Findings of this study are: (1) Three interconnected patterns of experience emerged from this research: (a) socialization to the administrative role; (b) opportunity, and (c) sponsorship. (2) For these six women, socialization to the administrative role, known as "anticipatory socialization," was self-directed without the benefit of role models or mentors. However, these six women had the support of sponsors. (3) The women encountered both barriers and opportunities within their individual districts. Opportunities were enhanced by district growth, affirmative action and ethnic representation. (4) Their appointments to principals hips were attributable to sponsorship: either direct, with personal intervention from a superior, or symbolic, in the form of support from the local community or from affirmative action requirements. (5) The women in this study had a strong motivation to help their own ethnic community, an ethic for hard work, self-imposed high standards for excellence, and perseverance in pursuing their career goals.