Choosing engineering as a course of study in college is a common aspiration among high school students, but crafting a strong admissions application in this competitive field is not easy. We often get the question, "what types of activities would stand out for an aspiring engineer?" The answer is, find a niche and demonstrate deep engagement and success in it. Here is an example of one such niche and how a group of Princeton students are engaging with their passion for engineering.
Princeton Electric Speedboating is a team of 44 undergraduate and graduate engineers at Princeton University who design and race electric boats globally. In competitions, the team strives to advance sustainability in the marine industry. The projects undertaken by PES provide valuable hands-on experience and exposure to cutting-edge technology for Princeton students, fostering enthusiasm within the community for sustainable transportation and energy. The team comprises undergraduate students and graduate students, representing diverse backgrounds and majors, including Mechanical Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Operations Research & Financial Engineering, Economics, and Physics. The team is organized into Boat Crews for each boat, and a Marketing & Finance Team that oversees business-related aspects for the organization.
Earlier this year, this dynamic team made waves by shattering the world speed record for electric boats, achieving an impressive average speed of 114 mph. This remarkable feat surpassed the previous record by a substantial 26 mph, marking a significant milestone in marine engineering. The record-breaking moment was orchestrated with their 14-foot outboard boat, aptly named Big Bird. Featuring a hydroplane hull reminiscent of a stealth fighter plane gliding across the water, the boat was powered by a three-phase, 200-horsepower electric motor.
For those intrigued by the Princeton Electric Speedboating Team and aspiring to be part of this exciting journey, exploring their website is a great starting point. We hope that this story serves as inspiration for you to delve deeper into the field of engineering and discover your own unique way to contribute to this dynamic discipline.
If you're navigating the intricate world of college admissions, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Selective Admissions. We offer comprehensive college counseling services to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your future.