of success in engineering degree endeavors.
October 7, 2024
Most of the advice applies to most people and all of it is actionable. I really liked the part where he share a study strategy. I had been implementing a version of that routine for years but the way it’s described here makes it all make sense. Great book overall. No shortcuts. Just a great manual of how to get better the right way.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews