<p>lagunal,
The students who receive the Trustee Scholarships are not in the bottom of the so-called “better schools”. They are the top students anywhere. Keep in mind we have great schools of theatre, music and cinema where scores are important, but not as key as imagination, creativity, accomplishments, talent and vision.
One newly committed student wrote to me with SAT II scores of many 800s, SAT 2390, numerous awards for outside ECs as well as being an accomplished musician. Yes, this student chose to attend SC after being admitted to ivies and other highly ranked colleges.
A scholarship was important, but this individual received scholarships elsewhere.<br>
On Facebook there is a long list of students who have posted they are going to SC over offers elsewhere. It is impressive. Some of these new commits will be taking on loans to enter SC. I suggest you visit the USC Class of 2013 and read the list.
Just for your information SC’s scholarships are for all four years. It is necessary to maintain a 3.0 average and take 16 units per semester. There may be a few alumni scholarships which are for 1 year, but the student is fully informed about those. Also, the university scholarships “follow” the students if they choose to study abroad, which is not always the case at other universities.</p>