I am glad that many pioneering and forward-thinking (what I consider the word “progressive” means) companies today are willing to work with people who are skilled and learn things fast, without necessarily having the degrees for it.
If I went back in time, I would have probably majored in computer science and mechanical/aeronautical engineering and possibly music, while still taking ecology, philosophy, biology and literature courses. At the time, the students and the teachers I met seemed incredibly boring and more interested in regurgitation than actual learning and applying ideas! Still I should personally have applied myself better.
Now time having passed, I am doing all that and have taken classes here and there. Grateful that I can work with some of these companies who get that and who value raw talent, patience and mastery more than degrees themselves.
Recently, I got asked to explain how I built some aviation and automotive components for some clients a few years ago. I explained it in notes and was asked to again put it into a paper. I am not a big fan of research papers as I think ideas can get lost in them, but I did it.
I was asked how did you figure it out? I said, “You just do.” Some things I cannot explain. I just do it. :)
Back when I was 6, I made an engine just using parts from my father’s supplies at hand. He’s always inspired me. I look forward to having my own lab some day. It is going to be called ‘Star Labs,’ inspired by the show, The Flash..