Join Dr. Pamela Ng, former admissions officer at both Stanford and Harvard, and Adonis Rubio, a Stanford Biology graduate and current Stanford Immunology PhD student and researcher for an inside look at what selective colleges are actually looking for in STEM applicants.
Applying to college as a STEM student takes more than strong grades and test scores. Selective colleges are looking for students who demonstrate curiosity, initiative, and a clear connection between their interests and their impact.

In this session, former Stanford and Harvard admissions officer Dr. Pamela Ng and Stanford Immunology PhD student Adonis Rubio break down how top colleges evaluate STEM applicants from academic preparation and extracurriculars to research experience and personal narrative.

You’ll gain a behind-the-scenes look at what stands out in highly selective admissions, along with practical guidance on how to build and present a compelling STEM profile. Drawing on experience from both the admissions committee and the research lab, our speakers will help you better understand what it actually takes to be a competitive applicant.
  • Standing Out in STEM Admissions Presentation
  • Live Q&A - Bring your questions!
  • 1741043196-4904736ecaeecd59
    Admissions Expert
    Dr. Pamela Ng brings over a decade of experience in admissions and mentoring, having served on admissions committees for Stanford's undergraduate, medical, and graduate programs.

    Pam obtained her BA at Harvard, M.S at Georgetown and PhD in Neuroscience and Psychiatry at Stanford. She also completed her Postdoctoral work in the Dept of Anesthesia and Pain Management at Stanford and taught as Clinical Faculty in the Dept of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences as well.

    With expertise in medicine, STEM, and humanities, she is passionate about guiding students through the admissions process and helping them excel in their academic journeys.
  • 1777325660-978962850ec35374
    Senior Advisor
    Adonis Rubio is a PhD candidate in Immunology at Stanford University School of Medicine, where his research focuses on microbes, viruses, and the immune system. He earned his BA in Biology from Stanford University, where he initially pursued the pre-med track before discovering a passion for biomedical research and transitioning to a PhD pathway.

    During his undergraduate studies, Adonis conducted research at several leading institutions, including Stanford University, the Pasteur Institute in France, the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub in San Francisco, and Genentech. These experiences have provided him with a strong foundation in scientific research and a global perspective on the field of biomedical science.

    In addition to his academic work, Adonis has supported students through the college admissions process, helping applicants gain acceptance to highly selective institutions such as Stanford, Brown, and UC Berkeley. He is committed to mentoring students as they navigate applications, explore academic interests, and pursue opportunities in STEM.
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