<p>i intend to apply for RD this fall. I have checked the newly updated common app and wanted to start early on my sup essays for Duke University, since this is really one of my top choices. However, I only saw one "WHY DUKE" question (I am applying for arts and science).
I am confused and want to know if this is all we need to submit for Duke sup, since several others schools I am looking at all have more questions and those questions are also more specific ones, like Uchicago and Johns Hopkins. they require applicants to upload answers to 2-3 questions in their sup.
since duke is such a high-ranking school and certainly one of my dream schools, i can't believe "why duke" is all they are asking in the supplement! I also feel this is not adequate to show all aspects of me as an individual.
am i alone or does anybody agree with me? am i missing out anything???
Plz help!!! thanks!</p>
<p>Why Duke is all there is and even that question is optional and, if done, it is supposed to be only 1-2 paragraphs. Some schools put less weight on essays or focus only on the Common App essay. Vandy and Wash U, for example, have no essays with their supplemental applications.</p>
<p>^ Or Harvard for that matter ;)</p>
<p>Honestly, don’t worry about the supplement. It is truly optional, but it will only help you. My roommate didn’t do it, and she still got in. Don’t forget that Duke is also reading your Common App essays and teacher recs, so those will be helpful in showing them who you are as a person. They ask “why Duke” because it really is an important question. Don’t be cookie cutter with your answer - show them that you have done your research and you have very specific reasons for wanting to come to Duke. Also, don’t forget to have your own unique writing style. My Duke essays were really weird - not even joking. I’m pretty sure I referenced Titanic in my Why Duke essay, haha. We all love Duke here, and if you do too, make sure that comes through. We want people who are excited about Duke, so be excited! Hope this helps :)</p>
<p>If you feel you have something important to say, do the why duke essay. If you’re just gonna copy paste the admissions website forget it. Personally, I met my regional rep who supported my admission and she loved my why duke essay. I’m fairly certain it helped me get in.</p>