C5 Selection Process Underway!

First, students in the 7^th grade must be nominated to apply for the program. We have a network of nomination partners across Eastern Massachusetts, which includes schools, community groups and other youth service organizations. When a teacher, guidance counselor or other staff member identifies a student with high-potential who could benefit from our programs, they fill out a nomination form telling us why they think their student would be a good fit for C5. The student then has to complete an application, including an original essay on one of the major themes of the program, such as what it means to be a leader in a challenging situation.

 

After the student has been nominated and sent in their application form, we start the intense and incredible interview process! The interview consists of two main parts- a one-on-one interview with one of our staff members, and a series of team-building games. The games, with names like Iceberg and Fingertip Hula Hoops, are designed to make the students work together to overcome ever increasing obstacles in achieving their objectives. Of course, they are also designed to be really fun, and no team ever completes one without much laughing! During the one-on-one interviews, our staff ask a series of open-ended questions to find out more about each student’s experiences, personality, and hopes for the future. The answers to questions like “tell us about your best role model” and “where do you see yourself in 5 years?” give inspiring glances into the young leaders these students are on the way to becoming!

 

In 2011, we welcomed 125 7^th graders into our C5 Teen Leadership Program. In the coming weeks we will continue reading applications and conducting interviews, and decisions will be made at the beginning of April. We are so excited to meet our new Flints, C5 Class of 2017!