I think there's some truth to the stereotype of the glasses-wearing engineer. Research shows that the number of years of study is more important than genetics in determining whether or not a person becomes nearsighted. If that's the case, then it stands to reason that the harder the study, the thicker the glasses.
My eyes were fine right after college, so perhaps it's not the studies but engineering work that damages your eyes. After just a few years staring all day at a computer screen in the office, boom - I needed glasses.
While this stereotype may be based in some truth, I've not seen any research yet that correlates years of study to the increased chance of being a nerd.
[Credit for this one goes to David Winn. His email to me said, "I was on the phone with a client yesterday and he commented that we should put out a list of social distancing tips from engineers since we are so good at it." He then gave me a list of brilliant cartoon ideas that I've attempted to recreate here.]
