Applications for the 2010 Leader of the Pack are due to CSLEPS by Oct. 1 at 5:00p.m.
The leader of the pack contest is the University’s unique method of selecting its homecoming king and queen. This has been in effect since 2002. Unlike other universities, such as East Carolina University, which relies solely on a student body vote for candidates that represent specific student organizations, N.C. State’s selection process is comprehensive.
According to the CSLEPS website, the process begins with the completion of an application, which includes the collection of basic information as well as three essays that focus on character, leadership, and community.
After a selection panel reviews the initial applications, six male semi-finalists and six female semi-finalists are chosen. Each semifinalist is then allotted a 20 minute interview with a different committee, which then narrows the pool to three male finalists and three female finalists.
A traditional student body vote is then initiated on Nov. 8 to aid in the final decision.
The final two Leaders of the Pack are selected based on the number of points they accumulated over the course of the entire selection process, and will be announced on Nov.13 during halftime at the homecoming football game against Wake Forest University.
Taylor Massey, a senior in material science and engineering and the 2009 male Leader of the Pack, said this distinct tradition is a way for the University to eliminate the view that this is simply a popularity contest.
“I think our way of selecting a homecoming king and queen is far superior to the ways other universities do it. This process selects two very well rounded individuals whose experiences here at N.C. State have benefited both the University and the student body,” Massey said. “By not having just a student vote, we eliminate any form of a popularity contest and have the best possible student represent our University as the Leader of the Pack.”
Massey isn’t the only one who favors this method over those of other universities. Courtney White, a freshman in middle grades education, said deciding on the homecoming king and queen in this matter is refreshing since the selection focuses on multiple areas.
“Coming from a high school where you simply put your picture on a poster and people chose someone from a list,” White said, “I think it’s great to be able to know that whoever you vote for actually has merit.”
Along with commitment to the University and to other students, Massey said that Leaders of the Pack demonstrate a dedication to leadership and public service, and he encourages all students, especially those with such a passion for service, to apply.
At the same time, Nicole Machado, a senior in apparel and textile management and the 2009 female Leader of the Pack, said she cautions students to handle their time wisely and avoid making the costly mistake of becoming involved in too many organizations and projects at once.
“I think that students should work their way into organizations and the community. If you gradually add organizations and volunteer projects you won’t overwhelm yourself and you will be much happier and healthier.” said Machado. “Over doing yourself isn’t productive, especially in college, since students’ main goal is to graduate with a degree.”
However, Machado said she applauds those who apply and said that not only has being a Leader of the Pack been a remarkable experience, simply applying for candidacy is praiseworthy.
“Relax and enjoy the process of running for Leader of the Pack. It’s a great feeling to be semi-finalist, finalist, and definitely Leader of the Pack; but just remember that you are awesome for just applying.”
