<p>I am applying to a very selective LAC (listed as one of the CC's top liberal arts colleges), though probably one notch below the most selective (like Williams, Bowdoin, etc). I know the chairman of the board of this college and am considering contacting him. If he agreed to help me gain admission, how much influence could he have over the admissions committee?</p>
<p>What are you going to ask him, “Can you let me in?” Obviously if he wanted you to get in he would have, but seriously?</p>
<p>Of course not. I would probably send him a copy of my application and test scores and ask for a recommendation. What I am wondering is if his sphere of influence counts for a lot, or if it wouldn’t play a major part in the committee’s decision. I am not familiar with how institutions work and how much power the chairman of the board is regarded as having.</p>