<p>I stupidly chose to submit my Duke application without completing the "optional" Why Duke essay. I am just interested in hearing whether anyone else also did this and how they have fared (Received a likely, granted admission, etc.). Are my acceptance chances dramatically lessened?</p>
<p>I got in with out writing a Why Duke. It doesn’t really matter if they think you’re a strong applicant. It can help a little I guess but it can never hurt.</p>
<p>I felt the same way you did, but received a likely without the optional essay</p>
<p>I got one and did the optional essay.</p>
<p>I received a likely. The only essay I wrote for Duke was why I wanted to apply to Pratt.</p>
<p>Why Pratt is required; why Duke is optional. I know plenty of kids who got into Trinity without why Duke. No worries.</p>