Admissions Process at Lewis and Clark College

Hey, y'all. As a rising junior, I'm starting to seriously look into colleges and Lewis and Clark caught my attention. Can anyone provide any insight into their admission process? Do they value certain parts of the application more, like leadership positions or the personal essay?

In general, Lewis and Clark College takes a holistic approach when evaluating applicants, meaning they consider all aspects of an applicant's profile. That said, certain aspects of the application can carry more weight.

First and foremost, your academic performance is highly important. Lewis and Clark will consider your grades, the rigor of your coursework (like whether you took honors, Advanced Placement, or dual enrollment courses), and your class rank, if available. They're looking for evidence of a consistently strong academic performance. However, starting with the 2020-21 application cycle, the college has implemented a test-optional policy, so SAT and ACT scores are not necessarily required. But if you believe your scores highlight your abilities, feel free to submit them!

In addition to academics, your extracurricular involvement and leadership positions also play a significant role in the process. Keep in mind that what matters here isn't necessarily the quantity of activities, but rather the depth of involvement and impact. Admissions officers are interested in how you've made a difference within your school community or other domains through your activities.

The application essay also comes into play. Lewis and Clark uses the essay to get to know you better and understand your motivations, passions, and how you think. Make sure your essay is genuine, thoughtful, and well written. And, if applicable, use it as a platform to discuss any challenges or hardships you've encountered and how they've shaped you.

Lastly, Lewis and Clark does consider demonstrated interest, so demonstrating that you've researched the school and have a compelling reason for your interest in attending can be beneficial. However, the college understands that not all applicants can visit campus, so other forms of engagement like virtual tours, online information sessions, or interactions with admissions staff at college fairs are also valued.

In summary, Lewis and Clark looks for applicants who have excelled academically, been engaged in their communities, displayed leadership, and can articulate their ambitions and how the college fits into their goals. Remember that every part of the application offers an opportunity to showcase a different facet of your personality and skills.