<p>Can a person get into Wharton with very good test scores, good essays and recommendations, but not outstanding ECs? Does anyone know of any person who got in without leadership? Thanks</p>
<p>I’m much stronger on academics (test scores, essays, recs), and especially science and tech compared to my leadership, which really so far is almost nonexistent. My ECs are mostly science/tech based, but I have just founded Stock Market and Personal Finance clubs. I’m strongly considering Wharton’s M&T program, but it’s very tough to get into, and I would just as happily just get into Wharton as a single major.</p>
<p>It’s going to be tough to get in without outstanding ECs, as top colleges use those as their serious candidates all have great academics, so you need something to make you stand out. Do you have any hooks?</p>
<p>Don’t have any hooks, but I am an international student (Asian Canadian). Cuz I just came to Canada 2 years ago, it is pretty hard to involve in outstanding ECs. You sound pretty qualified, though. Wish you good luck!</p>
<p>As a current student, I’d say it would be really tough. I personally don’t know any other Whartonites that didn’t have at least one significant leadership position, but I suppose it’s still technically possible.</p>
<p>Thanks for the advice. But what counts as significant leadership position? I am an exec in some of the clubs, does that count?</p>
<p>Leadership is less of a title and more of an act. Although having several formal leadership roles in clubs doesn’t hurt at all, I think the leadership they look for is seen in your writing and resume and letters of reference. That’s because it’s seen in everything you do whether you have a formal position of leadership or not.</p>
<p>So, if you hold a formal position of leadership, you have to be able to answer the question, “what did you do with your leadership position?” That was exceptional. Even if you didn’t hold any titles, you can still demonstrate how you are a leader in life (some kids had to take care of younger siblings, some had to keep the family business going due to an illness or death, some had to travel for hours everyday to get a better education). Kids like this had no time for formal leadership positions but had to be good leaders of themselves and others and maybe inspired other people in various ways.</p>