Cornell vs. Duke ED 2016? Engineering

Colleges and Universities A-Z Cornell University
1

<p>I'm debating between these two schools. As of now, I'm leaning towards Cornell. I genuinely do feel that I would be a better "fit" there and would be more comfortable attending Cornell (this is based on interactions with current students and alumni). I like Duke a lot also, but I wanted to know if any students/alumni had comments regarding both of these schools (especially about the engineering department). At this point, I'm fairly set on Cornell ED, not sure if I'm competitive enough:</p>

<p>Stats:
Male, from competitive public HS in MA (class of ~400, about 15-25 to ivies each year)</p>

<p>GPA: ~3.84 UW, 4.6 W (6 APs by graduation plus 2 college classes) - this would be a 3.9+ had it not been for freshman year (upward trend)
Rank: My HS does UW ranks, so I get penalized a bit. I'm around the top 10%- give or take 3-5 spots, so definitely top 12%
SAT: 2010 (retaking later, but will use ACT)
ACT: 33 (36 M, 35 Science, 31 Writing, 31 Reading)
Subject Tests: 790 and 770 on Math lvl 2 and Physics subject tests.
Intended Major: MechE</p>

<p>Extracurriculars: I'm not going to go in much depth but I have a fair amount of ECs related to engineering and science. I have leadership positions in clubs, have gone to state/nationals in competitions and have worked in labs (I intend on sending an additional rec from mentor and/or research abstract)</p>

<p>Also, does Cornell frown upon sending additional material (recs, activity sheet/resume)? I don't feel as if the Common App is enough to explain my extracurricular activities. Additionally, I wasn't able to take one of my AP tests this year- I had the flu (I received a good grade in the class but could this hurt?).</p>

2

<p>First of all, definitely apply. You’ve got a good shot at either. (Don’t let anyone tell you differently). Given the low admissions percentages, neither is a sure thing (Don’t let anyone tell you differently).</p>

<p>Personally, I think that Cornell is the better school, and overall has the better engineering program. If you feel Cornell is a better fit – there’s your answer!!! However, I’m an alum, and therefore inherently biased. Bottom line, is that they are both excellent programs. </p>

<p>If one of these becomes a first choice, consider ED, which should improve your chances.</p>

<p>Don’t know how the school views supplemental materials – call the admissions office? I don’t think AP scores are reported as part of the application process.</p>