<p>Anyone know anything about the Bryan scholarship for freshman athletes (other than what is on the website)? The Davidson coach in S's sport is strongly encouraging him to apply for it. I, frankly, can't imagine that S has any chance for it, but maybe I am missing something. It requires that you have your application in by September 22, but you don't have to commit to ED. S hasn't even visited Davidson! If he were to get the scholarship, it sure makes Davidson more attractive. Any info is appreciated.</p>
<p>My D2 is at Davidson on an academic scholarship, so the timing of scholarship decisions is not the same (they were made in mid-April). Trying to draw parallels when the criteria are different is dangerous, but if there is a parallel, I suspect the invitation may mean several things (in addition, of course, to the belief that he might get the Bryan):
The Bryan applicants are processed early, so they'll get at least the same special attention the ED applicants do from the Admissions Office and will get input from the coach connected to the application early on.
If he's invited to the campus in connection with competition for the scholarship, it will give the coach (or at least the Admissions Office) a chance to do some selling.
Even if you don't get the Bryan, Davidson has a bunch of merit money that it hands out, both with and without athletic components. It is my impression that, in fact, there is a good deal more available than is highlighted on the website.<br>
As a result, there may be reasons to apply that go beyond the opportunity to compete for the single scholarship (not to denigrate your son's chances for that, of course).</p>
<p>If I hear anything else, I'll let you know. D2 knows some scholarship athletes, and I'll ask.</p>
<p>When we did a "NC tour" of colleges and universities, Davidson was our last visit and almost an afterthought. About 20 minutes after we got there (and that was before students returned from summer break), D2 decided it was going to be her first choice by a wide margin, and her parents agreed (only to start some serious worrying about the tuition, which, thanks to her hard work, ultimately became a non-issue). It is a really nice place. D2 participates in a club sport there; a high percentage of kids there are involved in sports in some way. The attention given on an individual basis to students has been just as advertised (as are the academic demands). The facilities are first-rate. If your son would be comfortable at a small school, he really ought to take a look.</p>
<p>Thanks a lot. That helps. I wish S had visited Davidson already, but it wasn't that high on the list so it didn't happen. If he does get to be a finalist for the Bryan (assuming he can complete the app by Sept 20.....) that would be a great opportunity to visit. He is looking at some smaller schools (Williams for one) but I think in his mind he prefers a larger school. BUT-just as you said, one visit to the "right" school can change your thinking! S is politically conservative and would be an impact athlete there in his sport. This could be interesting.....</p>