We just returned from finalist weekend for the Park Scholarship at NCSU (D22 - OOS - Engineering), and wanted to give some detail for others that might be interested in the future. It looks like a phenomenal program. They do a great job of involving current and past Park Scholars in the program, both during the finalist weekend and (is seems) throughout the student’s experience at NCSU. We were particularly impressed at how dedicated both the scholars and their parents were in helping answer any questions we might have.
In addition to a full-ride (i.e., cost of attendance), the scholars also have access to a stipend to be used for additional learning/service opportunities. Some Park Scholars even explained that they were also able to get funding from individual colleges at NCSU to “stretch” their experiences. (E.g., they got $1000 from Park, $750 from the dept of XYZ, and $500 out of pocket to go to some conference or international trip.)
Equally as important: they join a very elite group within the university and have access to a large alumni network. Professors seem interested/engaged, the Park staff is great, and the Park Scholars themselves sell the program.
This isn’t just a program for the “smart” kids - I think that’s a given - it’s for those rare young adults that make an impact anywhere they go. They were very clear that being a Park Scholar isn’t an award for past achievement - it’s an investment in the student to go do great things. And they do everything they can to make that investment pay off.
Financial considerations aside (which are definitely awesome) - it is a great program and should be considered.
Happy to answer whatever questions I can (as a parent).
