<p>I would also make the important point that merit awards at UR are not based solely on having the highest numbers. High numbers are helpful, but there are no cut-off scores at any stage of the process. Richmond Scholars are selected by our faculty committees based mostly on essays and other evidence of potential for outstanding contributions to the classroom (or lab, or theatre etc. . . .). That is not to say that those who do NOT receive awards are judged not to have potential for excellence–they do. But Scholars are the best of the best. </p>
<p>As for Ohioguy–congratulations on the big award at Vanderbilt. That is wonderful. My feeling is, though, that there is purpose in making scholarship decisions based on things other than stats and it is that the same students do NOT get rewarded at every institution but that the awards get spread around to more students rather than you piling up a long list of full-ride offers. More students being recognized is a better thing if you ask me.</p>