#079 How to Build the Right College List for Engineering Majors with Jennifer Stephan

Flourish Coaching

Jul 18, 2023

In this episode, Lisa and Jennifer discuss:

Pros and cons of universities versus colleges (and how each might work better for your student).
Review your student’s college list, recognizing what is different, and understanding what options your student will have at each school.
Using experiences and extracurricular activities to understand what careers and majors fit.
College and major flexibility for engineering different degrees.

Key Takeaways:

Use the college list process to learn and educate yourself about your student and their desires, not just about the schools.
The essay questions asked by admissions give an insight into what is important to the college or university.
Starting early can only help, but it is not a cure-all. As your student moves through maturity they will grow and change.
Your student needs to do their homework to understand the requirements of the college major and make sure they fit in with the needs of your student.

“It’s great when students are doing things that interest them, not because it’s impressive to an admissions officer, but because it’s something that’s genuine and born from within and they care about. That’s when we all shine the most.” – Jennifer Stephan

About Jennifer Stephan:

Dr. Jennifer Stephan, Ph.D., has spent her entire career helping young adults achieve their academic and personal goals through her roles as a professor, academic dean, alumni interviewer, independent educational consultant, and parent.

Jennifer holds a BS degree in electrical engineering from Johns Hopkins University and an MS and a Ph.D. in electrical and computer engineering from Carnegie Mellon University.

After completing her doctorate, Jennifer spent over two decades at Wellesley College; fourteen years as a professor of computer science, followed by eight years as a class dean. In 2016, Jennifer moved to Tufts University, where she currently serves as the Dean of Academic Advising and Undergraduate Studies for the School of Engineering.

In addition to her formal roles on college campuses, Jennifer is an independent educational consultant. At Lantern College Counseling, Jennifer specializes in mentoring young students preparing for careers in STEM program admissions, including those interested in computer science and engineering.

Episode References:

College Essays: flourishcoachingco.com/college-essays

Episode #058 Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Computer Science Admissions with Jennifer Stephan
Episode #057 College Admission by Major with Andy Borst

Get Lisa’s Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career…(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

https://courses.flourishcoachingco.com/howtoguideyourteen-free-training