#180 Is an AI Major Right for Your Teen? with Dr. Jennifer Stephan

Flourish Coaching

Jun 24, 2025

In this episode, Lisa and Jennifer discuss:

AI as a formal academic major and how it intersects with other disciplines
Strategies for aligning student strengths and interests with suitable college majors
How to assess readiness and fit for AI-related college programs and careers
Cultivating adaptable, future-proof skills in a rapidly changing tech landscape

Key Takeaways:

While only a dozen U.S. universities currently offer formal AI majors, these programs are rapidly evolving and can be categorized into technical, interdisciplinary, or business-oriented tracks, with new offerings emerging every year.
Pursuing an AI degree means committing to rigorous foundational coursework in advanced math (like calculus and linear algebra), computer science (such as algorithms and data structures), and electives in machine learning, ethics, and human-centered disciplines.
Students unsure about committing to AI can gain clarity and assess fit by engaging in real-world experiences like hackathons, data-driven research projects, or intensive summer programs such as PROMYS, which challenge problem-solving and data interpretation skills.
Even if a formal AI major isn’t available, students can still prepare effectively for AI careers by strategically choosing AI-related electives within computer science or data science programs that align with their interests and long-term goals.

“Don’t think about AI-proof skills. Think about future-proof skills, because whatever the field, whatever the time, whatever the place, learning those skills that transcend a specific discipline is what will take you forward.” – Dr. Jennifer Stephan

About Dr. Jennifer Stephan:

Dr. Jennifer Stephan has held various roles across top colleges and universities, including professor, academic dean, and board of admissions member. She holds a BS degree in electrical engineering from Johns Hopkins University and an MS and a PhD in electrical and computer engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. She is currently the Dean of Academic Advising and Undergraduate Studies for the School of Engineering at Tufts University and the founder of Lantern College Counseling, where she offers college admissions services, college success coaching, and expert support grounded in her proprietary Deep-Fit™ approach, developed through decades of experience.

Episode References:

Jennifer’s Blog, Best Colleges for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Majors: https://www.lanterncollegecounseling.com/insights/artificial-intelligence-ai-as-an-undergraduate-major-what-you-need-to-know
Unlock the Truth about Admission by Major: https://flourishcoachingco.com/majors
Episode #172 Building Math Confidence for Better Career Options with Ben Orlin https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/172
#149 Boosting STEM Student Success Through Math Contests with Vida John https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/149

Get Lisa’s Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career…(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).

flourishcoachingco.com/video