Be Strategic with the Major Your Child Chooses

Recognize that colleges seek to balance genders and backgrounds in different programs, and applicants that contribute to 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. As college counselors 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 change majors rather easily. Check with the colleges your child is applying to about their policies for changing majors.