<p>There is nothing “quite unique” about your situation. You have low SAT scores and low grades from a mediocre school (I am unfamilar with the UK grading system, but 59% out of 80% does not sound good), and some high school-level work experience. Your “research record”, by which you refer to your work experience, will not get you “holistic review” of your app, unless, of course, publications in Nature or in Science are underway, in which case, definitely apply to top schools.</p>
<p>So, Duke is probably out. You may get into Columbia as a legacy, especially if your relatives were significant donors. But I think your most realistic choice would be SUNY.</p>