<p>jym…thanks. He is a great kid, and we’re proud of him. I guess we’re just a little out of “sorts” trying to figure out what we’re doing and how much we’re actually looking at. It would have been better I think if so many people (teachers, friends, etc) had not said “he’s looking at a free ride” so often. We weren’t sure what to expect and I can only blame ourselves for letting the imagination run wild. To answer your question, we never expected to scholarships to pay for books, personal things or meals, but were kind of hoping for tuition and housing. Our older son wasn’t an Eagle, but had a 32 and was Stuco pres, too and did get a free ride (smaller state school). I guess that’s what we were reflecting on.</p>
<p>We still haven’t given up hope…he’s applied for many merit scholarships on several scholarship search engines including Fastweb. He will apply for the Eagle scholarship as well as local ones. According to what scholarships consider “financial need”, we have none. That doesn’t mean that we can afford the total shortage. However, my son is more optimistic than after first receiving the letter and tells me he can pay back a college loan, although he doesn’t want one. If he gets out in three years and a half years instead of four (due to earned credits), it will help. Either way, this is a test of character and we will all learn from it.</p>