<p>I like what Bud suggests (and my son graduated from TJHS), but the applicant must work HARD to make a compelling case – in his essays, among other opportunities – why Duke’s intellectual diversity will be substantially enhanced and how tangible, documented experiences in his rural community are more significant than things like IB and AP courses (and so forth). Further, competitive standardized tests scores must demonstrate the candidate’s clear potential to achieve and excel at the “elite” institution.</p>