<p>I was waitlisted by Amherst, Williams, Swarthmore, and Middlebury, and rejected by Princeton and the University of Chicago. Imagine my surprise when I received not only an acceptance letter from Dartmouth, but also a “need-based endowed scholarship”:
[quote]
Based on your outstanding record, accomplishments, and promise, you are one of a select group of entering students assigned to one of Dartmouth’s need-based endowed scholarships. While Dartmouth College does not award merit-based aid, the more generous packaging of these endowed scholarship awards represents our modest attempt to recognize the significant achievements of those most highly recommended by the Admissions Office. These funds are made possible through the generosity of individual alumni, Dartmouth Clubs, and other friends of the College, many of whom take a keen personal interest in the students designated for this honor.</p>
<p>As a result, your need-based award has been packaged with $450 less self-help (job and/or subsidized loan) and $450 more scholarship assistance. Your self-help may be further reduced by other achievement related outside scholarships which you may receive. This more favorable packaging will continue througout your Dartmouth undergraduate career, assuming you maintain your anticipated high level of academic achievement and continue to demonstrate financial need. You will be notified of your specific scholarship assignment at a later date. Read the enclosed materials for other details and conditions of your award.</p>
<p>Please accept my warmest congratulations<img src=“Stats%20are%20%5Burl=%22http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/princeton-university/302463-tomorrow-we-will-run-faster-stretch-out-our-arms-further-one-fine-morning.html%22%5Dhere%5B/url%5D,%20if%20anyone’s%20interested.%20I%20was%20far%20from%20spectacular.” alt=“/quote”></p>