I must disclose that I work for SolidWorks, before that I used SolidWorks in industry and in college along with 10 other cad software packages. I spent 5 years working for Computervision/Prime (now owned by PTC). CAD software changes - even SolidWorks changes from year to year. First, learn one cad system well, then it will be easier to adapt to others.
Let industry be your guide as to what cad tool to use.
Who are your mentors? What about the machine shop?
Try looking at Monster.com and the colleges and universities in your area.
Check out a local SolidWorks users group, there are 170+
http://www.swugn.org/ talk to other designers in your community.
If you would like to continue your SolidWorks sponsorship this year go to
www.SolidWorks.com/SponsoredDesignContest. All teams will receive SolidWorks SustainabilityXpress - what other software allows you to determine your carbon footprint of a robot part in the same user interface?
And if your really want to focus on engineering don't forget about the math.
Marie