Hey guys. I’m looking at the Engineering Honors Program and Plan II at UT. Can anyone clarify what distinguishes EHP from a regular engineering major? And what do both of these programs generally look for in a student’s application? Thank you all so much.
I don’t know about Engineering Honors, but regarding Plan II there are several things they look for. The essays count 50% in their evaluation of the applicant, so stellar essays are a must. Also, they really value creativity and a unique way of looking at the world. That needs to shine through in your short answer prompts which are available on the honors application after you have already submitted the main application.
I know about EHP, but not about Plan II, how convenient!
EHP is not a major program like Plan II. It’s a program that distinguishes you as an honors engineering student and gives you access to honors perks, but you aren’t required to take a special curriculum like for Plan II. For example, my friend got into EHP and is majoring in chemical engineering, so he can take “honors” classes, do an honors thesis, graduate with honors, room in the honors quad, and get honors advising and free dinners (tbh, I’m a little salty that I didn’t get in). It’s a really good opportunity and worth an application. Applying doesn’t affect your chances of getting into your major. Admission to the university and to the honors program are completely separate. They don’t really care about anything beyond the rigor of your courseload in relation to engineering, ECs, and AP/subject test scores for EHP. I’m pretty sure there were no real essays, so I don’t think they care about creativity or personality much.
Plan II admissions criteria are listed here: https://www.utexas.edu/cola/progs/plan2/admission/application/criteria.php
Thanks for the responses! If one were to be admitted both programs, would it be possible/practical to be a part of both? Also, how heavily are test scores (SAT/ACT, SAT II, AP) weighed when being considered for EHP? I understand they are only one part of a much larger picture for Plan II, but are they more important for EHP? Thanks again!
I think you can do both, but I don’t know if it’s difficult to fit it into four years or not.
Thanks! Can anyone elaborate on EHP’s admission process and how heavily they value each specific component (test scores, EC’s, essays, etc.)?
I would concentrate on one or the other. Engineering employers are not going to care in the least if you excel in liberal arts. They would much rather you take extra classes in your area of study. For example, as a structural engineering student, it made much more sense for me to take an extra design class (say in masonry structures), rather than studying French literature.
Oh okay, I see. If one were to not get into any of the honors programs but still try to apply to live in the honors quad, how likely is it that they’ll actually get to?
Not very likely. But the honors dorms aren’t any nicer than other dorms, it’s more just an opportunity to live with other honors students.
I heard the social life in the honors dorms is a great mix of fun/academics, but the buildings themselves aren’t that great.