Hi, I’m a senior applying to Denison for fall 2011. I was wondering—can anyone tell me about merit scholarships at DU, specifically the Paschal Carter? I’m wondering about my chances of getting one; does Denison usually offer it to most/all NMFs, or is it more competitive? I know they offer up to 20, and that the entering class of 2014 had only 12 NMFs, but I don't know how many got the Carter. I can post my stats if you think they’d be helpful.
Denison is probably my top school right now—I really love it, its sense of tradition, great academics and beautiful campus (plus it’s only a couple hours from home). It seems like a great fit and I really hope it works out. I’d also appreciate any other insights you can give about the college, scholarships, applications, etc. Thanks in advance!
I believe all NMFs got the Carter Scholarship. If you are a NMF then there is no reason to believe you would not. You'll probably be put in the honors dorm (that was Beta House a few years ago).
^^^ The Paschal Carter requires a separate application, even if one is NMF. It may be that all NMFs get it, but it's not automatic. Also, there is no longer an honors dorm (just as there is no longer an honors program). DU did away with the program for incoming students with the fall of 2009.
A coach told us that one year Denison got 35 NMF, which blew the budget, so that's why they limit the Carter scholarship to 20.
Here's my question:
The scholarship application asks you to write about something you've read that's changed your behavior, values, or philosophy. The Denison supplement also asks you to write about a book that has influenced you.
Can you use the same book (and some of the same material) twice? I assume the people who read the scholarship applications will also be reading your entire university application.
The question on the Denison supplement seems to want a short answer; the Paschal Carter application requires a longer essay. So, the answers would be pretty different. Still, there's no harm in contacting the staff person who oversees the selection for scholarships (I can't remember her name, but she was extremely helpful when D was applying). Just ask for their advice.
Thanks for the info, everyone!
minofrau, I've been wondering the exact same thing about the essay, and I'm not sure.
I do have a somewhat burning question, though:
Can you clarify the application process for this year???
I've found a .pdf app online which I *think* is from a past year; it has the Cicero/reading essay question, and says it is due JAN 15. Is that correct? I called my admission counselor last Thursday, and he wasn't sure...said he thought I should have received info and an app in the mail months ago, and would email me back the following day, but I've been unable to get a hold of him since. Tomorrow I'm going to try him again and then 1-800-DENISON, but I'm getting nervous. Can anyone clear this up for me?
"These awards are competition based and open only to National Merit Semi-Finalists. A specific application is required. To be named a recipient, candidates must achieve National Merit Finalist standing."
No due date
And here's the .pdf I'm talking about: http://www.denison.edu/admissions/carter.pdf
Maybe it IS up-to-date. The link to it is gone from the scholarships page, though, and my counselor gave me the impression back in October that the application would be different this year...
All the scholarships on this page say submit an application for admission by January 15. I'd guess that's the deadline for applications for admission and scholarships.
I'd just call the admissions office and see what they say (and, in the meantime, write the essay?).
Take note that, unless the policy has changed from a few years ago when my son applied, Denison does NOT allow students to use merit scholarships toward study abroad. This is highly unusual and something to take into consideration if a study aboad experience is in you plans.
Parent100 is correct - this policy was still in effect last year. Daughter received the Paschal Carter scholarship but chose to attend another school where she can use her scholarship for study abroad. It's also important to compare the minimum required GPAs at each school - some schools require very high GPAs to keep the scholarship.
Thanks for the info and advice.
That really is too bad about studying abroad...I've heard that before, and it is a definite downside. I will have to think about it.
I talked to Admissions today and got it all figured out. I spoke to the staff person who coordinates the Carter, and she does recommend making your two "book" essays different, since they're being read by the same people.
haha.
