The two programs use similar criteria when considering applicants. "The Rhodes scholarship looks at academic achievement first, and then leadership abilities, community service and vigor.

The Marshall scholarship looks at pretty much the same criteria, except instead of vigor they factor in individual creativity and flare," Bohlmann said.

Applicants in both competitions agreed that the hardest and most time-consuming activity was the written part of the application.

"It is tough to take the disparate elements of your life and try to make them into a cohesive whole," said Elizabeth W. Dunn '99, a Marshall applicant from Lowell House.

Matt S. Caywood '99 of Leverett House, who is pursuing the Rhodes, echoed Dunn's sentiments.

"I've never worked so hard on anything in my life. My roommate and I calculated that we had spent at least one minute for every word in the essay," he said.

Although the final decision for both of the scholarships will be made months from now, many seniors already have a good idea of the course of studies they would like to pursue overseas.

"I want to go to the University of Bristol in England, and study stereotype suppression," said Dunn. "I have read a lot on the subject by a professor at the university, and it would be a great opportunity to work with him."

While aspirations for study run high, for many the pursuit will require a lot more. work Quincy House resident Marc P. Diaz '99 said he would like to study private sector patronage of art museums in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

But for now, his focus is on the Rhodes application.

"I think most people will be looking to revise and edit their essays," Diaz said of the work left to do. "Right now, I am giving mine to every person I know in the hope I can make it as polished as possible.