Hello all. I am doing the American Degree Transfer Program at Sunway UC. I just finished my first semester of my first year. My major is in Engineering, Chemical to be exact. I am seriously considering my future here in the States. My aim is to work as much as I can once I transfer here to settle the debts incurred when I transfer here, which is approximately RM90000 minimum per year, whereby I'll be here for two years until I graduate.

Hope all you good netizens can provide some good tips, especially on whether Chemical Engineering is viable over there in the States and what sorts of jobs can I do before and after I graduate. Also, which Universities are well known for Engineering or in my case, Chemical Engineering as you have heard or experienced from in the States? The default affiliated University is Western Michigan, which I'm not that keen on.

Thanks you very much!

Well, because I do not reside there, I do not know the rate of pay for OPT. Maybe you could provide me some insight on the minimum pay for OPT? And what about reimbursements? Such as in what form of reimbursement?



I see. But, I have heard form people that it is hard to get part time jobs in small cities compared to towns. Its not that I am a city guy, but I am interested in working part time there to get some pocket money. What about the job prospects in that so-called kampung while you were there? haha.

Well, on the other hand, my aim of studying chemical engineering is to either work in O&G companies or work in companies wanting to do research and/or development in renewable energy sources or products. So I'm wondering whether that is popular over in the States? I don't intend to work as a chemical engineer either as I can do other jobs that pay reasonably well. However, my ultimate goal is to get an MBA. I love science and yet I can't ditch the importance of the MBA. My counsellor told me that once I graduate, I'll get to work there for 1 year (or 18 months based on what you guys said about OPT) and after that 1 year, I can pursue an MBA to move my position higher up in the job market. I wonder whether that is a viable route so hope all you good people here can give me your thoughts based on your experience there. Thank you.

Ooo, but then why did SeLrAhC say that OPT can pay my tuition fee alone when you said that it is only around US$250? My tuition fee is around RM90000 per year and I have to study there for 2 years.

Well, if I can get a job that is related to my major, why not? But most probably I don't think it will happen. So, even if I go for other jobs, if the pay is reasonable, why not? haha. Plus in my mind, everything revolves around chemicals, so why not chemical engineering? I am also considering doing research on combating glabal warming (some chemical that can counter the greenhouse gases perhaps?) because I personally like doing research.

Oh, yea, I kinda do think way ahead of time. Haha. But yea, I know an engineering degree, coupled with an MBA can open many doors.

So Paul, in the States according to your experience, are chemical engineers viable there?


Ooo. 2.5-4.5? what figure is that? Interest percentage or what? Haha.

Wow, you in O&G too? As a(n) what? Do you get paid well? Haha.

Holy, really? But how and when do you apply for OPT when suppose I am a student?
Oooo, of course, good luck, dude! ()

Wowsers. Learned a lot from here o. Just a few more things. Based on all you senior's experience, which universities are good in chemical engineering in the states? Because I'm doing Chem engineering and I am aiming to get into a Uni which is reasonably cheap, good in rankings and performance, as well as close to cities so that I can work part-time (if the legislation is approved).

Thanks.