What is the best way to get a scholarship for Stanford?

Can I get a track scholarship to Stanford?

• I am a junior in high school. If I was ever going to get into Stanford it would have to be because of athletics. I'm a good, not great student. 3.5 gpa, 31 ACT. In Illinois, the two events that I feel I am best at (decathlon and javelin) are not official high school events. I've been scored by coaches in the decathlon three times with my scores being around 6,400, with a very low pole vault score. My javelin is in the 210'-220' range. I've emailed the coaches and they told me to come out to the camp this summer to show them what I can do. I couldn't really get a feel for what they thought through email. What are my chances with those numbers? I'm 6'3 195lbs.

• Answer:

  To get recruited by Stanford, you really have to put up some good numbers. If you're really good at one particular event (such as the javelin in your case), try to showcase that-the javelin is NOT an event out in California. However, you may want to provide the coaches a total rundown of your PR's in each event, especially when it comes to the decathlon. Maybe that might circumvent you having to attend a camp...who knows? As far as Stanford goes, you'll know if Stanford wants you or not. I would hope for it, but I wouldn't necessarily seek it out. For Stanford to look your way (or any other school for that matter), you'll need to place or even win an event at your Illinois HS State Meet and have your numbers be comparable to other athletes in the nation.....check www.dyestat.com to compare yourself to other athletes in other states. Otherwise, you might have to go to their camp to show your stuff and get some the coaches' heads turning. Good Luck with that!!!