Engineering

If you want to apply to competitive colleges, top grades, a rigorous curriculum, and well-rounded extracurricular activities are needed.  Here and here is advice on how to prepare in each grade for top engineering schools. 

Even at less competitive colleges, extracurricular activities that allow you to explore engineering, such as science fairs, contests, internships, etc. are important to the schools you'll be applying to.  Check out the Extracurricular Activities page for examples or search for other opportunities.

 Structured Summer Programs are important to allow you to explore engineering specialties and gain hands-on experience.  This and your other Extracurricular Activities help build a strong resume.

The list of colleges to the right are great options beyond the most competitive schools.  Even if you apply to the competitive colleges, consider putting some of these on your list as backups.  Honors Programs at these schools will give you a more rigorous education, special attention, and privileges not offered to other students.  Some of these schools may give merit scholarships if you meet their criteria, but there is no guarantee.

On a college website, look at the Engineering Department's page to review their subspecialties, minors, resources/equipment, and current research or projects to determine which features are most important to you.

Determine if you'll need a graduate degree in engineering for your career goals, and if so, consider an accelerated BS/MS degree program.

Apply by the Early Deadlines, if available.

Supplemental College Essays should capture your interest in engineering. It could elaborate on what drove you to the exact field of engineering you wish to pursue. Show admissions officers that you are a candidate who would bring unique experiences to their school. 

For more information on careers in engineering and colleges that offer your major click here.