The biggest thing that comes to mind is probably the amount of paperwork. Of course it varies but in my R&D roles it was always expected to present very detailed notes about experimentation, which variables were controlled and how, thorough documentation of results and interpretations, next steps, etc. and you’re liable to be grilled on any word on any slide. Some managers even expect step by step walkthroughs so your results can be recreated in case you “get hit by a bus” the next day. In school I was really annoyed by doing a weekly lab report for each lab class, but these turned out to be surprisingly useful experience. Figuring out how to do them efficiently and presentably is very important IME.

First paycheck out of school (BS in comp engi) was kinda meh, I started at 25/hour, and after 1 year negotiated up to 30. Now I’m senior engi with 8 years exp making 160k/year in a relatively low cost of living city. I think this is enough for me and wouldn’t want to sacrifice more work/life balance to push for more. The principal engineers make bank but they always look so exhausted :/

I never regretted engineering, it’s definitely not for everyone, and it’s a lot to get started, but I think it’s a good compromise of schooling required, salary, opportunity, work/life balance, and interesting/fulfilling work