As the applications poured into Michigan State University and acceptance letters sent out, one incoming freshman received more exciting news than just an acceptance letter to this Big 10 University. Parker Nolan received MSU’s Distinguished Scholarship Award – which is considered among the most competitive awards in the country. Nolan, who comes to MSU from Simi Valley, California, plans to enter the Eli Broad College of Business and pursue finance.

Nolan Parker

There’s more to Nolan Parker than his incredible academic achievements.

This prestigious scholarship, valued at about $120,000 for in-state students and approximately $200,000 for out-of-state students, covers full tuition, room and board, and a stipend for up to eight semesters of study

“I chose MSU because of the overall feel of the school. About an hour into my visit I felt right at home with the people and the enormous, beautiful campus.” A feeling all who have walked the grounds of Michigan State’s campus can relate to.

While you know that this Spartan is incredibly bright, here are some fun facts you may not know about Parker.

  1. He started a music festival called FAYM that focuses on highlighting high school and college bands in Southern California.
  2. In the long term, Parker hopes to start a tea company using aquaponically-grown herbs in an indoor vertical farm.
  3. In his time here at Michigan State, Parker is looking forward to joining the Student Investment Association, Quantitative Finance Club and the Hammocking and Fencing clubs.

University Distinguished Scholars were chosen from an MSU applicant pool based on academic records, accomplishments and interviews with the finalists. Students were selected by the director of admissions and dean of the Honors College on the basis of their high school programs, achievements and standardized test scores.