<p>Is anyone here willing to give my Duke essay (and maybe commonapp essay) a read? If so, post below or PM me and I'll PM it to you. BTW, I'm only sending my essays to parents or college students (preferably from Duke).</p>
<p>Also, how much of a difference can essays make? I have great test scores and unusual ECs, but unfortunately, my GPA is atrocious (~3.35 UW with upward trend in a highly competitive HS. Took 8 AP classes), and it'll probably destroy my chances for any top 20 school including Duke. So... if my essays are absolutely incredible (IMO they aren't... yet :P), will they be able to make up for my GPA? </p>
<p>I watched a video by the dean of admissions and he said that the 6 factors of admissions (academics, test scores, ECs/personality, recs, essays, course rigor) are weighed equally. However, I also read a lot on this site that GPA is by far the most important part of admissions . Do you think that I'll be able to make up for my poor academics by being exceptional in some of the other 5 areas?</p>
<p>I don’t have time to read your essays (sorry) but I’ll just say that the GPA is not the be all and end all in admissions. It certainly is important, but certain deficiencies can be somewhat compensated for in other ways such as:</p>
<p>1) Good ECs (which it seems like you have)
2) Good recs from counselors and teachers who can address the issue of your GPA in their letters. You should ask them to specifically talk about your improvements in academics, strengths, and your potential and ability to handle college level work. A letter from your teacher or counselor that says “NerdyAsianKid has had a few bumps in the road in his courses but I am absolutely certain that he is prepared to excel in college and his recent work in AP classes back that up” will go a long way.
3) Standardized tests such as APs, SAT, and SATII can show that you can do well academically
4) Course rigor is also factored in when considering academic performance for obvious reasons. </p>
<p>^I agree, particular numbers don’t tell the whole story, just keep in mind that Duke’s acceptance rate is hovering around Ivy League type numbers so it’s just about as selective.</p>
<p>^ Agreed. Be VERY wary of posters who may still be in high school, regardless of who they claim to be. I’d advise you to carefully go through someone’s post history before sending them your essay. I’m an EDer myself, but unfortunately I’m swamped right now and don’t have time to give very useful input. Sorry!</p>
<p>I am applying ED so have already sent in my essays so I couldn’t do anything. i do have a lot of experience though because i took an essay course so i would love to read them if you would like.</p>