<p>Yes, Wake's merit aid is very difficult to come by (we are paying full fare). But they seem to offer a great deal of financial aid if one qualifies.</p>
<p>As a safety, he might want to take a look at College of Charleston. Beautiful town, good school, many more females than males, division I sports. I think your son would qualify for a merit scholarship there and the overall cost for OOS students is pretty low anyway.</p>
<p>Washington & Lee in Virginia can be very generous with merit scholarships. Don't know about athletics, but I think they probably are. </p>
<p>My son sounds like yours. He's a good technical writer, but not particularly creative. I think his personal statement essay was dull, but he still got into some very good schools. Remember, he'll have some choice with the common app. essay. My son chose an academic topic (about a current world issue, I think), which made it easier.</p>
<p>doubleplay
People here may think Im a broken record but take a look at the Honors College at the U of South Carolina (would be a safety for your S).Specifically look at the criteria for the McNair Scholarship for out of state students. Very large merit based awards based on grades,tests and outside criteria.Tuition for winners and finalists (non winners) reduced to in state rates.They love leadership and public service EC's from the kids.Medical school ties and first class business school.Big time sports if your S is interested.SE locale,great campus.Extra detailed app for the McNair but well worth the effort.</p>
<p>Doubleplay</p>
<p>Not sure what your son wishes to major in (did I miss it?) but you might want to put Sewanee (University of the South) on your list as a match/safety. They promise to meet 100% of financial need. Sewanee is an amazing place in many ways. I am an alum, as I am also from Vanderbilt. Be glad to share more if you would like.</p>