<p>okay, so i have two major questions regarding the "why duke" essay:
1. how long really is "one or two paragraphs?" at this point, mine's a page single-spaced (328 words), and i really don't know how to cut it, but it seems a little long....
and 2. does it have to be legit flowy and pretty? i'm not saying i just list a bunch of reasons, but i don't have an official opening and closing...is that okay? is anyone with a bunch of free time willing to read it over??</p>
<p><a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/duke-university/815338-why-duke-essay-should-help-if-your-applying.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/duke-university/815338-why-duke-essay-should-help-if-your-applying.html</a>
If you search the boards, there’s many who have asked the same questions, although I’m guilty of doing this too. Haha anyways, the link above should give you examples of people who got admitted to Duke.
I’ve just applied and is currently waiting for their decision so don’t take my word for it, but I’ve heard that more than 2 paragraphs is ok, as long as the content is good. Mine was a page as well single spaced- 561 words to be exact. You should be fine. I didn’t include an opening or closing either, but then again, I didn’t write it in an “official” essay form. If your essay is logical and flows well and makes sense without an introduction or conclusion, don’t add them.
“Brevity is the soul of wit.”</p>
<p>Write it like you would any short expository writing assignment. It’s not intended to be a personal statement so don’t go all out. Simply answer the question in the most concise, direct, and impactful way you can. If you have a bunch of reasons, pick the best one or two and explain it as best you can. Think of it as a way to make the adcoms see things your way.</p>