Part of it depends on what you are good at. Me, I was never good with eletricity or circuits. I was best in physics, math, and chemistry. I went into chemical engineering (#2 starting salary for a BS behind computer engineering
Link) and I'm quite happy. You will have to endure a lot of math and chemistry, though the basic concepts are quite easy.
It also depends on what you plan on doing. Chemical engineers hold jobs in a very wide set of areas. Most BS chemical engineers become process engineers in a chemical plant or other manufacturing facility. They are responsible for taking care of a processing unit or a set of units, and if something happens to a piece of equipment, they have to diagnose and recommend a fix for the problem. Some BS engineers end up in HR, and some end up working for small (or large) firms that do plant design or consulting. Typically you can expect to work in a plant environment for around 5 years before you go into management. As far as types of jobs go... refineries and other chemical plants are the typical location for chemical engineers. These plants include making anything from laundry detergent to paint to ammonia. Some ChemE's end up in the semiconductor business, too. Not designing semiconductors, but in managing and developing processing techniques. EE's can design and build semiconductors, but ChemE's are much better at scale up as a lot of the processes are chemical in nature.
Now, this is information that I've gathered from various sources over the years. I've never worked in industry, and I'm working towards my PhD in chemical engineering. My recommendation to you would be to look at a few schools that have strong programs across the board in engineering. If a school lets you select your engineering preferrence in your second year, say after taking a broad intro course your first year, then that is even better. If in doubt, talk to profs in the department. See if they are taking any classes on a plant trip, and if so, see if you can go along to find out if ChemE is really what you want to do with your life.
In my opinion, the best part about a ChemE degree is the versatility it offers. When you are done, you can go into a wide range of fields. You've proven that you have the ability to learn and master some of the most difficult material in an undergrad program. If you want to get away from the chemical industry when you are done, you can easily transition into materials engineering, the semiconductor industry, etc.
Good luck with your decision. Remember, don't be afraid to change majors. However, I do not recommend dropping a major in the middle of a semester. The middle to end of any semester, when you are neck deep in difficult classes, is not easy, and it isn't going to be any easier in any other program. Tough it out (unless you are in danger of failing), and think about switching between semesters if it is that important.
If you want to know more, please drop me a PM.
Ryan
), working conditions, rate of growth in salary, etc.
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