The science course this year to me was unorthodox; this course was Engineering Science. I had expected on of the common sciences: Physics, Chemistry, or Biology. This uncertainty was the reason why this was my greatest growth this year. The aim of this course was to get us familiar with CAD. CAD stand for Computer-aided design; CAD is the 3D modelling of a design using computers. CAD has many functions that enable you to create models with ease. I mastered these skills through the Car Project. The Car Project’s objective was to get us to think critically. We were assigned an object containing multiple parts and were tasked to CAD these parts. We learned methods of dimensioning an object, like a caliper. A caliper is a tool that provides accurate measures of objects. Once we measured the needed dimensions, we converted this data into a CAD product. This project let us further explore the CAD software, like changing the color and texture of the object. Another CAD project we endeavored was the Engineering Solution project. This project was what we had been working towards. With the help of the Engineering Design Process, I had to engineer a solution to a problem that I faced. It enabled me to apply all of my skills and some research. My engineering problem was picking up small pieces of trash and my solution was a “Trash Roller”, which would pick up trash once it rolls over it. I was able to test it by 3D printing my model, as CAD is compatible with 3D printing software. You can see my design statement in the picture below (on the right). 

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As a result of these endeavors, my knowledge and interest in engineering has grown. It went from "nothing" to having the skills required to be able to translate my imagination into 3D models. The process also exposed me to the Design process; I was able to experience the life of an engineer. This has influenced what career I will pursue in the future.

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