<p>I’m not sure I said it exactly like that. I believe STRIDEs are offered to those students that Smith really wants (usually top caliber students and leaders) as a means of enticing them to Smith, whether they need aid or not. For those who don’t qualify for much, if any, aid, it acts as a huge incentive since the package is likely to be better at Smith than at other choices. For those who do get substantial aid elsewhere, it levels the playing field.</p>
<p>Smith uses the scholarships to attract top students who might be leaning toward co-ed institutions. After all, not many LACs in their ranking area offer such awards.</p>