I am a Civil Engineering/ Surveying Major. I work for a Geotechnical Engineer. I learn what to do on the jobs and learn why we did it that way in school.
I have done two co-op rotations with GE Energy. I would highly suggest doing a summer co-op/internship and find out what is out there.
I also agree with daniel1983, join the NSPE and any other student clubs you can. They offer free food at meetings plus you get to network with a lot of companies.
Trey