<p>So, my Why Duke essay is, to say the least, unorthodox (big shock).</p>
<p>I've found that most people tend to focus on:
1) the fact that they did their research
2) specific programs they want to be involved with
3) generic reasons? </p>
<p>I wrote in the future tense about me as a student at Duke, about an activity I'm quite passionate about. I also incorporated the fact that I would love to go to a school with students who are excited about college sports. My essay does not address many specific academic programs or anything of the sort. I'm somewhat worried that this may not be considered normal and may affect my chances of acceptance. </p>
<p>P.S. My common application essay was about the same activity, except local to me.</p>
<p>Also, I included a portion of a song often sung at Duke games. Is this too outlandish/corny?</p>
<p>Yes, I understand that the essays are optional. I simply feel that writing a supplement (why Duke) essay would improve my chances. I also fail to see how your post was useful in any way.</p>
<p>You’re right. My post wasn’t helpful at all. I was being a bit of a jerk. Sorry.</p>
<p>Now a more serious answer. Duke stresses, both on their website and in their info sessions, that the optional essays are truly optional, and they ask you to limit your optional essay to one to three paragraphs about “why you consider Duke a good match for you”. Giiven the limited space they are offering you, I think a creative future tense piece is ill-advised. I think something straightforward and direct would be more appropriate. Writing about the activity you are passionate about would make sense if it relates to Duke in a way that is specific and unique to Duke. I’d be more hesitant to write about the spectator sports angle.</p>
<p>I had the same thought process as you- most people sound extremely cliche when they talk about Duke’s academic programs that will expand their intellectual horizons or foster their curiosity or something like that. I mentioned Duke’s excellent academics but I said that it was the social atmosphere that clinched it for me. You can talk about the sports, but don’t sound dismissive of the academic offerings.</p>