Application Process

Becoming a part of Lock and Chain is not just finding another organization to add to your resume, but discovering a new family. The bonds we form between our members become so strong that we can always count on one another to be there to help, without questioning what the situation entails. Since Lock and Chain is such a large commitment for all members, applying is not to be taken lightly.

Each year, 15 freshmen are selected from a large applicant pool on the basis of academic achievement, dedication to community service, leadership ability, and social skills. The selection process for becoming a member of Lock and Chain is therefore highly competitive. It is worth noting that knowing or befriending current members of Lock and Chain will not have an impact on your application. Students must meet the following eligibility requirements to be considered for membership:

• Washington University students who will be Sophomores during the 20010-11 school year
• Applicants may be in any of Washington University's five schools
• Members may not go abroad during the fall or spring semester
• Members must maintain full-time student status throughout Sophomore year
• Applicants must submit completed application prior to deadline (check back in the spring)
• Incomplete or late applications will not be considered
• Applicants must be available for both individual and group interviews
• Minimum GPA of 3.0

Applying to Lock and Chain is a multi-part process. A cut will be made after each round in the application process, decreasing the size of the application pool with each step. Applicants will be notified as to whether or not they have been invited to continue via email. The members of the new Lock and Chain class will be announced prior to the end of the spring semester.

Application Information

The application process consists of a written application, which involves short and long essays and a letter of recommendation. The recommendation may not be from a current member of Lock and Chain or a family member. However, a Lock and Chain alumni may write it. Also, high school teachers, counselors, and principals are welcomed. There should be no identifying marks, such as names, on any of the pages; all 15 members will score this portion of the application on a no-name basis.  Check back in the spring for information about deadlines as it becomes available.

After the original paper application the process will include as many rounds as necessary in order for a final decision to be made.

For more information on applying to Lock and Chain, see our Frequently Asked Questions.