The founder of the Shad Valley (Ontario, Canada) summer program for gifted teenagers in 1984 suggests that the current selection process may not be adequate and fails to encourage applications from some students who would profit from the program. The program is seen to provide direct benefits to the universities that host the program, the sponsoring companies, society at large, parents of students, and Shad Valley students. Unfortunately, however, attending Shad Valley is often seen by students as the "ultimate merit badge" to which students automatically apply because it is expected of them. Students attending the program are classified into a broad range of categories such as "balanced achievers,""terminally quiet,""attitude problems," and "surprise packages." It is suggested that some form of major hurdle beyond the normal application process be instituted. Such a challenge would change each year and involve presentation skills. Examples are given of questions to which students would respond on a brief audiotape. (DB)