<p>My dad attended duke and donates money annually. I'm thinking of applying early decision. I'm also african american and an All-American swimmer. What are my chances? Am I more likely to get accepted as a legacy?</p>
<p>Yes. Your best shot is applying early as a legacy</p>
<p>collegehound: I offer a few points for your consideration:
- spuding’s answer is correct.
- Both areas – ED and legacy – have been discussed FREQUENTLY in this forum. Perhaps it would be wise to “do your homework” and to review carefully already extant information, before requesting participants to reiterate.
- You should be aware that all “legacies” are not equal, nor should they be. The children/grandchildren/stepchildren of Duke alumni who have made continuous and substantial contributions to the University’s progress – financial, of course, but also (and likely more important) leadership, governance, service, and so forth – will probably receive a far more significant legacy-advantage than the children of alumni whose parents have had only limited association with Duke since their graduation(s).
- Finally and critically, ED and legacy cannot overcome deficiencies in the ESSENTIAL application elements: GPA, standardized test scores, essays, recommendations, being challenged by – and excelling at – the most intellectually demanding preparatory curriculum, etc.</p>
<p>Good luck. </p>
<p>@collegehound4578 : are you being recruited by Duke Swimming & Diving coach? If so then you probably have a good shot (as long as your GPA and SATs are good).</p>
<p>If you are being recruited however, then your dad’s legacy status is largely irrelevant. The coaches get to pick whoever they want based upon athletic ability and academic abililty.</p>
<p>If you are NOT being recruited then applying ED is the best way to take advantage of your legacy status. Tell your Dad to become more involved in the DAA.</p>
<p>To make up for a 1950 on the SAT and a 3.67 GPA, you better have very strong hooks. ED Legacy (with donations) + varsity athlete at Duke + URM is a good triple threat, though…</p>
<p>@bluedog: How do you know the applicant’s SAT scores? If 1950 is indeed the score, then I agree it might be a bit low for Duke.</p>
<p>^She indicated it in a previous post. </p>
<p>I’m sorry that TopTier was so rude to you OP. Just ignore the out of bounds comment that he cited at #2. He has a habit of doing that, and don’t think that that tude is reflected in all of Duke’s alum. Go for it 
Anything can happen.</p>