<p>Alright, to start I'm applying to Duke just because it is one of those schools that I wanted to apply to just because even though my chances are probably slim. My question is what are my chances of being admitted if I write an amazing essay and get really good recommendations despite my grades?</p>
<p>I know my grades aren't Duke level, thats why I'm posting.
GPA: 3.75
Class Rank: 44
SAT: 1200/1600
SAT Chem: 650
SAT Math II: 680
Have taken all honors and AP classes.
Senior Classes: AP Biology, AP Physics, AP English, Psychology, Civics and Govt., AP Statistics, AP Calculus BC, and Economics.
I have also taken AP US History and AP Chemistry (Junior Year).</p>
<p>Extracurriculars:
National Honors Society
Amnesty International
Key Club
Rocket Club
Tennis
Soccer
100+ hours volunteering at hospitals
Started 2 community clubs</p>
<p>Has anyone been offered admission to Duke because they have I guess an aura about them showing that despite their average grades, this person has potential?</p>
<p>Do you have any outstanding achievements within your ECs? Major impacts?</p>
<p>Just because you don’t fall within the middle 50% SAT-wise isn’t the end of the world. However, standardized test scores are 1 of 6 crucial components in the Duke application, and when I say 1 of 6, it is probably heavier weighted than the others. You need something outstanding to show Duke that they WANT you and you’d be a great fit when building their class.</p>
<p>Since your standardized test are on the low side you better have an outstanding essay, recs, and extracurriculars. Just don’t put all your hope in Duke like some people do then become suprised and angry when things don’t go your way. Just stay positive and work your butt off until you apply.</p>
<p>Alright, thanks guys and trust me I won’t be surprised and angry if I don’t get in. I know my chances are low but I’m hoping my recommendations will try and defer admission officers from my grades a little. I have two recommendations (physics and math teachers) that have seen me grow over the three last years and I read one of them. It focused on my problem solving abilities and my ability to help other students, etc. It was almost two pages long. Hopefully, officers get an idea of who I am and find me a student they would like to have at Duke.</p>