<p>“However, is the difference between an Ivy ranked in the top 10 or Vandy/Rice ranked at say #20 that big? Career wise, will an Ivy degree/connections make or break over these other schools?”</p>
<p>I don’t know that the overall difference in quality of an Ivy in the top 10 or Vandy/Rice would be a make or break issue in our house, that would probably depend on the specific schools and the departments the athlete is interested in. </p>
<p>“Secondly, from a football standpoint, isn’t an Ivy League offer the same as a preferred walk-on?” No, these offers are likely not the same. As others have said, the Ivy is likely to give better financial aid - though not necessarily true for all Ivy’s. Also, a likely letter from an Ivy (if available) is a much better option in terms of an admissions advantage than a spot as a preferred walk-on at another school.</p>
<p>"Are opportunities to play so much harder to come by as a preferred walk-on D1 that it isn’t worth it over an “offer” from an Ivy? " - yes, opportunities to play as a preferred walk-on may be pretty slim. Having a firm roster position at an Ivy would be our clear first choice among these options.</p>