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Seven Steps to making yourself an attractive candidate
to colleges.
1) Take Plenty of Science and Math
Most engineering schools require at least four years
of math, including pre-calculus. Calculus and AP calculus
are even better. Engineering schools also want you to
have three years of science, including physics and chemistry.
Good grades in challenging courses like advanced chemistry
and physics also impress the admissions staff.
2) Build a Strong Academic Record
Students often get stressed about SATs or ACTs, and
although they matter, a strong academic record usually
counts for more. Students need at least a B+ average
for admission to selective schools. That said, scoring
in the upper 1200s to 1300s on the traditional math
and verbal portion of your SATs will certainly boost
your chances at top schools. Some schools may also require
SAT II subject tests in science and math. ACT scores
in the upper 20’s are very respectable.
3) Make Your Extracurriculars Count
Students who can demonstrate a serious commitment to
engineering will look good to the admissions office.
So join science and engineering clubs, and participate
in science competitions. You can also make the most
of your summer vacation by taking an internship at a
company where engineers work. Another opportunity: participate
in one of the summer programs some colleges run that
introduce you to engineering and allow you to conduct
research.
4) Do Your Homework When Selecting Schools
Look for places that match your academic goals, as
well as meet your social needs. Go online and check
out what each school has to offer. Talk to any engineers
you might know and find out where t hey went to school.
It’s always a good idea to have at least one “safety”
school. Make sure you attend an ABET-accredited school.
This is important because accreditation assures that
a program has met quality standards set by the profession—so,
in the eyes of employers, you’ll be a student
prepared for entry into the working world.
5) Get Good Letters of Recommendation
References can be critical at most schools and should
come from people who know you well. Recommendations
from your science and math teachers are a must. Summer
programs or internships in which you’ve participated
can also provide references, if you need multiple letters.
6) Take the Time to Write a Good Personal Essay
Although not every school requires an essay, it can
be important at those that do. More than anything in
your transcript, this is your opportunity to tell the
admissions board something about yourself. Talk about
something personal rather than writing about a general
topic. At a competitive school, it can be the one thing
that sets you apart from other applicants.
7) Visit the Campus
And before you go, see if you can schedule interviews
with someone in the admissions office and someone in
the engineering department. That may not always be possible,
as personal interviews are on the wane. These visits
demonstrate your interest and can make the difference
if the admissions office is on the fence about you.
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