BREAKING STEREOTYPES: MY JOURNEY FROM CLASSICAL HIGH SCHOOL TO ENGINEERING
Today I want to share my experience of transitioning from a classical high school to engineering. My name is Mariapia, I’m 22 years old, and I grew up in the world of classical studies, until I found myself among circuits and transistors here at the Politecnico di Torino.
Deciding to enroll in engineering was an important and, I admit, frightening step. The first year was particularly difficult. The scientific subjects were a real challenge, especially for someone like me, who had a primarily humanities background. Mathematics and physics required a different approach compared to classical subjects, such as Greek and Latin. But fortunately, fear didn’t take over, and here I am, in my third year of Electrical Engineering.
Overcoming Preconceptions
The first step is to break free from prejudices. It’s often thought that those who attended classical high school are unsuitable for scientific studies, but I’m not the only one disproving this stereotype. A classical education develops analytical skills, critical thinking, and a solid cultural foundation—skills that prove valuable in any field, including STEM subjects.
Although fewer in number, over these three years at the Politecnico di Torino, I’ve met other girls who, like me, decided to pursue engineering with a humanities background. We shared the initial fear of not being able to make it, but also the strength and determination to face it.
The Advantages of a Humanities Background in Engineering
As the years went by, I realized that my high school education often proved to be an advantage. The ability to write and communicate effectively, analyze complex problems, and think critically are all skills I acquired in classical high school that have been useful in engineering. Moreover, the discipline and time management I learned during my high school years turned out to be essential for handling the workload.
Life as an Out-of-Town Student
As an out-of-town student, I also had to face the challenge of adapting to a new city and a new life. Turin is a perfect city for the university experience, but at first, it wasn’t easy to cope with being far from home and managing university commitments. However, living on my own taught me the importance of independence and, at the same time, of forming lasting relationships. I learned to organize myself better, balance study and social life, and find my own equilibrium.
Don’t let prejudices or initial difficulties discourage you. The skills you acquired in classical high school will be useful in ways you can’t imagine. Engineering needs people with diverse perspectives and backgrounds, and you can make a difference.
Have the courage to learn things outside your comfort zone, seek support from your classmates and professors, and never stop believing in your abilities.