If you feel that you are self-directed and can live with limited contact, however, you should do so. Again, you must figure out what level of faculty involvement is most crucial for you to succeed and you should preferably feel your potential readers out before you ask them to commit. Find out if your department permits you to have readers outside of CGU . The 5-C community and wealth of other colleges and universities in the area may provide faculty resources for you. Do not be afraid to ask your department chair or advisor to make calls of introduction for you or to ask them to make recommendations for other possible readers.
Most departments only allow one non-Claremont faculty member to serve as a reader, however.
Again, it is important that you determine what you department s requirements are before you begin. Be prepared . Going to your committee members empty handed is a sure-fire way to have an unsuccessful and unproductive meeting that can leave you in despair. Go to them with drafts or notes or questions prepared.