Originally Posted by HowlerKarma
I anticipate additionally that the "hard work" referenced in order to obtain this particular merit award will pay dividends during post-secondary studies, even if they seem to have been "excessive" in the here and now... again, not really understanding this point-- has such performance come at some substantial (and now regretted?) opportunity cost??

Otherwise, the work ethic and habits formed will more than make up for any loss of prestige if such a benefit were to be extended to those slightly less... illustrious, shall we say. In other words, if you're the top of the top, then you're still going to be there when it matters in two years.

It's not loss of prestige.

It's the embitterment that comes from have put a significant amount of effort in to acquire something that is then given away.

Granted, I consider college and law school to be a substantial opportunity cost. I do wish I had those eight years of my life back.