FullMetalx

I've been reading some of these old threads about petroleum engineering (a major I just applied for at A&M and Im shocked to find it that many seniors at A&M are unable to get jobs and many juniors are unable to get internships. This worries me because I thought the job outlook was supposed to be really good. I thought almost everyone with the degree in PETE would get a job, especially from A&M. Any insight?

jujuub

The field is becoming more and more saturated. Four years ago in the school I attend there were a more or less 100 Petroleum engineers undergrad students. Now that number is more than 500 and more isnt slowing down. Many schools are reaching capacity. Plus that 6 figure salary upon graduation that we saw years ago is going down as well. You could still make it in the industry but be ready for some major competition.

What sucks the most unfortunately is that everyone I spoke with who managed to get jobs said it was through personal connections and contacts. Which is sad to say. If you looking for a safer route then I would suggest chemical engineering. I'm not trying to scare you off from going into petroleum but its better to know what you are getting into.

Its a great field with many opportunities. But be prepared to fight tooth and nail to get that job.

noleguy33

I had zero personal contacts and connections and received 3 internship offers after my sophomore year with zero experience. After my junior year I received 6 offers and turned down another 8 interviews.

That said, competition is fierce. But I've noticed a majority of students don't take career day seriously. Have a good resume, talk to people, attend info sessions, write thank you notes and probably most importantly(if you have no experience), have a good GPA. Once you get that first internship, it's all downhill from there.

siobhandem

There's a glut of entry level Pet E. The only shortage is at the top, the senior positions. These require at least 10 years experience.

FullMetalx

So I shouldnt have a problem finding a job after graduating from TAMU?

noleguy33

If you don't find a job after graduating from TAMU, it will most likely be your own fault.

SobeGreenTea972

@FullMetalx

where did you receive information that A&M seniors can't get job and many juniors can't get interns?

I will be transferring to A&M in Fall 2013 for Petroleum Engineering so I'm just curious.

FullMetalx

@sobegreen
I actually read on one of these threads that people aren't able to get internships.
Its actually this one
Petroleum Engineering Internships for 2011

SobeGreenTea972

Oh I asked the Society of Petroleum Engineers ... SPE on facebook how the job outlook was they said very good.

NeoDymium

Never expect a good answer from interested parties.
Of course they would tell you that it's going well.

SobeGreenTea972

Oh i guess. I mean... what's there to lie about? When you ask someone if they're hiring and they say they're taking applications. Just's just an implied statement for no. And yes just mean yes. No beating around the bush.

NeoDymium

X Society will always say that things are going well. The American Chemical Society, for example, always sugar coats the downright atrocious numbers in chemistry employment. SPE is going to be no different.
As I said, self-interested.