Mathew and 76GMC,

Don is correct in stating that the first year or two of the engineering curriculum is really tough. Part of my freshman orientation into the civil/structural program was being informed that there was a larger drop-out rate in engineering than in any other field of study (including pre-med). That was 25 or 30 years ago, but the statistic is more than likely still close.

The truth is that no matter what you are wanting to do with your life, it's going to take commitment and endurance. The great thing about engineering, is that you don't have to stay in the pure engineering field in order to benefit greatly from the knowledge you will gain in "structured" problem solving. I didn't stay in engineering after graduation, but I benefit everyday from the experience of earning my degree in engineering.

Mathew, the dean of my engineering college once told me that I wasn't quite as smart as some of the other students (go figure). But, that I would be an excellent student if I only approached my studies from the position of not memorizing my material, but learning where to "find" the answers. My new approach to the engineering studies resulted in my becoming an "A" student from that point on.

Both of you guys are at the point in your life where opportunities like college are MUCH easier to achieve than it will be when other "family" obligations are present. Try to stick with it!

I'd better get off of this airport internet terminal and catch my flight home, or I'll be in a mess! I've been in Vegas checking out the SEMA show with Uncle Bob for a couple of days and had a great time.

Dan J