An ABET-accredited program has met rigorous standards through a formal intensive review process, including ongoing self-study and periodic evaluation by academic, government, and industry experts. With its focus on specific learning outcomes and program improvement, ABET provides a standard for high-quality engineering programs.

“You know, when you have some interest, that gets you excited. That makes you get up in the morning. That makes you want to do more than the minimum. That is an important element. And that is something you can get anywhere. That doesn’t happen only at Ivy League institutions, you know.” - Dr. Rob Playter

References can help admissions officers distinguish between students who look alike on paper, those with like grades in similar classes, roughly equivalent standardized test scores, and common extracurricular activities. The strongest letters of reference are written by a current or recent (junior year) teacher who knows the student well and can provide anecdotes and details about the student beyond their grades.

Because CS is a discipline overrepresented in the applicant pool, admission as a CS major can be far more competitive than for other majors. Admission to schools as a CS major is supported with clear direction in the field reflected in activities, resume, and coursework: a strong CS “fingerprint.”

Students thrive at both colleges and universities. Fit is important. Suppose a student is the type of person who could struggle to seek out resources and develop relationships with faculty. In that case, a smaller college may be a better match than a university. On the other hand, independent and assertive students may soar at a university amidst its rich offerings.

It is common for high school and new college students to be undecided about what they want to major in during college. And, those who start college with certainty about their major often change their minds. Not being sure about what one wants to study is entirely developmentally appropriate! At the age of 18 or 19, students are still young, forming their identities, and have significant learning and growth ahead of them. Students will and should change during college. After all, that is one of the goals of education.

The COVID-19 pandemic first hit college and university campuses in the middle of the spring 2020 semester, upending traditional academic and co-curricular experiences for the entire campus community. But even as campuses shut down and students, faculty, and staff were sent home, admissions officers released decisions just as they do every March. So, what happened from there on out?