<p>Hey everyone-</p>
<p>As Park finalist notification approaches, I have done a lot of thinking about what I would do if I receive this scholarship (yes, I know it is still a long road, but wishful thinking!)</p>
<p>Is the Park Program really as well known as they market it to be? I want to go to medical school, and obviously a fair amount rides on the prestige or 'name' of your undergraduate institution. With UNC in state, would I be better off just paying full tuition there?</p>
<p>ravens13: I don’t know about how prestigious the Parks Scholarship is nationally, but it’s very well known in the region. And NCSU sends more people to medical school than UNC does, but I know that number is skewed because we also have more students.</p>
<p>Take the scholarship, go to (a great) college for free, work your ass off, and you’ll be just fine getting into medical school.</p>
<p>ravens13, </p>
<p>I agree with ncstatefreshman. Absolutely take the Parks. The Parks Scholars program alone will help you make connections, open doors, and be engaged in the world. Your accomplishments and life experiences as a Parks Scholar (combined with good grades) will open doors to many of the best Medical Schools. </p>
<p>Also, Medical School will cost a fortune. IMHO, Don’t heap ANY undergrad expenses onto that by turning down the Parks and paying to go elsewhere.</p>