<p>I was just wondering if there's a particular aspect that Duke seems to favor in a college application. I know they look at the entire character of a candidate but I was wondering what has worked for others. For example, this year I'm conducting my own scientific research at a lab instead of taking a conventional class. Would Duke be impressed by that? If there was something special about your application which may have helped you get in, I'd love to get some feedback.</p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>That’s an interesting question, but I think it might be missing the point. For a school like MIT, sure, there’s some more specific areas that they might be looking for. However, a school like Duke is trying to find a good balance of a lot of different people with different interests who can contribute a variety of things to the campus. So, I think that it’s great that you’re doing something special – that makes you stand out in their eyes. But not necessarily because of the specific nature of what you’re doing.</p>
<p>Thanks for the reply. I understand what you’re saying: that Duke appreciates a well-rounded candidate that’s passionate about what they do. I was just thinking that since Duke is very involved in science research, they would take into account previous experience in science research as a major “plus.”</p>
<p>Hi nvtcollege,</p>
<p>I’m definitely not an expert on what admission officers look for in a potential admit. Even so, this year, Duke accepted me as an A.B. Scholar, so I guess they liked me. My whole “spin” on my application was scientific research and how much I love discovering new things in science…On the other hand, a lot of school awards I’ve received have been for history/english. Overall, I think Duke really does pride itself in science/research, but to be an overall well-rounded applicant is probably an extra plus. :)</p>
<p>Essays, essays, essays. Straight from the horse’s mouth.</p>
<p>Hey 
So, I don’t know how consistent it is - but I’m quite positive I got in because of the balance between academics, tons of extracurriculars, and leadership. Also, definitely essays - the card that came with my admission packet specifically mentioned my essays. :)</p>