It is in fact a sponsored project, but its an independent study with a professor that is cool enough to think that trying to think outside thw box is worth sponsoring. This however is not for a competition. This is my brain child that I have been mulling over for some time and now have been fortunate enough to find an advisor that wants to see it happen.
However, i am also co-leading a design team for the SAE West heavy lift design competition in April. That is much moreof what you speak in terms of a high lift, generally under powered application. For those you want conventional design, high lift airfoil, and even a lifting tail if you are cool enough
In that case, you are absolutely right.
Rather, the design requirement for this plane 3 fold: 1) Carry water baloons. 2) Unconventional Design. 3) Be totally SWEEEEEET
Thrust covers a multitude of sin.