The Eagle Select Program at Central Methodist University pits some of the most outstanding high school seniors against the challenges of high grade point averages, ACT scores, and interviews and testing.
The winner comes away with more than bragging rights. They take the prize of four years of tuition-free attendance at Central, valued at more than $90,000.
Audrey Brandon, a senior at Moberly High School, won the latest CMU Eagle Select award. The competition was held February 2, and Audrey outshone 25 other outstanding students from across the United States who had been invited to participate in the competition.
“I am always impressed at the quality of students we see at this competition,” noted CMU Admission Director Adam Jenkins. “These are students with the highest test scores and grade point averages, but more importantly, really bright students that are often deeply involved in their schools and communities. We hear constant praise from our faculty about the students that compete and I am proud to be a part of the day.”
To compete, Brandon and the other competitors were required to have at least a 3.5 grade point average and a minimum ACT score of 26. Contestants come to CMU the day of competition to undergo a series of interviews and tests involving math, verbal, and written skills.
Brandon wowed a number of CMU faculty, staff and administrators with her knowledge and poise, Jenkins said.
"Winning Eagle Select still feels a little surreal,” Brandon said. “I made friends during the competition and everyone I competed against was incredibly qualified. I'm honored beyond belief by this opportunity that has been presented to me, and I'm excited to start a new chapter at CMU in the fall. I know I won't be disappointed."
Audrey, daughter of Kathy and Bob Brandon, has already proven her excellence at Moberly High School. During her last four years, she has been active in tennis, band, jazz band, National Honor Society, Scholar Bowl, and Math Team.
She was also selected to attend Missouri Girls State her junior year and also earned the privilege of attending the rigorous Missouri Scholar’s Academy following her sophomore year. Also a National Merit finalist, she plans to study psychology and mathematics at CMU.