<p>From RobertsonScholars.org: </p>
<p>“Students do not need to submit their applications to Duke and/or UNC-Chapel Hill until regular application deadlines of January 2 and January 15, respectively.”</p>
<hr>
<p>The Robertson is significantly more than a monetary award, although the money is certainly not inconsequential. You get funding and support for three summers of service, research, travel, and exploration as well as for full tuition (as well as room and board and a living stipend if at UNC-Chapel Hill). You also become part of a tight-knit social and academic community, receive special advising and mentoring, and have unique access to both Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill.</p>
<p>All Carolina and Duke students can take up to one course each semester at the other school if it is not offered on their campus. The difference with Robertson scholars is that they can take unlimited courses and actually live at the other campus for a semester and have full student privileges at both schools.</p>
<hr>
<p>I think the perception that Duke students have nothing to gain from visiting Chapel Hill is just flat-out wrong. UNC has a very well-regarded undergraduate business program, for example, and I know of a 2011 Duke Robertson who is thrilled about the idea of getting involved with that. Carolina’s language programs are also often taken by Duke Robertsons because they are seen as strong offerings, and as a larger university, UNC also has a wider variety of courses in general. </p>
<p>Duke certainly has a lot to offer UNC students as well. I myself am a 2011 UNC Robertson, and am excited to be taking a Documentary Studies course next semester at Duke. And I expect to take several public policy courses over at Duke as well, as I’ve heard incredible things about them.</p>
<hr>
<p>It’s not uncommon to turn down HYPS for the Robertson. Reasons often include a sense that with the individualized attention, access to faculty, and limitless summer opportunities, the Robertson would be more likely to lead you in the direction you want to go in life. And the money certainly doesn’t hurt!</p>