Application Time: Be Strategic with the Major Your Child Chooses

Recognize that colleges seek to balance genders and backgrounds in different programs and applicants that provide that balance are more valuable to a college. For example, women earn over 57% of all bachelor’s degrees, but only 19% of engineering degrees. A female applicant with a demonstrated interest in engineering may stand out more than an equally qualified male applicant as admissions officers strive to create a balanced and diverse class. The same would go for a male applicant that applies to a nursing program. At Soaring Eagle College Consulting, we work with applicants to make sure that they apply to majors that fit their interests and application theme, and wherever possible, boost their odds of admission.  Remember, major selection is not set in stone.  Most colleges allow students to changes majors rather easily.  Check with the colleges your child is applying about their policies for changing majors.