<p>So, this is kind of a random question, but my grandmother's cousin died a few years ago and left Pomona College about 7 or 8 million dollars in his will. He was a graduate of Pomona, of course, and had an pretty noteworthy career. A great man. </p>
<p>I was just sitting, reflecting, and was wondering if that would help me at all when it came to admissions? Our last names are different, unfortunately, but is there any place to explain the connection on an application? Or would they even care?</p>
<p>Thanks! And again, I'm just curious :) The title of this post is more or less deceptive, as I'm not actually adamant about "buying my way in" :P</p>
<p>On most applications, there will be a place to list alumni you are related to.</p>
<p>Oh, thanks PyroQueen! Do you think this connection would be good enough though? He was only the cousin of my grandmother, so it’s not like I’m closely related to him.</p>
<p>The only money you need to give them is for the application fee.</p>
<p>I would hope that you don’t get in solely for that reason…</p>
<p>LOL xD it might make a difference. doubt it though ;)</p>
<p>Not likely to matter. First, the relationship is not a close one. Second, they already have the money and the distant relative in question is already dead, so why would it help them to admit you? Unless they thought you, your parents, or your grandmother were good for another $7-8 mill. If not, you’re better off thinking about other things, like your grades, test scores, ECs, essays. Things that might actually help you get into Pomona.</p>
<p>Guys, you took this way too seriously 
Obviously my grades, ECs, and essays are super important, but I was just wondering if this would help! My grandmother went to Berkeley unfortunately, so the connection kind of died there, but still! I was just curious I’m not actually thinking I can get in now!</p>
<p>What if I wrote my essay about how much he influenced my life… :P</p>
<p>
Did you actually know him well? Of course I don’t know your relationship with him and I’m not usually the one to judge another person’s character, but it seems like you hardly knew him and that you’re just trying to use him as tool to get a leg-up on admissions. But if you really did know him well and you can make an essay without it dragging on, then go for it. Otherwise, they’ll just see that you’re obviously trying to use his alum status for an advantage.</p>
<p>Please! Realize that I’m not being serious! I’m not even going to apply to Pomona! I want to major in International Relations, and last time I checked Pomona didn’t even have such a degree. I want to go to university in my native Europe anyway :)</p>
<p>Don’t judge me! I was clearly joking, hence the “:P”! My morals are better than that!</p>