<p>I am currently a senior applying ED to Duke. I have all A's, but a B in multivariable calculus and a C in Quantum Physics (but almost no one gets above a C in this class realistically, it is the hardest at my school). For reference, I go to one of the nation's top high schools, with very rigorous courses. I am usually an A student, and have only gotten 3 B's before this with one of them being a B+. However, I have extenuating circumstances.</p>
<p>During first quarter, my dad lost his job, my best friend was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, my grandfather was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer, and I was still working at my roughly 25 hour a week UChicago internship remotely...all while juggling school. Obviously, this all had an effect on my grades. Should I send a brief letter of additional information explaining this, or will it just look like I'm making excuses? How much will this hurt my chances?</p>