Ash444
Its very heavily based on physics and math the subjects we do. Depending on which major, you'll probably have to pick up on specific skills aswell, like coding, breadboarding, electronics, understanding the mechanics behind bridges/buildings.
Free time wise, you don't have to be on the "year 12 grind" I'd say. You have free time if you learn how to manage your time well, week-by-week. I don't think doing engineering has impacted my happiness as such, but the depressed ones in engineering end up switching to another degree entirely. I personally love everything that we're learning, bc its so damn interesting.
Feel free to chuck us more questions!
-jinx_58