Student post by Nataly Segundo, class of 2021

The Engineering/Architectural Design ROP course is offered at Montclair High School on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3 to 5:30. In this course, you will be able to design, draw, create and build residential structures and small scale houses. This course gives each student the opportunity to learn what it takes to be an architect and engineer, whether it is through computer-aided design (CAD) or hands-on activities. In this course, you will be able to design, draw, create and build residential structures and small scale houses. This course gives each student the opportunity to learn what it takes to be an architect and engineer, whether it is through computer-aided design (CAD) or hands-on activities.

The first semester of this course is focused on the field of engineering. With the AutoCAD program, students create a set of drawings, providing multiple views for objects with the given dimensions and design city views using both one and two-point perspectives . Later in the course, students are taught how to use the program SolidWorks, which is much more popular in the engineering industry. With it, they are given the opportunity to design a CO2 dragster car, build it out of a wooden block, paint it, and race it with the rest of the class.

In the second semester, the course focuses on architecture and construction. Students learn architectural terms and the different regions that make up a house, including styles and effectiveness of roof and kitchen designs. They are now taught how to use the program Revit where they create their own set of house plans for different styled houses. Students are introduced to the process of building a house and wall/roof structure, and later, get to create a wall (to scale) and design their own roof truss out of balsa wood.

This class will require dedication, some patience, an open mind, and time to complete all projects and assignments, including a few notes. All the work given in this class is completed there and the teacher is always around in case you have a question or need help.

I personally like that this class is very interactive and hands-on. One of my favorite projects was the CO2 Dragster car we got to design because not only did it involve active participation, but I was also able to incorporate scientific concepts like, aerodynamics, friction, motion, and drag into my design. I believe that this course is different from a regular math or science class because it puts our soft skills, like communication, active-listening, collaboration, and creative thinking, all into practice. I’ve always wanted to pursue a career in architectural design and I can say that this course has helped me confirm that this is what I want to do.

Taking a course like this is essential if you are interested in a career in Architecture or Engineering because it really offers insight, practice, and even an educational advantage over other students in college who haven’t been introduced to the actual work of this field yet.

ROP courses are offered to high school students for free. You can sign up at the Career Center or register online at the ROP website. Baldy View ROP offers a variety of courses that differ in schedule, which range from Cosmetology to Health Care occupations.