Well, that’s kind of ridiculous to be “hurt.” It’s not about him, it’s about the college. Applicants would do well to understand a college’s reason for the EA round. For Michigan, it’s not about capturing the cream of the crop up front. It’s about capturing those most likely to attend – and that does not include applicants whom they think are very likely to get into Ivy and similar. So he should take it as a compliment.
I’m very curious about this “merit” award you say he got. I’m not aware of any Tufts merit money at any time within recent memory.