NESCAC guy wrote:
It can be cheaper for the parent if child goes state school, or d1 with scholarship.
It can be great for the child if they use running to get into a top school and they make the most of it.I will respond to several of these points later but we are off to track practice. I am curious
I will respond to several of these points later but we are off to track practice. Unless ultra-wealthy, cheaper is practical given the probable real future issue our children face which is housing costs. Elite and pricey schools can theoretically pay back over time through their network, I've seen that in some friends. In California we are fortunate to have some highly sought after public universities and prime technical resources and community.
To summarize a few points
1. Retention rate is a great metric. I had noted that, but I doubt accuracy of Runcruit's numbers. Data is so mesmerizing, but also when it's bad data. 5% off and it's terrible data.
2. Food issues radar required. We are huge foodies and always cooking at home. I know some families that have been through eating issues with kids, any amount of money paid up front to be in a healthy running program would avoid the destructiveness of that and be worth every penny.
3. NESCAC GUY points out that habits rub off. I will have to contemplate that. I think the most upside would be if they are the habits to achieve success. The D1 Dad I met at the Duke invitational described some virtuous success factors between teammates. That was at a huge D1 program with massive academic support for the athletes. A well-capitalized NESCAC school has the resources, I have no idea if they use them to really support athletes. Worst case due to lack of scale at small schools can't provide adequate support.