<p>I'm currently working on my FOCUS program app, and I've got a few questions. This program was really one of the things that made Duke stand out for me, so obviously I'm really interested in it. If anyone else is/has participated in the program, did you enjoy it? How was the workload? Also, my number one choice cluster is the Power of Language. I know they said that most applicants get into their first or second choice cluster, and I wouldn't be super-disappointed if I had to take another one, but this is really my first choice. Do you think it's likely that I'll get into it? And if you've taken it, how is the course itself? Thanks in advance!</p>
<p>FOCUS is a fabulous program. It really lived up to expectations. Faculty-student interaction was awesome and really reinforced my interests. At the time, the course load felt manageable but challenging. Looking back, it really helped me acclimate to college because my spring semester classes actually feel easier. You have a very good chance of getting into your first choice, especially if you reach out to the professors and email them beforehand indicating your interests and asking genuine questions. I was not in that particular cluster, so I can’t tell you about that.</p>