Stevens Institute of Technology: Admissions Blog

College Essays

A great college essay goes a long way in making your college admissions application distinct. While writing one may be anxiety provoking, putting the process into perspective will help.

Look at the essay as an opportunity. It is your chance to present a compelling view of who you are and what you will contribute to the school of your choice. Breaking the task of writing your essay(s) into manageable, efficient steps will make it easier and bring great results! Here are a few tips:

1. Establish your goals. Before any big project, consider what you are trying to accomplish. The admissions essay is about illustrating the qualities that don’t necessarily come through in the rest of your admissions application. Think about what you want the admissions officers to know about you. Is it your determination? Your creativity and quirkiness? Your ingenuity? Make a list, and keep those attributes in mind when outlining your essay.

2. Stay focused. Don’t make the mistake of trying to write about everything interesting and notable you’ve ever done. Those reading your essay need to understand what you are saying and follow your theme without wandering down too many paths and hitting dead ends. You can avoid confusion by focusing on one thing that is interesting and important to you, and backing up that specific topic with a few examples.

3. Remember, it’s about YOU. Your writing skills are important, but schools are equally interested in character. Admissions officers look for students who have the potential to learn and grow as well as add something to the campus. Avoid listing your accomplishments – show a process of learning. A story or example you share should have a moment of revelation that illustrates how an experience transformed you, helped you become the college-ready student you are today.

4. Balance. Don’t just write what you think they want to hear. Write what you want them to know about you. Choose a story or experience that supports what you want to convey, one that is interesting and significant while staying consistent with your “answer” to the essay question or requirement.

5. Edit and proofread. Look for redundancy, confusion in your narrative, places that need tightening up or statements that require more explanation to illustrate your point. Most importantly, have others review it too! In addition to discovering spelling or grammatical errors, they can let you know if you addressed the essay question that was posed. Think of the essay as the college’s first impression of you; you want to avoid severely watering down, if not ruining, that impression by inadvertently including errors that could have been avoided simply by having other people read your essay and give you honest feedback.

Above all, relax. Think about writing the essay not just as writing, but as connecting with your interests and passions. If you do that, chances are, it will show you at your best.

If the Stevens admissions staff can be of any assistance during your application process, don’t hesitate to contact us at admissions@stevens.edu or 1-800-STEVENS. Be sure to let us know if you would like additional information about Stevens. To learn more about visiting Stevens and/or applying to Stevens, Click Here.

Planning a Campus Visit

Gearing up for your senior year? One of the most important things you can do this summer is visit the colleges that interest you. The campus visit can be the most important part of your college selection process, so make sure you get the most out of the time you spend at a school.  Before you go, look through brochures and view the college's website to find out basic information. This will give you more time on the tour to find out information that is not found in the printed material. Here’s a quick checklist of what you can do to make the most of your campus visit:

Meet an admissions counselor. Even if the schools do not require a formal interview, talking one-on-one with an admissions counselor is a useful part of any college visit because he or she will be able to share information on deadlines, requirements, financial aid, and the overall process of preparing your application. For the schools that do require an interview, keep in mind that often times you can schedule this even before you formally apply. A college visit may be a great opportunity to fulfill an informational and/or formal meeting with an admissions counselor.

Take a tour. Campus tours led by students of the college are great ways to gain “insider” perspectives on what the student experience is really like. Ask them about the student culture. Don’t be too swayed by what individual students like or dislike about the social scene; just get the facts, and then determine what works best for you.

Tour the town. Not all your time in college will be spent in the classroom or on campus. Scope out the surrounding town to see what types of restaurants, clubs, stores and other establishments exist. Current students are great resources for activities on and off campus, so be sure to use them as a resource.

Take notes. Keep a notebook with all of your campus visit observations. This book will be a great resource if you forget some details. It’s also helpful to snap a few pictures of things that you really like or want to remember about a school.

Ask questions. This is your chance to get answers firsthand. Some questions you might ask:

• What distinguishes the college from other similar schools?
• What academic factors are considered during the admissions process?
• Are professors accessible outside of class? 
• Are there tutoring services available on campus?
• What are the college's most popular academic programs?
• What kind of career services are offered to students?
• What percentage of students receive financial aid?
• What percentage of students live on campus?
• What types of meal plans are available?
• What hours may students access food services?
• What are the most popular extra-curricular activities?
• What do most students do on the weekends?
• What’s the surrounding city/town like?
• Are there sororities and fraternities on campus? 
• How safe is the campus?

Meet as many people as possible. In addition to meeting with an admissions counselor, talk with professors to get an idea of what they expect out of a student. Speak with current students to see what they think about the college as a whole. Ask if they are happy with the college choice that they made and why. Essentially, don’t pass up an opportunity to find out more!

We wish you luck with your adventures this summer. If the Stevens admissions staff can be of any assistance during your application process, don’t hesitate to contact us at admissions@stevens.edu or 1-800-STEVENS.

Stevens' Early Decision II Deadline is January 15

Prospective undergraduate students, if Stevens is your top choice but you haven't yet applied, we thought you would appreciate a friendly reminder that our Early Decision II deadline, January 15, is just over a week away.

Why do nearly half of our incoming undergraduate students choose an Early Decision option? Here are a few very important reasons why:

• If you are accepted to Stevens through Early Decision II, you will know by February 15th where you’re going to college. The search comes to a pleasant end, and you can relax and enjoy the rest of your senior year.
• Upon acceptance through Early Decision, we are able to provide you an estimate of your financial aid package so you get a head start on planning for the costs of attendance.
• With the search process out of the way, you would have a chance to explore Stevens more deeply and make important connections with fellow accepted students and current students who are eager to assist you in acclimating to Stevens. You can also plan ahead to attend various faculty luncheons designed to introduce you to instructors who will most likely also serve as your mentors throughout your career at Stevens.

Just as a reminder, the Early Decision plan is “binding,” meaning if you submit a tuition deposit as an Early Decision II candidate by the stated deadline, you agree to 1) Withdraw all applications from other institutions, 2) Not initiate any new applications at other institutions, and 3) Attend Stevens in the fall 2012. Our expectation is that if accepted, you will be joining the university, and will confirm this by submitting your deposit.

Also keep in mind that if you have already applied to Stevens through regular admission but would like to switch your application to Early Decision II, you may contact our office. Stevens makes it easy for you to apply using our online application or the Common Application. Both allow you to waive the application fee. They can be accessed at www.stevens.edu/sit/admissions/apply/instructions.cfm.

We look forward to assisting you in any way!

The Interview, an Important Part of Your Application Process

If you’ve done your research or begun your formal application to Stevens Institute of Technology, you may be wondering, “Why does Stevens require an interview for all applicants?” At Stevens, we believe a personal interview is a critical step in the application process because it gives us an opportunity to get to know you and learn more than what is on your application. Through the interview, we hope to understand more about your interests in and out of the classroom. We also feel that the interview is a great way for you to learn more about Stevens, and we encourage you to come prepared with questions for us.

The interview is a one-on-one meeting between a prospective student (either applied or planning to apply) and a member of the Undergraduate Admissions staff.  For students living within 250 miles of our campus in Hoboken, NJ, this is done in person.  Students outside that radius may visit campus for an interview or conduct one over the phone.  The interview takes anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes and time is reserved afterwards for family members to join the meeting and ask questions about the admissions process and Stevens. Tours of campus are also available either before or after the interview if you have not already taken one.  Please budget an additional hour for this experience.

Don’t quite imagine yourself on the other side of the application and admission process yet? Take a look at our student blogs. Our bloggers update frequently, so you can also subscribe to all or any of the blog feeds to get real-time, ongoing reflections and advice from those who know Stevens best and want to tell you about it throughout the year – photos, videos, comments about school and social life, it’s all there. Check out Michael’s blog for starters.  A sophomore at Stevens, he was once where you are now!

We look forward to learning more about you from our interactions and wish you all the best in the college admissions process.

Letters of Recommendation for College Admissions

ADVICE FROM THE OFFICE OF UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS AT STEVENS

Recommendations carry a lot of weight in your college application process. For that reason, it’s important to make the right selection when choosing a recommender. Here are some tips to help you secure recommendations that can help make your application distinct: 

Who to ask: First and foremost, colleges want to hear from a teacher who can describe your motivation, work ethic, reaction to setbacks, or resourcefulness. You might also choose to provide a recommendation from guidance counselors, coaches, or club supervisors with whom you have had a successful or positive interaction. They should know you well, like you, and respect you. Most importantly, however, they should be reliable. Don’t ask parents, relatives, or people who are biased toward you. Also, don’t ask people who don’t know you well.  Stevens requires at least one from a teacher and one from a guidance counselor.

How to ask: Take some time (after school, for example) to really talk to the person you’re asking. Explain which schools you are applying to, and what you plan to study. Make it easy for them – provide this information in writing, and feel free to include a list of potential highlights they may choose to include (e.g., a research paper, group project, or other distinguishing aspect of your relationship with them).

When to ask:Approach recommenders early in your senior year, well before your application deadlines. Some of the best, most engaged, and most popular teachers are swamped with requests for recommendation writing.  No matter who you're approaching with the request, give them ample time to complete the task. Include a list of the colleges you are applying to and the dates the recommendations are due.

Why you should follow up:Don’t forget to write a thank-you note after the recommendation has been submitted, and remember to keep your recommenders informed about your ultimate college choice. They’ll be glad to know that their participation helped you get to this point, and by showing gratitude and sharing your success, chances are you'll solidify a relationship you might rely on in your future endeavors too. 

If the Stevens admissions staff can be of any assistance during your application process, don’t hesitate to contact us at admissions@stevens.edu or 1-800-STEVENS.

Good luck!

Make the Most of Your College Visit

Yes, gearing up for your senior year in high school includes resting and having fun this summer. But another important thing to do is visit the colleges that interest you.

Like checking the weather forecast before you pack a bag for the beach, there are some things you can do to prepare for visits to college campuses. Read admissions brochures and check out the schools' websites (don't forget what they have in the way of social media like Facebook, Twitter and blogs like this one). This allows you more time during campus tours to explore the specific things that interest you.  Plan to meet with admissions counselors, even if the school you're visiting doesn't require a formal interview.  Map out a tour of the city, town, or local area surrounding the school to see what life is like off campus.  Make sure your camera, smartphone - or whatever you use to snap photos - is charged and ready to go.  Pictures make a great resource when you're comparing your top choices later.  And prepare a list of questions you might ask students, staff or faculty you'll meet during your visits.  Need some suggestions?  Try these:  

• What distinguishes this college from other similar schools?
• What academic factors are considered during the admissions process?
• Are professors accessible outside of class?
• Are there tutoring services available on campus?
• What are this college's most popular academic programs?
• What kind of career services are offered to students?
• What percentage of students receive financial aid?
• What percentage of students live on campus?
• What types of meal plans are available?
• What hours may students access food services?
• What are the most popular extra-curricular activities?
• What do most students do on the weekends?
• What’s the surrounding city/town like?
• Are there sororities and fraternities on campus?
• How safe is the campus?

Whatever you do, don’t pass up any opportunity to find out more!  We wish you luck with your adventures this summer.  And if we can be of any assistance during your application process, don’t hesitate to contact us at admissions@stevens.edu or 1-800-STEVENS.

Summer Visit Days. Register Today!

The best way to discover Stevens Institute of Technology and all that we have to offer is to visit our Hoboken, NJ, campus this summer.  Experience life at Stevens for yourself!  

Click here to plan your summer visit. We look forward to meeting you!

SUMMER VISIT DAYS:

Thursday, July 7: Bissinger Room, 4th Floor Howe Center; Check-in: Howe Center Lobby

Monday, July 11: Bissinger Room, 4th Floor Howe Center; Check-in: Howe Center Lobby

Wednesday, July 20: Bissinger Room, 4th Floor Howe Center; Check-in: Howe Center Lobby

Monday, July 25: Bissinger Room, 4th Floor Howe Center; Check-in: Howe Center Lobby

Thursday, July 29: Bissinger Room, 4th Floor Howe Center; Check-in: Howe Center Lobby

Tuesday, August 2: Bissinger Room, 4th Floor Howe Center; Check-in: Howe Center Lobby

Tuesday, August 9: Bissinger Room, 4th Floor Howe Center; Check-in: Howe Center Lobby

Affordable Education

Stevens is committed to making a quality education as affordable as possible. About 90% of our students receive some form of Stevens aid. Information about financing your education at Stevens is available by Clicking Here, and our admissions staff is available to answer any and all of your questions.

We are proud to offer a wide range of scholarships to our incoming students. You may want to consider applying for the DeBaun Performing Arts scholarship, the FIRST (Robotics Competition or Tech Challenge team) scholarship, or the Science and Technology Center Volunteer scholarship.

A college education is an investment. Stevens has a notable history of preparing students for challenges in engineering, the sciences, business, and the arts. Consider all that Stevens offers, and you will see your investment as a springboard to future successes.

ATTENTION: Our Admissions Application deadline is February 1^st.  You can Apply Online today!

If you have applied, be sure to submit any missing documents and complete your interview if you have not already done so. The deadline for submitting your supporting documents is March 15!

 

The Interview, an Important Step in the Admissions Process

If you’ve done your research or begun your formal application to Stevens Institute of Technology, you may be wondering, “Why does Stevens require an interview for all applicants?”

At Stevens, we believe a personal interview is a critical step in the application process because it gives us an opportunity to get to know you and learn more than what is on your application. Through the interview, we hope to understand more about your interests in and out of the classroom. We also feel that the interview is a great way for you to learn more about Stevens, and we encourage you to come prepared with questions for us.

The interview is a one-on-one meeting between a prospective student (either applied or planning to apply) and a member of the Undergraduate Admissions staff.  For students living within 250 miles of our campus in Hoboken, NJ, this is done in person.  Students outside that radius may visit campus for an interview or conduct one over the phone.  The interview takes anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, and time is reserved afterwards for family members to join the meeting and ask questions about the admissions process and Stevens. Tours of campus are also available either before or after the interview, and we suggest you budget an additional hour for this experience.

Don’t quite imagine yourself on the other side of the application and admission process yet? Take a look at our student blogs.  Our bloggers update frequently, so you can also subscribe to all or any of the blog feeds to get real-time, ongoing reflections and advice from those who know Stevens best and want to tell you about it throughout the year.  Photos, videos, comments about school and social life, it’s all here! We look forward to interacting with you.

November 1 Chat: Transcript and FAQs

Our November 1 chat was a great success. A lot of ground was covered, so our counselors have put together a list of Frequently Asked Questions from the chat:

How do I contact my Admissions Counselor?
Applicants are able to find their admissions representatives by visiting the Find Your Counselor  or Contact links located on the admissions homepage. Feel free to e-mail or call your counselor with any questions about the application process or about Stevens in general. 

If I choose to switch my application from Regular Decision to Early Decision, what additional materials need to be submitted and who do I need to notify?
Candidates wishing to switch their application status from Regular to Early will need to send their admissions counselor an e-mail in order to officially have their application changed.  In addition, ED candidates need to submit the "Early Decision Agreement Form," as well as the "Financial Aid Form for Early Decision" if they intend to qualify for need-based aid. Both forms can be found at  http://www.stevens.edu/undergrad/ED.html. 

How many Clubs/Organizations are offered at Stevens?
There are currently over 120+ clubs/organizations on campus; feel free to check out the growing list of organizations at the Student Life Web site, http://www.stevens.edu/student_life/. If you find that a particular club is missing from the list, Stevens is a place where it is quite easy to start your own!!

For additional FAQs about applying to Stevens, visit http://stevensadmissions.typepad.com/blog/2006/11/applying_to_ste.html

If you missed the November 1 chat, a transcript is now available on our Web site.

To sign up for future chats, visit our chat schedule. Our next chat will be November 20.