Take a look at what AIAA groups at universities are doing. In designing and building RC aircraft to lift weight, they do a little bit of everything.

Aerodynamics
Structures
Powerplants
Control systems
Report writing
teamwork!
Etc....

Look to all the astronauts, airline pilots, engineers, etc., who fueled their passions while designing and building model aircraft.

My student organization flies blimps at sporting events and has earned scholarships for academic excellence and community service by giving talks to local elementary schools.

Ben Trapnell
Assistant Professor
John D. Odegard School of Aeropace Sciences
University of North Dakota
Faculty Advisor, UND Aerospace R/C