Explore the Top 50 Universities: Pennsylvania and the South (Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, and Texas)

Katia Hua • October 25, 2023

Today is the final piece of our top 50 universities series, where we'll be discussing universities in the Southern states (Texas, North Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia), and finally, in my home state of Pennsylvania.


 

South (Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, and Texas)

During my time in college, I didn't know much about schools in the South. As a student studying in Boston, Southern schools always held a certain mysterious allure for me: traditional and conservative. It wasn't until I started working as an admissions officer that I discovered many excellent and underrated colleges in the South.

 

Virginia

University of Virginia

Founded by one of the Founding Fathers, Thomas Jefferson, the significance of the University of Virginia goes beyond being the best public university in Virginia. UVA has always been considered one of the best public universities in the United States. In the 2024 U.S. News rankings, UVA is ranked 24th nationwide. In my personal opinion, UVA is a highly regarded institution. I have visited UVA and Charlottesville, where it is located, multiple times, and I have a very positive impression of UVA. Not only because two of the consultants at BosonEd have graduated from UVA and worked in UVA's admissions office for many years, but I also really like Charlottesville. It is a university town with beautiful surroundings, convenient living, safety, and a high quality of residents. It is a very livable small city.

 

The university has a total of 17,496 undergraduate students, 8,653 master's and doctoral students, for a total of 26,149. In 2022, there were 50,926 applicants for freshmen, with 9,503 admitted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 18.66%. There were 83,368 students placed on the waitlist, of which only 7 were eventually admitted.

 

For admitted students at UVA, the 25th percentile SAT score is 1400, and the 75th percentile is 1540. 77.84% of students scored between 1400 and 1600 on the SAT. Additionally, 90% of students have ACT scores between 30 and 36. Furthermore, 85% of students rank in the top 10% of their high school classes.

 

Regarding transfer applications, in 2022, there were 3,562 transfer applicants, and 1,245 were admitted, resulting in a transfer acceptance rate of 34.95%. Although the acceptance rate is high, there is a preference for in-state students.

 

UVA excels in various fields, including Business, Engineering, International Relations, Sociology, Economics, and Biology.

 

 

North Carolina

Duke University

Duke University is the best university in North Carolina, often referred to as the "Harvard of the South." It is located in Durham, North Carolina, just a 20-minute drive from Chapel Hill. The university has a total of 6,883 undergraduate students, 10,737 master's and doctoral students, making a total of 17,620 students. In the latest 2024 U.S. News rankings, Duke is ranked 7th in the United States, solidifying its position as the top university in the South.

 

In terms of applications, the most recent data is from 2021, with 49,523 applications received. Of these, 2,911 students were admitted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 5.8%. While Duke does not disclose how many students were placed on the waiting list, they did announce that 88 students were eventually admitted from the waitlist, which is a considerable number. Regarding application materials, naturally, all components are deemed highly important: course rigor, transcripts, standardized test scores, application essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, talents, personal qualities/character - all should be outstanding. The only distinction from Ivy League schools is that interviews are not as crucial at Duke. Among admitted students at Duke, the SAT score range is from 1490, with the 75th percentile at 1560. In terms of SAT subject breakdown, 87.2% of students scored between 700 and 800 in Evidenced-Based Reading and Writing, while 88.8% scored between 700 and 800 in Math. For ACT scores, the 25th percentile is 33, and the 75th percentile is 35. Furthermore, 95% of students were in the top 10% of their high school class.

 

Regarding transfer applications, in 2012, 1,679 students applied, and only 81 were admitted, resulting in an acceptance rate of only 4.8%.

 

Duke is a very generous university, with an average need-based financial aid package of $56,197, and an average non-need-based scholarship of $78,610.

 

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) is the flagship campus of the University of North Carolina system and is often regarded, alongside the University of Virginia, as the best public university in the South. In the latest US News rankings, UNC surpassed UVA, ranking 22nd (although I personally believe UVA is a better school). Established in 1789, UNC is one of the earliest public universities in the United States (the very first being the University of Georgia, founded in 1785). Its founding principle was "the university of the people," and to this day, UNC remains a down-to-earth, accessible institution among the top 30 universities.

As of 2021, UNC Chapel Hill had 19,897 undergraduate students, 11,836 graduate students, for a total of 31,733 students. During the fall application cycle, a total of 53,776 students applied for admission. Of those, 10,347 were admitted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 19.24%. However, only 4,677 students enrolled, indicating that for many students, North Carolina may not be their first choice. This is also related to the fact that North Carolina is the top choice for students who apply for Ivies’ REA (Restricted Early Action). In undergraduate admissions, out-of-state applicants face intense competition. Of the admitted freshmen, 82% are in-state students, and 5% are international students. A total of 8,957 students were placed on the waitlist, of which 647 were ultimately admitted.

 

In the application process, course rigor, standardized test scores, application essays, and letters of recommendation are considered very important. High school GPA and class rank are deemed important. Interestingly, UNC Chapel Hill is the first school I've encountered where standardized test scores are considered more important than high school grades. UNC is a somewhat test-sensitive school, requiring students to submit standardized test scores. The 25th percentile SAT score is 1330, the 75th percentile is 1500, and for the ACT, the 25th percentile is 29, and the 75th percentile is 33. 95% of admitted freshmen have a high school GPA of 4.0.

 

Regarding transfer applications, for the fall 2021 intake, 3,554 students applied, of which 1,666 were admitted, resulting in a transfer acceptance rate of 46.88%. However, it's important to note that being a state university, state residency is highly significant in the admission process. When looking at the 46.88% acceptance rate, this factor should be taken into consideration. UNC has both fall and summer transfer enrollments, but only one application cycle and deadline.


UNC's strengths lie in fields such as media, business, chemistry, sociology, English, biology, and international relations.


Georgia

Emory University

Emory University is the top university in Georgia, located in Atlanta. In the 2024 U.S. News rankings, Emory is ranked 24th in the United States. Emory has long competed with Duke for the title of "Harvard of the South," although it's worth noting that Duke is indeed much stronger. Additionally, in my opinion, Texas's Rice University and Tennessee's Vanderbilt University are also formidable contenders in the South. This competition may be influenced by the relatively close proximity of Georgia to North Carolina.

 

Compared to Northeastern universities, Emory may lack the atmosphere of a liberal arts college, but it places a strong emphasis on professional education. Established in 1836 by the Methodist Episcopal Church, the university is named after bishop, John Emory. In the application, Emory requires students to choose between two campuses: Emory College in Atlanta and the Oxford campus, which is a 45-minute drive from Atlanta. The main Emory campus follows a more typical four-year university style, while the Oxford campus, with approximately 1,000 students, offers a smaller liberal arts college atmosphere. After two years at Oxford, all students complete their final two years of study at the main campus. Emory's strengths lie in programs such as the business school, biology, chemistry, quantitative sciences, political science, nursing, and neuroscience.

 

As of 2022, Emory had a total of 7,101 undergraduate students and 7,751 graduate students, for a total of 14,852 students. For undergraduate admissions, there were 33,179 applications received, with 3,767 students admitted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 11.35%. Additionally, 6,448 students were placed on the waiting list, and ultimately, 107 were admitted. The acceptance rate from the waiting list was a mere 1.6%. Beyond high school grades, Emory places significant emphasis on extracurricular activities, personal qualities/character, and special talents. Of course, essays and letters of recommendation are also of utmost importance. The SAT median score was 1500, with the 75th percentile at 1530 and the 25th percentile at 1450. Among admitted students, 81% ranked in the top 10% of their high school class.

 

Regarding transfer applications, in 2022, there were 2,020 applications, with 386 students admitted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 18.96%. Emory, like many private universities, does not have a strong inclination towards admitting transfer students.

 

 

Texas

Rice University

Rice University was founded by the Texas cotton magnate William Marsh Rice in 1912. It is located in the heart of downtown Houston. As of 2022, the university has a total of 4,494 undergraduate students, 4,198 master's and doctoral students, totaling 8,672.

 

In terms of admission data, for the fall 2022 intake, there were 31,443 applicants, of which 2,730 were admitted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 8.7%. There were 4,244 students placed on the waitlist, but none were ultimately admitted. So, if you find yourself on Rice's waitlist, it's better not to wait too long. Regarding application materials, course difficulty, GPA, essays, recommendation letters, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities are all considered very important. Among the admitted students, 53% submitted SAT scores, while 23% submitted ACT scores. The median SAT score was 1530, and the median ACT score was 35.

 

As for transfer applications, for the fall 2022 intake, there were a total of 1,319 applicants, of which 66 were admitted. This resulted in a transfer acceptance rate of 5%. Rice is not known for being particularly transfer-friendly.

 

From its founding, Rice has been committed to establishing an affordable university for most families. Therefore, Rice adheres to a 100% need-based financial aid policy, and the scholarships offered to international students are quite generous, with an average value of $64,654. However, only 23% of international students receive scholarships.

 

Rice University excels in fields such as engineering, architecture, music, computer science, physical therapy (ranked No.1 in the U.S.), biology, and economics.

 

University of Texas at Austin

Regardless of who ranks as the best public university in the United States, UT Austin is sure to be on the list. Located in the capital city of Texas, Austin, it has consistently been ranked among the top few most livable cities in America by various magazines. As of 2022, the university has a total of 41,309 undergraduate students, 11,075 graduate and doctoral students, making a total of 52,384 students.

 

The most recent data for undergraduate admissions in 2022 indicates that a total of 60,092 students applied for freshman admission, of which 18,770 were ultimately admitted. UT Austin does not have a waitlist. Regarding transfer applications, a total of 6,961 students applied for transfer admission. Of these, 2,358 were admitted. However, it's worth noting that there is a significant preference for in-state transfer students. UT Austin accepts transfer applications for three terms: fall, spring, and summer.

 

Overall, the application difficulty for Austin is not very high. The university's strengths lie in fields such as business (especially accounting), communication, engineering, and computer science.

 

Pennsylvania

Finally, let’s move onto my home state, Pennsylvania. In the first episode, I mentioned Pennsylvania, which I believe is the state with the most diverse and abundant university resources in the United States. Here, you have the Ivy League University of Pennsylvania, the computer science powerhouse Carnegie Mellon, as well as mid-tier options like Villanova and Lehigh. There are also down-to-earth choices like Penn State and the University of Pittsburgh, along with highly-ranked liberal arts colleges such as Swarthmore. Plus, there are colleges like Haverford, Bryn Mawr, Franklin & Marshall, and Bucknell that offer less fiercely competitive environments. Pennsylvania also values professional education, with institutions like Drexel and Temple.

 

University of Pennsylvania

Let's begin with the flagship university of Pennsylvania, the Ivy League institution, the University of Pennsylvania, often referred to as Penn. The recent Nobel Prize in Physiology Medicine announced this month has once again put Penn in the headlines. When people think of Penn, they often associate it with the Wharton School, engineering, medicine, and nursing.

 

Since Penn is located in Philadelphia where I currently reside, I'm quite familiar with it. Among the Ivy League schools, Penn strikes the best balance between campus atmosphere and urban surroundings. While Columbia is in bustling Manhattan, its campus, to be honest, isn't particularly striking or comfortable. On the other hand, other Ivy League campuses can feel quite isolated. In my opinion, Penn does the best job of blending the two. Penn is also one of the few Ivy League schools with a significant "school spirit," and a place where students can achieve a balanced life between academics and other pursuits. Additionally, Penn students have a particularly strong affinity for their school, and the alumni network is very supportive.

 

Let's take a look at the admission data for 2022. The university had a total of 9,717 undergraduate students and 12,226 graduate students. In the application materials, course difficulty, GPA, standardized test scores, essays, recommendation letters, and personal qualities were considered very important. Class rank, interviews, extracurricular activities, and special talents were deemed important. Other factors were considered as well.


Although Penn is test-optional, standardized test scores are still reviewed and hold significant weight. Among admitted students, 48% submitted SAT scores, while 23% submitted ACT scores, totaling 71%. 25% of students had SAT scores above 1570, with the lowest SAT score being 1500. In terms of GPA, 90% of students had a GPA of 3.75 or higher. Early decision applications to Penn provide a clear advantage; over half of the incoming class is admitted through ED. Therefore, if Penn is your dream school, applying early is highly recommended. Out of 3,351 students on the waitlist, 17 were ultimately admitted.

 

Regarding transfer applications, there were a total of 3,513 applicants last year, of which 185 were admitted, resulting in a transfer acceptance rate of 5%. Submission of high school and undergraduate transcripts, application essays, and being in good standing at the current institution are all very important for transfer applicants. Penn's strengths lie in business, engineering, nursing, biology, and medicine.

 

Carnegie Mellon University

Let's move to the western city of Pennsylvania, the steel city Pittsburgh. Here, we have Carnegie Mellon University, and the University of Pittsburgh. We'll now introduce Carnegie Mellon.

Carnegie Mellon University was formed by the merger of two institutions. In 1900, the steel magnate Andrew Carnegie established a technical school in Pittsburgh, primarily to provide education for the city's blue-collar workers. In 1967, the Carnegie Institute of Technology and Mellon Institute merged to create the Carnegie Mellon University that we know today. Carnegie Mellon's campus is very quiet and beautiful, forming a university community along with the University of Pittsburgh in the picturesque and serene suburbs of Pittsburgh.

 

As of 2022, the university has a total of 7,509 undergraduate students, 9,270 graduate and doctoral students, making a total of 16,779, which isn't considered a particularly large institution. In terms of application data, in 2022, there were 34,261 applicants, of which 3,873 were admitted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 11%. 8,936 people were placed on the waitlist, and ultimately, 43 were admitted.

 

The most important factors for applying to Carnegie Mellon are high school grades, essays, recommendation letters, extracurricular activities, personal qualities, and volunteer experience. In fact, Carnegie Mellon considers even more factors than Penn, but the difference is that special talents and interviews, which are important at Penn, are not as critical at Carnegie Mellon. On the other hand, Carnegie Mellon places more importance on volunteer experience, which Penn doesn't view as heavily.

 

Although standardized tests are optional, over 70% of admitted students submitted either SAT or ACT scores. So, as we've always said, "optional is never optional." Unless it's a test-blind school like the University of California, if you're aiming for the top, it's still important to have standardized test scores. Among admitted students, 89.1% had GPAs of 3.75 or higher.

 

Regarding transfer applications, in 2022, there were 1,310 applicants, of which 93 were admitted, resulting in a transfer acceptance rate of 7%, which is lower than that of freshman applicants. So, not all schools are transfer friendly.

 

When it comes to Carnegie Mellon's strengths, the first and foremost is computer science. Its engineering programs are also very strong. Another outstanding program at Carnegie Mellon, with an even lower acceptance rate than computer science, is its School of Drama. Theater, music, art, and design are all strong programs at the university.

 

In terms of scholarships, Carnegie Mellon is not very generous. 97% of U.S. students can receive an average of $38,817 in need-based financial aid, while only 8% of students receive merit-based aid. Carnegie Mellon has a no-aid policy for international students, so all international students do not receive any financial aid.

 

Swarthmore

Swarthmore College, located in the town of Swarthmore in the suburbs of Philadelphia, is tied with Pomona and Wellesley for fourth place in the US News Liberal Arts College Rankings. Swarthmore students often describe themselves as "Nerdy". It ranks among the top five universities in terms of the percentage of graduates who apply for Ph.D. programs, with 22%.

 

As of 2023, the college has a total of 1,625 students. The freshman return rate is 96%, which holds valuable insights for transfer applicants. In terms of application data, in 2023, there were 14,707 applicants, of which 2,019 were admitted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 6.9%.

 

One major difference between Swarthmore and other schools in terms of evaluating application materials is that the admissions officers at Swarthmore rate personal qualities as "Very Important," while other schools categorize it as "considered." This indicates Swarthmore's emphasis on individual qualities and diversity. This reminds us to take this into full consideration when writing application essays. Other factors such as transcripts, class rank, essays, and recommendation letters are also considered the most important.

 

The average SAT score is 1500, and the average ACT score is 33. 87% of students scored above 700 in SAT Evidenced-Based Reading and Writing, and 91% scored above 700 in Math. 89% of students had a high school GPA within the top 10%. Overlapping schools in applications include Amherst, Bowdoin, Carleton, Pomona, Williams, Wesleyan, Yale, Brown.

 

Regarding transfer applications, in 2022, there were 454 transfer applicants, of which 11 were admitted, resulting in a transfer acceptance rate of a mere 2.4%.

 

Swarthmore's strengths lie in Economics, Computer Science, Engineering, Biology, Mathematics, Political Science, and Visual Arts. All students are required to take a minimum of two courses in the humanities, natural sciences and engineering, and social sciences, as well as meet foreign language and physical education requirements, and complete three writing-intensive courses in order to graduate.

 

Villanova

Villanova University, located in the suburbs of Philadelphia, is a Catholic private university that's about a 30-minute drive away. While Villanova is relatively easier to get into among the top 50 schools, it offers excellent programs. Its strengths lie in Finance, Engineering, Nursing, Economics, and Biology. Additionally, Villanova is a private university with a small student body, meaning professors can provide more attention to students, which is something that public universities can't compare to. Finally, Villanova's location is excellent, situated in the affluent Main Line region of Philadelphia with a beautiful environment and a very safe community. It's also only a half-hour to 40-minute drive from Philadelphia.

 

As of 2023, the university has a total of 6,989 undergraduate students and 3,394 graduate and doctoral students, making a total of 10,383 students. In 2022, there were 23,835 applicants, of which 5,576 were admitted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 23.4%. 3,355 people were placed on the waitlist, and ultimately, 36 were admitted. The average SAT score is 1440, and the ACT average is 33. 35% of admitted students had a GPA of 4.0, and 40% had a GPA between 3.75 and 3.99.

 

Regarding transfer applications, in the fall semester of 2022, there were 588 transfer applicants, of which 140 were admitted, resulting in a transfer acceptance rate of 23.8%, slightly higher than that of freshman applicants.

 

Final Note: A few predictions from me on this year's college application trends. 1) Due to recent controversies, there might be a decrease in students applying to Harvard and Penn, particularly because of recent comments regarding Israel. 2) UVA admitted too many students last year, so they might reduce the number of acceptances this year. 3) There might be an increase in students applying to UNC this year, partly due to an improvement in its rankings, and also because of the outcome of the AA lawsuit, leading more students to believe they have a chance.

Financial Aid Friendly Colleges

By Katia Hua • April 19, 2025
I will first introduce schools that are generally generous with financial aid, followed by those that are more accessible—schools that are relatively easier to get into and also offer good financial support. First is Yale University. The average grant or scholarship amount is $63,520, and as we discussed previously, grants and scholarships do not need to be repaid. About 52% of students receive them. The average out-of-pocket cost is $18,650. Yale promises to meet 100% of students' demonstrated financial need, and does so without requiring student loans. This includes both need-based and non-need-based aid. Yale waives all costs for families with annual incomes below $75,000. For families earning between $75,000 and $200,000, the required contribution ranges from 1% to 20% of their income. Second is Dartmouth College. The average grant or scholarship amount is $62,290, with 45% of students receiving aid. The average out-of-pocket cost is $19,210. Dartmouth waives all tuition for families earning less than $125,000 and provides loan-free financial aid packages, meaning all aid is in the form of grants or scholarships that don’t require repayment. Third is Harvard University. The average grant or scholarship amount is $61,800, with 56% of students receiving aid. The average out-of-pocket cost is $19,490. Harvard covers all costs for families earning less than $85,000. Families with incomes between $85,000 and $150,000 typically contribute no more than 10% of their annual income. Fourth is Northwestern University. The average grant or scholarship amount is $61,720, with about half of students receiving aid. The average out-of-pocket cost is $22,100. At Northwestern, around 60% of undergraduates receive financial aid. Among families earning less than $120,000 annually, 97% receive assistance. Next is Wellesley College. The average grant or scholarship amount is $61,330, with 59% of students receiving aid. The average out-of-pocket cost is $21,360. Wellesley eliminates student loans for families earning under $100,000 and caps the total family contribution at $28,000. For other students with financial need, aid packages may include loans, but the loan amount is limited to $3,000 in the first year, with a four-year total cap of $15,200. Sixth is Columbia University. The average grant or scholarship amount is $61,060, with 52% of students receiving aid. The average out-of-pocket cost is $22,060. Columbia waives all costs for students from families earning less than $66,000. Seventh is Stanford University. The average grant or scholarship amount is $60,620, with 53% of students receiving aid. The average out-of-pocket cost is $18,280. Stanford uses a need-based assessment model for financial aid, similar to need-aware, focusing resources on those who need it most. For the class of 2026, students receiving aid were awarded over $68,000 in scholarships on average. Families earning under $225,000—more than 95% of them—receive aid. Families earning less than $75,000 receive over $86,000 in scholarships and grants on average. Though these schools are generous, they are also highly competitive in admissions. Are there generous schools that are less difficult to get into? The answer is Yes. Washington University in St. Louis is a private university ranked 21st nationally, located in St. Louis, Missouri. While admission is still competitive, it's somewhat more accessible than the schools above. The average grant or scholarship is $58,190, with 43% of students receiving aid. The average out-of-pocket cost is $23,430. Colby College is a liberal arts college in Maine, ranked 25th nationally. The average grant or scholarship is $61,720, with 41% of students receiving aid. Colby waives tuition for students from families earning less than $75,000. For families earning less than $150,000, the annual parent contribution is capped at $15,000. Colby uses a need-aware admission policy, meaning financial need is considered in admissions decisions. Still, 95% of families earning up to $200,000 qualify for aid, and nearly half of all incoming students receive some form of financial assistance. Haverford College is a liberal arts college located in the suburbs of Philadelphia, ranked 24th nationally. The average grant or scholarship is $58,000, with 45% of students receiving aid. The average out-of-pocket cost is $23,480. Berea College, ranked 40th nationally, is unique in several ways. Since 1892, it has not charged students any tuition. Currently, the total fee is only $726, covering both tuition and fees. Compared to the national average tuition of $51,147, Berea's cost is almost negligible. Colgate University , which may sound like a made-up school due to its similarity to the toothpaste brand, is actually a top-ranked liberal arts college, ranked 22nd nationally. The university is indeed connected to the Colgate family—William Colgate, the founder of the Colgate company, helped establish the school. Located in Hamilton, New York, Colgate offers an average grant or scholarship of $54,650 to 41% of students. The average out-of-pocket cost is $27,070. A few final suggestions: Although public universities often have lower tuition, they tend to offer fewer scholarships. Don’t be intimidated by their high sticker prices. All the schools we’ve covered today are private institutions. Private colleges often provide very generous aid, and most students receive some financial support. A high-ranking school is not necessarily more generous. Choose between need-blind and need-aware schools based on your actual financial situation.

Types of Scholarships and Financial Aid and How to Apply

By Katia Hua • March 23, 2025
Need-Based vs. Non-Need-Based Need-based scholarships require students to provide evidence of financial need and are awarded based on the student's financial situation. This evidence includes filling out the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and providing tax returns, W-2 forms, etc., to demonstrate that the family's income is insufficient to cover the full costs. The need-based funding is significantly greater than non-need-based funding, because most schools prioritize need-based aid while supplementing with merit-based scholarships to ensure that students do not miss out on education due to their family’s financial situation. Different schools have different income thresholds. For example: Yale University considers families with an annual income below $75,000 eligible for need-based aid. University of Virginia (UVA) sets this threshold at $150,000 annual income. Many schools offer 100% of demonstrated need-based aid but provide very few non-need-based scholarships. Therefore, if your family income exceeds a certain threshold, you may not qualify for need-based aid, but you also might not receive much merit-based aid either. In this case, you can consider private scholarships. These are non-repayable scholarships funded by third-party organizations, such as private foundations or NGOs. However, they often have strict eligibility criteria. You can also consider federal or bank student loans. These must be repaid and often come with interest. Need-Aware vs. Need-Blind Colleges Colleges can be categorized as need-blind or need-aware when considering applicants’ financial situations during the admissions process. 1. Need-Blind Colleges Need-blind schools do not consider a student’s financial situation when making admissions decisions. This means that an applicant’s ability to pay tuition will not negatively impact their chances of being accepted. At first glance, this seems like a great option. But there are drawbacks. Many need-blind schools cannot meet 100% of students’ demonstrated financial needs. For example, a student might require $50,000 in aid but, due to limited funds and a large number of aid recipients, they might only receive $5,000. 2. Need-Aware Colleges Need-aware schools do take a student’s ability to pay into account during the admissions process. While this may seem like a disadvantage, many need-aware colleges commit to fully meeting the demonstrated need of admitted students. In short: Need-blind schools aim to be fair to all applicants but may not fully meet the financial needs of admitted students. Need-aware schools carefully assess financial need but ensure that admitted students receive adequate financial aid. 3. Need Policies for U.S. vs. International Students Some colleges apply different financial aid policies based on citizenship. For example, many schools are 100% need-blind and fully meet need-based aid for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders. However, for international students, these same schools may be need-aware, meaning financial need could influence admission decisions. Now that we’ve covered financial aid categories, let's dive into the application process, starting with the FAFSA FAFSA 1. What is FAFSA? FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid, which is a financial aid program funded by the U.S. federal government. The name itself indicates that it provides government-backed financial assistance to eligible students. 2. Who Can Apply for FAFSA? The following students are eligible to apply: U.S. citizens Green Card holders (permanent residents) Certain eligible non-citizens, including specific categories of I-94 card holders International students generally do not qualify, except in limited cases (such as refugees or asylees). 3. What Does FAFSA Cover? FAFSA funding consists of four main components: Federal Grants. This portion is need-based and does not require repayment, such as Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) Scholarships: Some FAFSA aid comes in the form of scholarships, which may have specific eligibility requirements, such as academic performance, major, or extracurricular achievements. Work-Study Programs: this allows students to earn money by working part-time at approved institutions, either on-campus or off-campus, to help cover educational expenses. Low-Interest Student Loans: these loans are provided by the federal government with lower interest rates compared to private loans. FAFSA Application Process Register an account and fill out the form ( studentaid.gov ). Each school has a different deadline, and my suggestion is to submit it as early as possible. This way, you can receive the results early and compare the financial aid packages once college admission results are released to make a comprehensive decision. CSS Profile The full name is College Scholarship Service, a financial aid program provided by College Board, which is a non-federal aid program. The CSS Profile is much smaller in scale compared to FAFSA, with about 400 colleges participating. Since CSS Profile uses non-federal funds, international students can also apply, but specific eligibility depends on each school (some schools allow international students to apply, while others do not). Families with high financial aid needs should consider choosing schools that accept both FAFSA and CSS Profile. The application opens on October 1st each year. The deadline is no later than the college application deadline (varies by school), Required documents include parents’ tax returns, tax documents from two years prior (e.g., students applying for Fall 2026 need to submit 2024 tax returns). Understanding the Award Letter After submitting the FAFSA and CSS Profile, the next step is waiting for the results. The school will send an award letter, which details the financial aid package you have received, including the types of aid and the amount of money awarded. Once you receive the award letter, you should carefully review the financial aid package and compare offers from different schools. Key Considerations When Reviewing the Award Letter Understand Your Actual Costs The school provides an estimate, but you should calculate your realistic expenses based on personal circumstances, including food, housing, transportation, etc. How to choose an offer Follow this order: Prioritize funds that don't need to be repaid (scholarships, grants). Next, consider earnings (job). Finally, consider borrowed funds (loans). What if you're not satisfied with the result? You can choose to appeal. The letter you receive will tell you how to accept the offer. Typically, you can log into your student account and select to accept the offer. When the semester starts, your aid will be disbursed. First, the school will use the funds to pay for tuition, housing, and other required fees. If there’s any leftover, it will be credited to your student account. Lastly, FAFSA needs to be renewed every year, so it’s important to ensure you meet the conditions, including filing your taxes properly and keep your tax records, and maintaining your grades to meet the school’s requirements and stay in good standing.

Introducing college majors: Engineering

By Katia Hua • January 21, 2025
Computer Engineering What is Computer Engineering? Computer engineering focuses on the hardware aspect of computing, such as making computers smaller, faster, and more efficient. Difference Between Computer Engineering (CE) and Computer Science (CS) Computer Science (CS) focuses on software, including courses such as Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning, Database Management, Operating Systems, Cybersecurity. Computer Engineering (CE) focuses on hardware, with courses like Circuit Design, Microprocessors, Signal Processing, Networking Hardware Top Schools for Computer Engineering Renowned universities for Computer Engineering include MIT, Stanford, UC Berkeley. Other strong programs: Purdue University, University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) Application Requirements To apply for Computer Engineering, students need strong high school academic performance, excellent grades in Math and Physics. Relevant Extracurricular Activities like robotics competitions, Math and physics contests, coding projects and hackathons. Participation in school clubs related to programming or engineering, pre-college summer courses, or science fairs Career Prospects Electronics Companies such as Apple, Intel, NVIDIA. Automotive & Aerospace such as Tesla, General Motors, Boeing. Medical Device Companies such as Siemens, specializing in imaging equipment and medical robots. Financial Services. Telecommunications. Salary Expectations: Entry-level salary range is $70,000–$90,000 per year. Mid-level salary is approximately $140,000 per year Computer Science What is Computer Science (CS)? CS primarily focuses on software development and computational theories. It offers a wide range of specialized fields that address emerging technologies and real-world applications. Popular CS specializations include Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning, Data Mining, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity, Human-Computer Interaction, Visual Design, Distributed Systems, Robotics, Natural Language Processing (NLP), Quantum Computing, Cloud Computing, Game Design, and Internet of Things (IoT). Fast-growing fields within CS include Quantum Computing, Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Career Prospects To increase employability, students should focus on mastering programming (e.g., Python, Java, C++) and developing a strong understanding of cybersecurity principles. The average starting salary for CS graduates is approximately $90,000 per year. Job opportunities are concentrated in tech hubs such as the San Francisco Bay Area, Texas (Austin, Dallas), New York, and Boston, with emerging tech cities like Denver, Raleigh, and Atlanta also offering many opportunities. Electrical Engineering (EE) Electrical Engineering (EE) covers areas such as circuits, electromagnetics, control systems, signal processing, power systems (strong and weak electricity), communication, and renewable energy systems. Application Requirements For students interested in applying to this major, strong high school performance in mathematics and physics is essential. Recommended extracurricular activities include STEM-related competitions like robotics, programming contests, or science fairs. Additionally, personal projects or portfolios—submitted through platforms like GitHub—can demonstrate technical skills. Internships or volunteer experiences related to the field also significantly enhance competitiveness in applications. Top Schools for Electrical Engineering In addition to well-known universities, schools with strong EE programs include USC, Wisconsin-Madison, Virginia Tech, Texas A&M, and the University of Florida. Career Prospects Employment prospects for Electrical Engineering (EE) graduates span multiple industries, including technology companies that develop microprocessors and memory systems, communication companies like AT&T, Verizon, and Cisco, as well as the electric vehicle and aerospace sectors. The energy industry, with companies such as the State Grid, GE, and Siemens, also employs many EE professionals. Rapidly growing fields include smart grids for improved energy efficiency, the Internet of Things (IoT), hardware-AI integration, electric vehicles and battery technology, as well as robotics and automation. To quickly secure a desirable job in these fields, I recommend acquiring skills such as programming—not limited to computer science but also essential in engineering. Knowledge of hardware description languages, control theory, signal processing, power system analysis, project management, and effective communication is equally important. Starting salaries in the industry range from $70,000 to $85,000, with mid-level positions averaging $120,000. Operations Research (OR) Operations Research (OR) applies analytical tools, mathematical models, and optimization techniques to assist organizations in decision-making and improving efficiency. While it is categorized as an engineering discipline, it primarily uses engineering methods to address business challenges. As a result, many OR graduates find roles in accounting, consulting, or finance. OR offers several subfields; for example, Columbia University allows students to specialize in business analytics, technological entrepreneurship, financial engineering, logistics and supply chain, machine learning, optimization, or stochastic models. Top Schools for Operations Research Renowned universities for OR include Columbia (offering multiple subfields), Cornell (focused on data-driven decision analysis), Princeton (under OR and Financial Engineering), and the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor (under Industrial and Operations Engineering). Northwestern University offers OR as a subfield within industrial engineering, blending it with analytics. Other strong programs include USC and UIUC. Career Prospects OR graduates are well-suited for roles such as data analysts in tech companies, offering a stronger foundation in quantitative analysis than many business analytics graduates. Other opportunities include data analysis, supply chain analysis to optimize processes, financial analysis (as financial analysts or quantitative analysts in the finance sector), and management consulting, where OR backgrounds help streamline processes and inform strategic decisions. Emerging industries include AI-driven optimization, automated transportation, and logistics and supply chain advancements. To secure ideal positions, students should strengthen their foundation in mathematics and statistics, build proficiency in optimization models and programming, and enhance communication skills, especially in data visualization. Many OR concepts are abstract, so the ability to clearly and visually present complex ideas is crucial. Average starting salaries range from $60,000 to $80,000, but mid-level incomes vary significantly by industry. Key employment hubs include the Bay Area (technology) and the East Coast (finance and consulting). Mechanical Engineering The main areas of study in this field include materials mechanics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, machine design, industrial processes, control systems, robotics, aerospace engineering, nanotechnology, acoustics, and vibration engineering. Mechanical engineering covers a wide range, from small nano systems to large, complex industrial equipment. It spans the study of sound, fluid flow, and air systems. Top Schools for Mechanical Engineering There are many schools that offer this program, as nearly all research-oriented universities have an engineering school. As long as there is an engineering school, there will be a mechanical engineering program. In addition to the well-known top schools, institutions like UT Austin, UCSD, Virginia Tech, PSU, TAMU, and UF also offer excellent mechanical engineering programs. Job Prospects Career Prospects Because mechanical engineering covers such a broad range of fields, it is relatively easy to find a job. Related industries include automotive, aerospace, industrial manufacturing and design, energy and utilities, robotics and automation, medical devices, and consulting. High-growth areas include additive manufacturing (3D printing), robotics manufacturing, and renewable energy. Familiarity with technologies such as CAD and design software, programming, project management, and control systems and automation makes it easier to find a job. The starting salary is around $80,000. Key job hubs include the Bay Area, Texas, Boston, Detroit, Southern California, and Seattle. 

Introducing College Majors: Natural Sciences

By Katia Hua • January 6, 2025
Mathematics-Related Majors: Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics Mathematics is called the foundation of all disciplines, and there is some truth to this statement. Undergraduate mathematics programs typically offer two degrees options: a Bachelor of Science (BS) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA). The key difference between them is that the BS degree places more emphasis on technical and scientific aspects of mathematics. BS students take more advanced courses in both theoretical and applied mathematics, along with classes related to physics, computer science, and engineering. On the other hand, many liberal arts colleges award a BA degree in mathematics. While BA students also take a substantial number of math courses, they have more flexibility to take classes in the humanities and social sciences. Generally, a BS degree leans more toward quantitative studies. Types of Mathematics Majors Common math-related majors include Mathematics, Statistics, and Applied Mathematics. Here’s a breakdown of the differences: Mathematics focuses on theory and building new mathematical frameworks. It is less concerned with real-world applications. Applied Mathematics combines math with other fields like engineering and physics to solve real-world problems, such as optimizing supply chains, modeling disease transmission, or designing big data algorithms. Statistics is considered a branch of applied math that focuses on collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. In simple terms, statistics uses data to make decisions. The key difference between mathematics and statistics lies in their relationship to reality: Mathematics does not necessarily require data or real-world context. Statistics is entirely based on real-world data. If the data source is flawed, the statistical model will fail. Moreover, statistics has strong practical applications in various fields. Application Information · There are no additional application requirements for math majors. However, high school math courses are critical. In addition to advanced math, it’s better also to take courses in statistics and physics. · The number of applicants for math majors is generally lower compared to fields like engineering and business. If a student excels in math in high school and does not dislike the subject, applying as a math major could be a good option to getting into a top university. In an ideal world, students can align both their preferred major and college. However, in reality—especially when applying to top schools—students may need to make trade-offs. For example, they might need to prioritize between getting into a top school or pursuing a specific but competitive major like computer science. Top schools for Applied Mathematics : MIT, NYU – NYU was the top-ranked applied math program for a long time. Other strong programs include UCLA, Brown, UT Austin, University of Minnesota (Twin Cities), and UNC Chapel Hill. Top schools for Statistics : Yale, Duke, Northwestern. Other highly ranked schools include UVA, Emory, and UNC Chapel Hill. Career Prospects Many students with an undergraduate degree in math pursue master’s or Ph.D. programs in engineering or business schools. A strong math background is an advantage for careers in actuarial science, accounting, or finance. The median salary for math and statistics jobs is around $104,000. However, pure math or statistics jobs can be harder to find. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, there were only about 30,000 job openings in math and statistics in 2023. In contrast, applied math roles like actuarial science, and big data are much more in demand. For example: Big data jobs : In 2023, there were 200,000 job openings in the U.S., with a growth rate of 36% . Actuarial science : This was covered in our episode on business-related majors. Biology-Related Majors: Biology & Biochemistry Biology covers a broad range of topics, including plants, animals, microorganisms, ecology, evolution, and genetics . Biochemistry is a specialized branch of biology that focuses on the chemical processes within living organisms . It studies proteins, acids, enzymes, DNA, RNA , and other molecules at the molecular level. Biology covers a broad range of subjects, studying all living organisms, including plants, animals, microorganisms, ecology, evolution, and genetics . In contrast, biochemical research operates at the molecular level , concentrating on proteins, acids, enzymes, DNA, RNA , and other molecular structures. Application Information (Biology/Biochemistry) Almost all universities offer biology programs. Top schools for biology include: Stanford , Harvard , MIT , UCLA , UC Berkeley , University of Michigan , UNC Chapel Hill , and UCSF . Career Prospects Biochemistry graduates often work in laboratories , pharmaceutical companies , or medical institutions . Biology graduates may pursue careers in research, but many need to earn a Ph.D. or even postdoctoral experience. Careers in biomedical engineering or bioinformatics tend to have better job prospects compared to traditional biology roles. The median salary for biochemistry-related careers in 2023 was around $107,000 . Chemistry-Related Majors: Chemistry & Materials Science Chemistry involves the study of matter, its properties, and the changes it undergoes. It's a vast field, and organic chemistry is often considered one of the toughest subjects for students. Materials Science is a cross-disciplinary field that combines chemistry, physics, and engineering to study materials and their applications. Applications of materials science include electronics, aerospace, and biotechnology . Examples of materials science innovations include batteries , nanomaterials , and biomaterials such as artificial organs, synthetic skin, and surgical adhesives . Application Information Top schools for chemistry and materials science include: MIT , Stanford , UC Berkeley , UIUC , Georgia Tech , UT Austin , Penn State (PSU) , and University of Florida (UF) . Career Prospects (Chemistry/Materials Science) Materials science graduates often work in industries such as: Electronics and telecommunications Energy Healthcare Aerospace Environmental sustainability Most materials science jobs require only a bachelor's degree , making it a field with a relatively low entry barrier . Environmental Science Due to growing attention to climate change and pollution and waste management, environmental science has become increasingly popular. Key areas within environmental science include: Ecology Climate studies Pollution and waste management Conservation Earth sciences Environmental policy and law Application Information Top schools for environmental science include: University of Florida (UF) UC Berkeley (UCB) University of Michigan (U Mich) UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) UC Davis (UCD) Career Prospects (Environmental Science) Environmental science graduates can work in: Government agencies (such as the EPA ) NGOs Research institutions Consulting firms (as environmental consultants) Private companies (especially in renewable energy and sustainability sectors).

Introducing college majors: Medical Related

By Katia Hua • December 2, 2024
Public Health As the name suggests, Public Health focuses on issues related to community and population health. Core topics include epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy and management, nutrition, environmental and climate health, child psychology and family health, and public health big data. Application Information ● Undergraduate: The application process for undergraduate programs in Public Health is similar to other majors, with no additional specific requirements. ● Master’s Degree (MPH): For graduate studies, applications are typically submitted through the SOPHAS (Schools of Public Health Application Service) system. Some schools, such as UNC, require both SOPHAS and a separate application through their university’s system. Schools Offering Public Health Programs ● Undergraduate Programs: Public Health is not widely offered as an undergraduate major. Recommended schools include: ○ UNC-Chapel Hill ○ University of Michigan ○ Texas A&M ○ UC San Diego ○ UT Austin ○ University of Florida ● Top MPH Programs: ○ Harvard University ○ Johns Hopkins University ○ UNC-Chapel Hill ○ Columbia University ○ UC Berkeley Job Prospects One significant advantage of public health programs is their emphasis on practical experience. For example, UNC requires students to complete a minimum of 200 hours in a practicum, working with government agencies, NGOs, or other partnered organizations (paid or unpaid). Graduates typically work in government, NGOs, or nonprofit organizations. Salaries vary depending on the sector but generally range from $60,000 to $120,000 annually. While not exceptionally high-paying, the field offers fulfilling career paths and opportunities to make a meaningful impact on public well-being. Radiation Therapy Radiation Therapy programs are typically housed within medical schools. Unlike becoming a physician (which requires an MD and years of training), this field has lower barriers to entry, shorter study durations, and less demanding exams. For example, the clinical diagnostic radiation therapy program at the University of Pennsylvania takes three years of study and includes a one-year fellowship. Schools Offering Undergraduate Radiation Therapy Programs Because this is a technical field, there aren’t many schools offering undergraduate degrees in Radiation Therapy. Notable programs include: ● University of Michigan (Flint) ● UNC-Chapel Hill ● University of Missouri-Columbia ● Rutgers University Graduates must obtain certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Job Prospects Radiation Therapy is an attractive field due to its shorter education timeline, lower application thresholds, and significant career growth opportunities. Programs often provide internship experiences during the course of study. For instance, at the University of Pennsylvania, students complete rotations at hospitals like Penn Medicine and the world-renowned Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). It’s not difficult to find a job, with median Salary of $61,370 annually. With its combination of lower entry barriers, solid earning potential, and job demand, Radiation Therapy is an excellent choice for those interested in healthcare without the lengthy commitment of pursuing an MD. Nursing Nursing is a medical-related field with a significant employment gap in the U.S., offering high demand and stable career opportunities. While the job can be physically and emotionally demanding, it is not overwhelmingly so compared to physicians. Additionally, if you are fluent in a second language can be a valuable advantage in the workforce. Schools offering nursing Almost every university in the U.S. offers a nursing program, making it widely accessible. Graduates must obtain relevant certifications, such as Registered Nurse (RN) or Nurse Practitioner (NP) licenses, depending on their specialization. Job Prospects ● Registered Nurse (RN): Median salary is $89,010 annually. ● Nurse Practitioner (NP): Median salary is $124,680 annually. Pre-Med Pre-med is not a major but a track that prepares students to apply to medical school. You can major in anything—biology, engineering, or even non-science disciplines—as long as you fulfill the medical school prerequisites. For example, Johns Hopkins University’s pre-health program explicitly states: "Johns Hopkins University does not have one standard set of classes that will help you fulfill course requirements for medical/health professions school. We recommend students consider the following general guidelines for completing pre-medical/pre-health course requirements." General Pre-Med Course Requirements To meet medical school requirements, students are typically advised to complete the following courses: ● Chemistry: 2 courses in general (inorganic) chemistry with associated labs. ● Organic Chemistry: 2 courses with associated labs. ● Biology: 2 courses with associated labs. ● Biochemistry: 1 course. ● Physics: 2 courses in general physics with associated labs. ● Mathematics and Statistics: 1 course in each. ● English/Writing: 2 courses emphasizing writing or English. ● Social and Behavioral Sciences: 2 courses, such as Introduction to Psychology and Introduction to Sociology. In summary, while technically you only need to take the required courses during your undergraduate years to apply for medical school, the pre-med track o ffers much more than just coursework. What Majors Do Pre-Med Students Choose? Pre-med students can choose any major as long as they fulfill medical school prerequisites. However, the following majors are particularly popular: Biology: Over half of pre-med students major in biology or its subfields since the medical school prerequisites overlap significantly with biology courses. Chemistry and Physics: These are the second most common choices due to their alignment with med school requirements. Psychology, Economics, and Other Social Sciences: About 10% of medical school admits major in social sciences. These students often need to take additional coursework to meet pre-med requirements. Mathematics and Statistics: Although these majors have minimal overlap with med school prerequisites, their students tend to achieve the highest average MCAT scores and GPAs. What is the Value of Pre-Med? Why Is It Popular? Think of pre-med as a one-stop support system for students planning to apply to medical school. Schools with strong pre-med programs provide resources to help students prepare and plan for med school applications effectively. For instance, Johns Hopkins University's pre-health program offers comprehensive support, including guidance on: ● Summer activities ● Study abroad opportunities ● Hospital internships ● Research projects ● Volunteer and community service ● Course selection ● Preparing for standardized tests like the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) or DAT (Dental Admission Test). Structure of Pre-Med Tracks The pre-med track typically spans four years, aligning with the undergraduate timeline. However, due to the extensive time required for medical school training, many students opt for BS/MD programs, which combine a bachelor's degree and a medical degree into a single accelerated pathway. These programs allow students to complete the pre-med phase in three years. BS/MD Programs BS/MD programs allow students to apply for both their bachelor's and medical degrees simultaneously and complete both at the same institution. Pros Save time: Traditional medical education takes 8 years (4 years of undergrad + 4 years of medical school). BS/MD programs usually allow students to finish in 7 years. Simplified Admissions: Students are admitted into both programs upfront, many programs remov the need to reapply for medical school, especially the requirement of MCAT. Cons Highly Competitive: Admission rates are incredibly low, usually between 1%-5% , even lower than Ivy League acceptance rates. For top programs like Brown’s PLME, Case Western Reserve’s PPSP, Pittsburgh’s GAP, or Baylor 2Baylor, acceptance rates are even smaller. In conclusion, while pre-med is not a major, it offers a structured pathway and valuable resources for students aiming for medical school. The choice of major and whether to pursue a BS/MD program depends on individual goals, academic strengths, and long-term career plans. Dentistry There are fewer dental schools (approximately 70) compared to medical schools (155). Dental schools offer two degrees: DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine). ● DDS : The traditional dental degree awarded by most dental schools. ● DMD : First introduced by Harvard in 1867 to emphasize the increasing medical applications in dentistry. Despite the different names, there is no practical distinction between DDS and DMD degrees. Application Process Applications are submitted through the ADEA (American Dental Education Association) system. Students must complete the Dental Admission Test (DAT) and meet all prerequisite coursework requirements before applying. ● The average acceptance rate for dental schools is 5%, slightly higher than for medical schools. ● Top programs, like Harvard’s, are highly competitive, admitting only around 35 students per year. Top Dental Schools Highly ranked dental schools include: ● Harvard University ● University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) ● University of Michigan ● University of North Carolina (UNC) ● New York University (NYU) ● University of Pennsylvania (Penn) ● Columbia University ● University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Job prospects Dentists enjoy strong earning potential with starting salaries ranging from $120,000 to $160,000 annually. Specialists like orthodontists and oral surgeons typically earn even more. Dentistry offers a high-reward career path, combining strong salaries, specialized training, and the opportunity to provide impactful patient care. 

Introduction college majors- Interdisciplinary

By Katia Hua • November 2, 2024
Product Design/Integrated Design Programs Product design is a highly popular field today, sitting at the intersection of design and engineering. A prime example is Apple, which excels in this area, dedicating extensive effort to product design, user experience, and interaction design for its devices, such as phones and headsets. Application Information This program requires a portfolio, so applicants must have a foundation in design, drawing, sculpture, or other 2D or 3D design skills. Schools that offer this major include CMU, Georgia Tech, NYU, and Northeastern. Employment Outlook Job prospects in this field are excellent. The starting salary for product design is around $140,000. Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) HCI is an interdisciplinary field combining computer science, design, psychology, linguistics, literature, and communication. The focus of study is primarily on human-computer interaction and user experience (UX). There are numerous real-world applications, such as voice-based interactions like Siri and Alexa, as well as systems like ChatGPT, making HCI a widely applicable major. Application Information Some branches of this field require a portfolio, while other requirements are similar to those for general majors. Schools offering HCI programs include CMU, Georgia Tech, Stanford, University of Washington (Seattle), UCSD, University of Maryland, Cornell, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and Tufts. Employment Outlook Graduates in this field can pursue careers as UX Designers, Front-end Developers, Content Strategists, and Product Managers. The starting salary is typically around $60,000. Computational Biology/Bioinformatics Computational biology or bioinformatics is a branch of biology that integrates significant elements of computer science and statistics. For instance, at Carnegie Mellon, this major falls under the School of Computer Science, while at UPenn, it is part of the biology department. This major requires students to master both statistical methods and computational skills while also meeting the demands of biology, including experimental biology. The most critical aspect is the ability to bridge these two fields. Courses typically include statistics, probability, computer science fundamentals, machine learning, algorithms, data structures, matrices, advanced mathematics, chemistry, biology, biochemistry, cellular biology, and quantitative gene analysis. As you can see, students pursuing this major need strong skills across the sciences, making them versatile problem-solvers. Application Information Schools that offer this undergraduate major include CMU, UPenn, Case Western, JHU, the University of Pittsburgh, Northeastern, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Rutgers, and others. It’s important to note that interdisciplinary programs like this aren’t limited to top-tier schools—many mid-tier universities also offer excellent programs in this field. Employment Outlook Graduates often find careers in biotech companies, pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, medical and biological research, and pharmaceutical development. Starting salaries vary depending on the industry. 

Introducing college majors- Social Sciences

By Katia Hua • October 14, 2024
Economics Introduction Economics studies how humans make the most efficient use of scarce resources to produce and distribute goods and services to meet human needs. The discipline covers various economic activities, principles, and theories, typically divided into "Macroeconomics" and "Microeconomics." For example, economics explores phenomena like supply and demand, inflation, exchange rates, and interest rates, focusing on how these factors affect economies. The field tends to be theoretical, and students usually need a solid background in mathematics. Economics can be divided into several branches, including but not limited to macroeconomics, microeconomics, econometrics, and development economics. Each branch delves into different aspects of economic theory and application. Application Process Admissions for economics programs highly emphasize math performance and advanced economics coursework. For instance, the University of Pennsylvania's Economics Department requires students to take AP Macroeconomics and Microeconomics or their equivalent (Econ 0100 and Econ 0200). For IB students, a score of 6 or higher in Higher Level Economics is required. UC Berkeley expects applicants to have completed courses in macroeconomics, microeconomics, calculus, and statistics. If you're aiming for top-ranked universities, having a strong foundation in high school math, statistics, and economics courses is essential. Economics is also a popular major, often chosen by students who want to apply to business schools but shift to economics due to intense competition in business programs. Most economics programs do not offer a master's degree—only undergraduate and PhD options—highlighting the theoretical nature of the subject. Job Prospects Graduates in economics can pursue careers in finance, as investment analysts or market researchers, or work in consulting firms, particularly in management consulting roles. Additionally, they may find opportunities in NGOs and international organizations like the World Bank or the International Monetary Fund, as well as in government agencies. However, job prospects in economics are closely tied to the prestige of the school; graduates from top universities tend to have better job opportunities, while those from lower-ranked schools may face more challenges. Education Education as a field doesn’t equal to traditional teacher training. It has various subfields, such as Educational Statistics, Educational Policy and Management, Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Educational Psychology, and Educational Technology. These subfields vary in terms of job prospects, with some being easier to find employment in than others, which we will explore further. Application Process Generally, education is considered a relatively easy field to apply for. There are no specific or highly specialized admission requirements beyond those of the university’s general application criteria. Job Prospects For those studying teacher education (teacher training), it’s not difficult to find a job, as there is currently a significant shortage of teachers. But, we all know that salaries for teaching positions aren’t high. On the other hand, certain education subfields offer better job prospects and salaries, such as Educational Statistics and Educational Psychology. For example, the starting salary for educational psychologists is around $66,000. In summary, while teaching positions are in high demand but offer lower pay, certain specialized areas in education provide both solid employment opportunities and competitive salaries. Communication  Communication has several branches. There is journalism (in some schools, journalism is a separate major), media or mass communication, and interdisciplinary fields that intersect with advertising and public relations. Application Requirements Communication requires strong language skills, especially in writing. For instance, Northwestern’s media program has a minimum TOEFL score requirement of 100 for foreign applicants and does not accept super scoring. Employment Outlook Traditional media fields, such as newspapers, magazines, and broadcast television, are more challenging for job seekers. However, advertising and public relations offer better prospects. The entry-level salary in the advertising industry is around $60,000, which is the national average. Salaries on the East Coast tend to be higher. Political Science Subfields of Political science usually include political theory (starting with Greek philosophy and government), American politics, comparative politics, public policy, and international relations. Application Information Political Science requires extensive reading and writing. So, it can be challenging if you don’t like to read and write a lot of materials in short period of time. Admissions will pay close attention to grades in social studies courses, especially those related to American government and history. Employment Outlook Political science provides good job prospects, which might surprise some people. Many political science graduates go on to law school, as the major is a natural pathway, like how biology majors often go to medical school. In terms of employment, many graduates work in government as civil servants, while others find roles in NGOs and think tanks. There’s also a good number of graduates pursue careers in lobbying and campaign management, such as campaign managers.

Introduction to Business Majors

By Katia Hua • September 30, 2024
Finance Finance, simply put, is the study of how individuals, organizations, and companies effectively raise, allocate, and utilize funds over a period of time. It is a discipline focused on capital management. Although economics and business studies also involve finance, a finance major delves more deeply into the field. Specific topics in finance include money, securities, banking, insurance, capital markets, derivatives, investment, and financial management. Finance is relatively math-oriented, requiring knowledge of advanced mathematics and statistics. Admission Requirements Students need a strong foundation in mathematics. For undergraduate applicants, it’s crucial to pay attention to your math grades. For master's applicants, you must have studied calculus, accounting, statistics, and basic economics during your undergraduate studies. Those with a liberal arts background can also apply for a master’s in finance, but it’s preferable to have taken courses in mathematics and business as minors. The undergraduate finance program takes four years. A master’s in finance usually takes one year and is highly practical. Career Paths Graduates can work as financial advisors, securities brokers, fund managers, or in private client services and mergers and acquisitions in investment banks, consulting firms, or commercial bank loan departments. The starting salary for a finance master's graduate from Vanderbilt University is around $86,000, while the starting salary for an undergraduate is relatively lower but still competitive. Financial Mathematics/Financial Engineering Financial Engineering is an interdisciplinary field that combines finance, mathematics, and computer science. It is also known as Mathematical Finance or Quantitative Finance. Financial Engineering involves the development of technical solutions to financial problems using engineering approaches, including financial product design, pricing, trading strategy development, and risk management. Courses are usually co-taught by the business school, mathematics department, and engineering school. Admission Requirements Due to the excellent job prospects, it is one of the most demanding majors in terms of background requirements. Students must have a strong foundation in mathematics and a solid programming background, including skills in C/C++, VBA (programming tools), MATLAB (modeling), and MAPLE. Many students majoring in financial engineering come from mathematics or computer science backgrounds. Humanities students can apply, but they must excel in mathematics and programming. If you don’t like math and coding, this major might not be a good fit for you. Career Paths Financial Engineering differs from Finance as it primarily trains technical professionals in the financial industry known as Quantitative Analysts, or Quants. Quants are primarily employed in investment banks, hedge funds, commercial banks, and financial institutions, where they work on developing and applying derivatives pricing models, programming, and risk management. Since Financial Engineering professionals are considered the gatekeepers (risk controllers) and brains (pricing and product modeling) of the finance industry, their compensation is quite high. For instance, the median starting salary for financial engineering graduates from Carnegie Mellon is approximately $136,000. Business Analytics and Data Science Although Data Science is not traditionally considered a business discipline, the rise of Business Analytics and the popularity of Big Data have somewhat pulled Data Science into the business realm, as it is seen as lucrative and prestigious. Business Analytics (BA) originated from Data Science, but there are three key differences between them: 1. Automation and Skill Requirements: Many Business Analytics tools can automatically perform functions, requiring minimal Data Science expertise from the user. For example, students studying BA are like users who can operate Microsoft Office but don’t need to know how to develop Microsoft Office. Whereas Data Science students are the ones who create Microsoft Office. 2. Problem-Solving Focus: Business Analysts focus on analyzing historical data to solve specific business problems, while Data Scientists generally do not solve specific problems. Data Scientists use advanced statistical methods to explore data, uncover patterns, and use features within the data to guide analysis and predictions. 3. Application Fields: Data Science has a broader range of applications and can be utilized in any field that requires Big Data analysis, such as healthcare, medicine, technology, and beyond. In contrast, Business Analytics is more specifically tailored to addressing business-related issues. Marketing Marketing is one of the most traditional business disciplines, but it continues to evolve with the development of technology and commerce. In English, Marketing and Sales are different concepts representing two branches. · Marketing is the first step of the process, involving market analysis, customer analysis, and the creation and dissemination of advertising and marketing messages. It focuses more on the strategic side, emphasizing the effective output of information to target audiences. · Sales, on the other hand, focuses on direct communication with people, aiming to convert potential leads into actual customers through interpersonal interaction and persuasion. While both are crucial to a business's success, Marketing and Sales work together but have different roles: Marketing sets the stage by creating awareness and interest, and Sales closes the deal by engaging directly with customers. Information Management / Management Information Systems (MIS) Management Information Systems (MIS) is a field that focuses on the study of people, technology, and organizations. In today’s world, anyone involved in business activities will use some form of information system. Examples include eCommerce, online shopping, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) for maintaining customer relations, and online banking. MIS students don’t need to master a lot of programming; being able to use these systems proficiently is usually enough. Courses often include topics like Web Development for Business, Database Applications, and Mobile Application Development. As a result, students with moderate programming and math skills may find this major appealing. Notable universities offering MIS programs: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Sloan School of Management Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) - Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy Georgia Institute of Technology - Scheller College of Business University of Texas at Austin - McCombs School of Business Career Prospects Graduates from MIS programs often work in roles such as Business Data Analysts, Management Consultants, Financial Analysts, Operations Analysts, and IT Consultants. For instance, graduates from Carnegie Mellon University’s MIS program have secured positions at prestigious companies like Apple, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, Google, IBM, Microsoft, Procter & Gamble, and Salesforce. This demonstrates strong career opportunities for those in the field. Operations and Supply Chain Management Operations and Supply Chain Management (SCM) involves the logistics management of goods and services, the inventory of in-process goods, and the transportation and storage of finished products from the point of origin to the point of consumption. It is a combination of interconnected networks, channels, and business nodes working together to deliver the products and services needed by the end customer within a supply chain. Top universities offering SCM programs: University of Michigan - Ross School of Business Purdue University - Krannert School of Management Ohio State University - Fisher College of Business Rutgers University - Rutgers Business School Career Prospects Graduates of SCM programs can pursue various roles, such as Buyer, Demand Manager, Materials Analyst, Procurement Manager, and Supply Chain Manager. According to the According to Glassdoor, the estimated total pay for an entry-level supply chain manager is $115,679 per year. Accounting The accounting major is divided into several specializations depending on students’ focus areas, such as Financial Accounting, Auditing, Financial Management, and International Accounting. Students primarily study basic theories and knowledge in accounting, auditing, finance, economics, and business management, while receiving fundamental training in accounting methods and techniques. Career Prospects Graduates with an accounting degree can pursue a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors: Government agencies and nonprofit organizations: Roles include social security accounting, tax accounting, and government accounting. Accounting firms: Opportunities in firms such as the "Big Four" accounting firms, as well as insurance companies. Corporate sector: Roles include CFO (Chief Financial Officer) or positions in corporate finance. Financial advisors and accounting consultants: Self-employed or offering financial and accounting consulting services.  Accounting is considered a relatively easy field to find work in, especially in large cities in the U.S. This is particularly true for those pursuing the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) credential, which significantly enhances job prospects. The average starting salary for recent accounting graduates is approximately $64,000 per year. Actuarial Science Actuarial Science combines economics, mathematics (particularly probability theory and statistics), and risk management. Actuaries specialize in analyzing, forecasting, and managing financial risks related to future economic activities. Actuaries typically need to pass various professional certification exams. In a sense, they are risk managers, using data analysis to manage uncertainty and develop strategies to address it. There are not many universities that offer a dedicated undergraduate actuarial science program, and those that do are not typically the highest-ranked institutions. Examples include the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the University of Connecticut. However, many top universities offer actuarial science tracks within their mathematics or business schools. For instance, the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and the Stern School of Business at NYU both offer actuarial tracks. At the master's level, there are more programs available. When applying, it is important to check if the school offers the necessary courses for the Society of Actuaries (SOA) exams to become a certified actuary. Career Prospects Actuaries are consistently ranked among the best jobs in the U.S. due to their excellent working conditions, job security, growth opportunities, and especially salary. The profession has been ranked first in CareerCast's list of the best jobs, and is highly regarded by Business Insider, Forbes, CNN, and The Wall Street Journal. Actuaries in North America are classified into two levels of certification: FSA (Fellow of the Society of Actuaries) ASA (Associate of the Society of Actuaries) To become an ASA, candidates must pass six exams. After obtaining the ASA designation, they can take further exams to become an FSA. Actuaries are not limited to the insurance industry; consulting firms, government agencies, commercial banks, investment banks, and large corporations also seek professionals with actuarial backgrounds. The starting salary for an actuary in the U.S. is around $100,000 for recent graduates with little experience. Experienced actuaries can earn between $150,000 to $250,000 per year, and many earn more than that. This makes actuarial science a highly lucrative and stable career path.

【Case Study】How Activities in Competitions Shape Your College Application

By Katia Hua • July 28, 2024
Major: Physics Admitted to: Princeton University, University of Oxford Grades: GPA: 4.0, SAT: 1530, TOEFL: 110 Competitions: 30th International Youth Physical Tournament, China National Team, Gold Medal Other Activities: ● Started studying university-level physics in 9th grade ● Began research at a national laboratory in 11th grade ● Attended the International Summer School for Young Physicists (ISSYP) ● Piano Princeton was always the student's dream school; however, her SAT score was not impressive for Princeton. We started applying for the senior year summer programs in January and visited prospective colleges in March. Before the summer, she had already established contacts with professors, including an MIT professor who invited her to attend his class. It demonstrated her interests in the colleges. By the time the application process officially began, Chelsea had ample material to work with. What makes Chelsea's standout was her competitions, but her essays did not directly highlight her competition experiences. Instead, we showcased her independent personality, deep critical thinking, creativity, and emphasized her dedication to physics, a field often perceived as male-dominated, as a female student. Major: Mechanical Engineering Admitted to: Cornell University, University of Cambridge Grades: GPA: 4.0, SAT: 1550, TOEFL: 114 Competitions: ● Zero Robotics World Champion 2018 (MIT) ● Math Competition: AIME qualifier ● Princeton University Mathematics Competition 2018 Division B: Team Rank Overall 1 ● First Tech Challenge Team: State qualifier Other Activities: ● Research at Princeton International School Engineering Center ● ATV Chassis Design ● Student Government Vice President He had strong competition experiences, and we wrote very unique essay stories (including his experience as an apprentice in a watch repair shop). So his results were not surprising in the end; he was admitted to Cornell and Cambridge. Major: Business Admitted to: USC Marshall, UCLA, Smith, Wesleyan Competitions: ● First Prize, 2019 Model APEC Competition, Top 1% out of 300 ● Third Prize, 2020 Economics Olympiad (IEO), Top 35% out of 1500 Other Background: ● Level 9 Certificate, Piano, China Central Conservatory of Music, Highest Amateur Piano Honor ● APEC Business Advisory Council Honored Volunteer ● Columbia University Summer School ● Founded her own company to help minority women, dedicated to promoting intangible cultural heritage products We can clearly see that the level or significance of the business competition awards for this student is not as high as the previous two students. However, compared to her peers, she received very valuable admissions offers, all from business schools, which is considered more difficult to apply than Arts and Science. The key to her admission was her essays. In other words, business competitions need to be supported with strong essays. Her main essay was about her helping minority women, but it did not directly detail what she did. Instead, she wrote that her motivation was influenced by her mother, who is a successful entrepreneur. It’s a story about a mom influencing a daughter, then as the result she helps other women. This highlighted 1) the importance of being an independent woman and 2) her decision to study business and pursue a career in business. Major: Politics/Economics Admitted to: University of Oxford, University of St Andrews, Georgetown University Grades: GPA: 4.0, SAT: 1540 Competitions: ● Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge: First in NZ ● Duke of Edinburgh Award Bronze ● Runner-up for Best Delegate in Wellington Regional Model EU ● Distinctions in Australian Maths Competition ● 3rd in Mathswell in Year 11 ● New Zealand Spelling Bee – Semi-Finals Other Background: ● Lived in three countries (China, Belgium, New Zealand), speaks four languages (Chinese, English, French, Spanish) ● Economics for Leaders program ● John Locke Institute program The student's competitions were quite scattered, involving math, spelling bee, thinking challenge, and Model UN. After discussing with the student, it became clear that he was interested in politics, economics, and international relations and had no intention of applying for mathematics. I suggested he stop participating in math competitions. Instead, he continued with Model UN and secured a top-three position in a European competition before applying. This student did not rely solely on competitions for his application. His case illustrates that a successful application is a full package. Besides competitions, he had the advantage of language skills and diverse living experiences, highlighting five important qualities that admission officers look for (one of our previous articles illustrates what are the five qualities) Major: Instrument (Violin) Admitted to: Juilliard School, Columbia University (dual degree) School Background: Central Conservatory of Music Middle School, Professional Children's School, Juilliard Pre-College Competitions: ● First Place Winner in American Protégé Competition ● YoungArts National Arts Competition ● Juilliard Pre-College ● Performed at Carnegie Hall, Victoria Hall, and various festivals  For art major applicants, grades are not as important, and standardized test scores are not required. However, the professional nature of competitions, which are time-consuming and costly, plays a significant role. Among all competitions, music and sports are the most challenging. I am not here to discourage anyone. I understand that many students have musical talents and wish to showcase them during the application process. This is certainly worth doing, but I want to emphasize that college application is about presenting a whole package. If you don't have particularly high-caliber competition experience, it's crucial to find another edge to create an overall compelling application.

【Case Study】Extra-curricular activities

By Katia Hua • July 22, 2024
John Hopkins University Student Profile 1. GPA:4.0, ACT:35, Languages: English and French 2. Activities had done before hiring BosonEd · Club Leader, Anime Club · Editor and writer, MAL Rewrite club · Counselor, York Science Explorations Camp · Author of report on Alzheimer’s in news media (independent) · Wrote 10-page long research · paper under supervisor of university professor · Piano Study · Group Piano Assistant High GPA is the student's strength, but their extracurricular activities are not strong: there is no summer school experience listed here. So, the student was very anxious during the initial consultation. The student wanted to apply to the top 15 colleges but had not decided on a major. The student told me they were interested in the following majors: Psychology, Music, Management, Data Science, which are very far from each other. After the student hired BosonEd, we needed to plan his senior year activities. We talked about how to plan activities in our webinars: application theme related and major related. Since the student hadn’t determined an academic interest, we needed to focus on an application theme, which is best to base on activities the student had already participated in. Let's look at the existing activities: Anime is not usable, as the student explicitly said she will not study Computer Science. Music is a hobby not a special talent, which is hard to utilize as a theme in an application. The student's achievements in science are not very high either. Eventually, we decided on leadership as the theme. The reasons for choosing leadership are: 1) The entry threshold is relatively low, 2) It provides more room for execution during the application phase (essays, interview, etc). After we determined the theme, we help the student applied to two summer programs related to leadership: Law Summer Program University of Toronto and Yale Young Global Scholars Program. We achieved: 1) The last two summer breaks were filled. 2) A new application theme was developed. The final application theme combined leadership, science, and language strengths. New York University Student Profile 1. GPA:4.08/4, 9 honors and AP classes, No SAT 2. Activities · Model UN G10-G12 · School tour guide G10-G12 · Summer Volunteer Teacher G10, G11 · Summer program at Columbia G9 · Summer program at Wharton Global Youth Program-Future of the business world G10 · Summer program at Cornell: Science, Technology, and Politics G11 · Capstone research: Childcare distribution & Tech G 12 During the initial consultation, the student said she wanted to study economics. She had been participating in Model UN and volunteering at a school in teaching 6 th graders. Toward the senior year, the student was somewhat hesitant about her major. She worried about future employment prospects and had thoughts of changing to Computer Science. Based on these requirements, we selected Cornell's Science, Technology, and Politics summer program for her. The capstone project in 12th grade also combined social issues and technology. As the result, she was admitted by NYU and now studying computer science. Vanderbilt University Student Profile 1. GPA: 4.0, 10 honors and AP classes 2. Activities · University level research: Youth Talent Program/Biochemical interdisciplinary research/researcher · Columbia University summer program: molecular genetics Grade 10 · Summer Session at University of Chicago: Academic seminar G11 · Biology competition: iGEM co-organizer Grade 11-12 · Biological club: organizer Grade 10, 11 and 12 During the initial consultation, the student was very confused about whether to focus on competitions or research. The mother, who knew the child best, said the child was not good at competitions and had a relatively introverted personality, lacking a strong competitive spirit. We planned most activities the student participated in were research and internships, with only one competition that, by the time of the application, the student only had participated the 1 st round. The standout aspects of this student's profile were research at the university level and attending summer programs at Columbia University and the University of Chicago for two years in a row. His case tells us it's not that students in STEM fields can only rely on competitions; the key is to match the student's background. Everything needs to make sense. Some parents worry that research is hard to evaluate. This student submitted their research report as supplementary material. Georgetown University Student Profile 1. GPA: 4.0, 9 honors and AP classes, SAT: 1530 2. Activities · Tri-Head, International Student Advisory G12 · Team Member, 2022 FBLA Competition, Chicago G 11 · Brand Management Intern G9 · Summer program Pioneer Research Program –Feminism in films G 11 · Summer Intern NY State Senate Campaign Internship G 11 The student had not decided on a major. As a result, she participated in a bunch of unrelated activities, including business competitions, media internships, and business-related internships. These activities were not connected and lacked a central theme. When the student consulted me, it was already the beginning of the application year, which meant we could only plan for the last summer's activities. For someone has this “mixed type” of activities, the main approach is to extract a main theme from existing materials rather than creating a new one. I discussed with the student the activities she had already done and the majors she was interested. We finally decided that media-related fields would be easier for her to apply to, but it had to be combined with what she had already done. The student attended an all-girls school and had previously participated in business-related activities. So, for last summer's activities, we focused on media, marketing, and women's studies. She used this as her final application theme and applied for media and women's studies programs.
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