<p>I have heard and read that Claremont Mckenna only excepts applicants that are heavily involved in leadership activities, and that if you don't, you have no chance... I have an excellent extracurricular profile and a solid GPA and SAT, do I have chance even though I do not have much leadership?</p>
<p>You really never know unless you apply. From what I hear all students have been involved and accomplished in their own ways but I’m sure not all students are “heavily involved in leadership” but many are.</p>
<p>Leadership is not narrowly defined I think. My D was not in student government or captain of any teams but she did a lot of out of school activities which I think showed independence and leadership in her own life. They want motivated, active people.</p>
<p>okgal is right on. CMC seems to be all about taking people with potential, whether or not they have showed it yet. If you are a passionate person who has big plans, and express it through your essays, you will have a great chance. But okgal said it best when she said leadership is not narrowly defined. Keep in mind, CMC wants to create a diverse class, and the people they admit will reflect that. Best of luck!</p>
<p>Yes theajay89, that’s a good word; passion: that’s what they are looking for.</p>
<p>Alright, thanks you guys…</p>
<p>A few of my friends didn’t hold any leadership position back in high school and still got in with a scholarship… leadership is a plus, but it won’t hurt you if you don’t have it as long as you show the admissions that you are still a good candidate. IMO, just show them who you really are and they’ll see whether you will be a good fit. Good luck!</p>
<p>what are some good examples of leadership? captain of sports? first chair in orchesta??</p>
<p>That’s BS. Leadership positions etc… help but you in no way “need” them. Apply and see what happens. Good luck.</p>
<p>To call it “BS” is misleading. CMC will want to see leadership potential. It can be demonstrated by holding leadership positions and/or by showing leadership initiative. While leadership positions are obvious, leadership initiative can by be shown by such actions as tutoring/teaching/coaching, raising awareness of a cause that is important to you, effecting change at school or in your community, and other activities that show you want to have a positive impact on the world around you. Don’t let anyone mislead you - showing that you are or will be a leader is important to CMC.</p>
<p>captainfalcon-</p>
<p>schsswcw gives good advice. (And for what it’s worth, kio888 is a former Pomona student.)</p>
<p>Our D is at CMC…she is not a leader in the traditional sense- no student govt etc but sort of leads in whatever she does. If you have outstanding ECs in any area, that is probably the case with you , as well.</p>
<p>CMC students all seem to be very goal oriented and have a certain energy. Fit is very important. If you feel that you belong at Claremont, make sure you show them why in your application, interview etc.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>