<p>Updated version of what I’ve posted in previous threads:</p>
<p>Both the Robertson and the Morehead are great programs that share many similar benefits, and you certainly couldn’t go wrong with either. </p>
<p>But there are a few seemingly small yet important differences to consider: the Robertson tends to put more emphasis on collective programming and offers unique access to Duke; the Morehead has an exceptionally strong alumni network. The selection process and criteria for the programs might also dictate which makes the most sense for any one individual.</p>
<p>I’ve attempted to outline these and other differences below, but keep in mind that these programs are more similar than they are different.</p>
<p>Selection: Both are exceptionally competitive merit scholarship programs. You must attend and be nominated by a Morehead nominating high school, or be a North Carolina resident, to apply for the Morehead. Anyone can fill out the supplemental materials form for the Robertson. For both programs, UNC Admissions also “pulls” a handful of applicants from the general admissions pool for consideration. The Morehead requires evidence of “physical vigor,” although that requirement has been broadly interpreted in recent years. Although both programs seek it, demonstrated commitment to service and a passion to “change the world” are particularly important for the Robertson.</p>
<p>Financial Benefits: Extremely similar. Both Moreheads and UNC Robertsons receive funding that covers not just tuition but room and board, a living stipend, and summer opportunities. [Note: Duke Robertsons receive funding for tuition, room and board (as of fall 2008), and summers, but do not receive a living stipend.]</p>
<p>Summers: Both programs provide funding and support for several summers of exploration and engagement, but the Morehead-Cain places more emphasis on independence and the Robertson more on community. Moreheads have wide choice in a choosing an outdoor leadership retreat prior to freshman year that they go on independently with mostly non-Moreheads, while Robertsons all go on one NOLS retreat together. Similarly, the summer before sophomore year Robertsons choose to do an internship of their choice in one of four cities where they spend the summer living and learning with other Robertsons, while Moreheads live independently and have wide-open placement options. The final two summers in both programs are fairly open-ended, and both programs now offer additional funding for personal development and exploration during the school year to travel to academic conferences, etc.</p>
<p>Advising/Mentoring: Both programs offer excellent advising and mentoring services that supplement those offered by UNC and the UNC Honors Program. Morehead-Cains have a few major group traditions (such as “check day,” when they receive their checks), but by and large they are encouraged to spread out and make their mark on the campus as a whole as everyday students. Robertsons, on the other hand, are encouraged to spend time together and have much more collective programming (dinners, talks, and special classes in their freshman and senior years). </p>
<p>Alumni: This is a distinguishing feature of the Morehead. The age of the Morehead program means that it has a large and exceptionally successful alumni base that will often go to great lengths to help current Moreheads. The strength and importance of this benefit should not be underestimated. (The Robertson program graduated its first class of scholars in 2005, and as such does not have such a vibrant network.)</p>
<p>Unique Access/Collaboration: This is a distinguishing feature of the Robertson. Robertsons have unparalleled access to both UNC-Chapel Hill and Duke. They enroll in classes, join clubs, and otherwise engage fully in both the academic and social life of both universities, allowing them to benefit from the distinctive strengths of each. (They also spend a semester living at their sister campus during their sophomore year.) </p>
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<p>A few notes based on previous posts on this thread</p>
<ul>
<li><p>Bali: the Robertson does take in-state people at both Duke and UNC. At UNC, I believe the Morehead-Cain is required to take a certain number of in-state scholars and the Robertson is not, so the Robertson ends up with fewer in-state scholars. At Duke, the BN Duke and Trinity Scholars Programs are designed for students from North and South Carolina, so most high-achieving students are pushed towards those programs.</p></li>
<li><p>The Robertson program has recently opened up its summer program options so that there is a lot more flexibility, as some posters have noted.</p></li>
<li><p>Summary: Both are amazing programs. You really can’t go wrong with either. If you happen to be in-state or a varsity athlete, then those probably help you most with the Morehead. If you love the idea of having full access to Duke, go with the Robertson. Other than that, go with your gut.</p></li>
</ul>