I recently submitted my Duke application, putting Biomed engineering as my first choice and biology as my second choice. After reading all about how numbers oriented Pratt can be, I’m a little nervous about even standing a chance because of my low ACT math score…however, if everything else about my application is fairly strong and well rounded (esp with a major emphasis on science ec’s/AP classes/subject tests), is it possible that I could be considered for entry into the biology major (as part of Trinity), if I’m not a good enough applicant for Pratt?
I guess I’m just wondering if Duke pays much attention to the second choice majors that we are required to include???
Duke doesn’t admit based on major at all as you don’t have to choose your major until the end of sophomore year. So, an applicant with an intended interest in biology is not evaluated differently than one interested in economics theoretically, although certainly extra-curricular activities and interests should align to desired majors somewhat. However, Duke DOES admit based on school (Pratt vs. Trinity) as those are separate applicant pools and processes. So, if you applied to Pratt (regardless of the intended major within Pratt), they’ll evaluate you based on your Pratt enrollment, not Trinity (which is where the biology dept resides).
I wouldn’t second guess yourself, it’s done at this point. If your interest aligns with BME at the moment, you probably catered your application that way and put your best foot forward. It’s out of your hands. But, yes, obviously an engineering school would emphasize math prowess more than an Arts & Sciences school. Most students accepted to Pratt do have near perfect math scores on standardized tests, but it’s certainly not a requirement if you’ve demonstrated capabilities through coursework and other mechanisms.