<p>This is a common concern and difficult choice, which I completely understand. At the end of the day, you have some great choices and will be fine whichever path you choose.</p>
<p>As for Duke and high level privates in general they simply have more resources for students and more one on one attention, which often translates to better preparation. That said if you are aggressive, go to office hours and tutoring, then UCLA would offer a high quality education. Finally, there are minority students at Duke (albeit in smaller numbers than UCLA) and you can be active there, however there is also extreme elitism and racial stratification, which you find at most high level institutions (public and private) - but that is the “real world” as well so one might consider how that would prepare for that reality.</p>
<p>Finally, you are not “abandoning” anyone if you go to Duke. You are representing your community and you will be able to have access to future power brokers as well, as long as you are comfortable and confident in who you are, you will be fine. If anyone says you are “abandoning” your community then they may be underestimating your own resolve to being true to your commitments and they really don’t have your best interest at heart. There are always reasons not to do something, but do not be guided by fear or guilt.</p>