<p>Sokkermom, I am happy to declare a truce, but there was no real battle. As I said, I have no intention to demonize Duke or find more issues. I have formed my own opinion about certain aspects of the school, but as you said no school is perfect. The fact that thousands of students think it IS the best place for them speaks volumes about the appeal of the school. My friends who currently attend Duke do think it is a real life version of Shangri-La. </p>
<p>Oh, please do not get too worked up regarding the connections. My parents are not disgruntled alumns, and I am not a disgruntled reject. I love the color blue and like the Blue Devils. I do, however, also like the Tar Heels and the other shade of blue. The connection is simple: several of my parents' best friends are diehard Duke alumni who seem to devote their life to further the Blue Devils' cause. They are relentless boosters, interviewers, or whatever role the school lets them play locally. I never resented their efforts to convert me! :)</p>