<p>In curved classes (science/math), what if the whole class consistently scores within 0-5% of each other's scores. Will the teacher still find a way to divide the class into a B-/C+ average? (hypothetically speaking)</p>
<p>I am too nervous about the curves at Duke and I feel that because my SAT scores/ GPA are average of an acceptee, i will have a B-/C+ gpa @ Duke</p>
<p>One of the reasons I want to attend my state public schools is because I might consistently end up on the upper half of the curve. Duke kids are just too competitive!</p>
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<p>This probably will not happen. Test averages are usually absurdly low, in order to ensure that the grades are spread out evenly. However, I would envision that the professor would probably not screw everyone over and simply not curve that class (this happened for one of my exams this semester). This also depends on the seniority of the professor and what department he or she is working for (math, for example, is known for having strict curves). </p>
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<p>As long as you perform hard and study, you should do fine. I mean, depending on your major, natural talent is probably only a small fraction of the ingredients necessary for success.</p>
<p>College is like a clean slate. It’s interesting: scholarships kids aren’t always the smartest. Kids with lower SATs sometimes get better grades than AB or Robertson scholars. It’s all about how much you work and how hard you try. :)</p>
<p>Your grades will depend on. Only intro science/math/some engineering classes have B- curves (almost never C+). The harshest of such classes have 16% A’s, the easiest 30-40%.</p>
<p>1) High school preparation (You’ll realize how prepared/unprepared you are for college once you get here)
2) Work ethic
3) Natural talent/intelligence</p>
<p>It is difficult to do well at Duke, but it is also extremely difficult to fail C/D/F’s</p>