<p>I come from a school that is about 10 minute walking distance from Duke University and every year about 1/5 of the class go to Duke and about 3/4 of the class go to UNC (everyone who graduates from this school is granted free tuition at UNC). I think quite a few people like me deal with the issue: whether going to Duke is worth the couple tens of thousands more than if we went to UNC?</p>
<p>Here's how I break it down.
I do research in the Biomedical Engineering Department at Duke University so I am there almost every week. I have a decent amount of connections there between all the friends that go, Pratt fellows that work in the lab and professors. Right off the bat, I would know a bit more of the ins and outs of Duke than the average freshman.</p>
<p>However, UNC is much much cheaper with the possibility of more merit scholarships and also a decent amount of people I know there (but no professors or many upperclassmen).</p>
<p>The schools are almost equal in academics and opportunities (including cross-enrollment and how easy it is to get from one campus to the other) with the exception of a couple engineering courses (don't know of other differences). The two school's student bodies are very active with Duke slightly more focused on its graduate school than Carolina. </p>
<p>I was wondering if anyone else are in the same situation deciding between a private in-state school and an almost equally good public state school. Of course I'm leaning towards Duke, but the cost does seem to balance it out a bit (especially since I would get free tuition at UNC). Does anyone have any concrete reason why they would choose Duke over UNC?</p>
<p>I have already applied to UNC and wrapping up my Duke app so any suggestions would be appreciated.</p>
<p>Definitely apply to both and then think about it in the interim. If I were you, I'd go to Duke just because it's Duke. But then again it's up to you.</p>
<p>I think I know the high school you are talking about because I applied for it in sophomore year (but didn't get in). Like johnsmithcollege said, apply to both so you'll get the chance to compare later. I'm sure you have great chances at both institutions. I applied to both Duke and UNC early and I was really glad that Duke accepted me. Although both schools are great institutions, Duke is much more prestigious and have a lot more opportunities (at least the ones that I'm interested in). Also, if you attend UNC, won't you feel average because 3/4 of your graduating class will be there as well? Anyways, this choice also depends on what you want to study. BME at Duke is excellent. Journalism at UNC is top-notch. If BME is what you want to do, I strongly recommend you to choose Duke. Also, because Duke is a private institution, you are more likely to get financial aid (if you fall into that income bracket).</p>
<p>Good luck with your decision!! No matter which one you choose, you'll be guaranteed to get a good education :)</p>
<p>Well, if you want to study engineering, I think it's a no brainer since UNC doesn't even have an engineering school. ;) But otherwise, it's a tough choice and I think it depends on your financial situation as well as your personal preference. </p>
<p>Although UNC doesn't have an engineering school, I do know people who major in applied sciences while focusing on the biomedical engineering track. While this is a good alternative, it is very different from majoring in BME at Duke. Just something to keep in mind. Either way, you'll be in good shape. Duke and UNC are very different - but both clearly offer a good educational experience. If finances aren't a major concern, I'd pick the one your gut is telling you.</p>
<p>smath?
I'd recommend Duke for their BME program if that's what you're interested in.
Money-wise, I think it's worth it to go to Duke and they meet financial needs easily.</p>
<p>I would apply to both and see what financial aid you get from Duke, especially since you are interested in BME. In terms of overall education, I live in the NY area and both schools are very highly regarded, so in the prestige sense, I think you are fine graduating from either one. </p>
<p>If your parents are rich and don't care, then go for Duke since that is your first choice. Otherwise, it would be tough to turn down a free ride from a school the caliber of UNC.</p>
<p>If you plan to go to graduate school, then that will count more toward any future job prospects than undergrad.</p>
<p>yes, im sure we all know the public NC specialized high school being discussed...as for your choice, it really is personal. Duke is Duke so it will of course get you better prestige and name recognition (i'm biased) but whats really important is that you discuss this rationally amongst your family and make the choice that you want and is best for YOU.</p>
<p>Could you tell me about Masters n Biomedical engineering ; this is for an international admission; what would be Duke's rankings? fees? any other suggestions you have? Happy New Year & regards</p>
<p>This particular high school is selective in its admissions process so the kids there are smart and accomplished. Plus this high school is in Durham within walking distance of East Campus. And its state-supported so the graduates get free tuition at NC public colleges. Taking that into consideration, I think its easy to see how most go to UNC-Chapel Hill or Duke.</p>
<p>There's a good reason why so many students from [url=<a href="http://www.ncssm.edu/%5DNCSSM%5B/url">http://www.ncssm.edu/]NCSSM[/url</a>] (the high school being discussed) go to UNC-Chapel Hill: Guaranteed free tuition at such a strong school is an incredible deal. And Chapel Hill is big enough that despite the numbers, you'll be able to pave your own path.</p>
<p>But if you want to do engineering, Chapel Hill obviously is not a great choice (and Duke would be an excellent one).</p>