Duke Supplemental Essays (Continued)
Sometimes the best way to understand what a great Duke essay looks like is to look at an example. Below is a Why Duke essay example, followed by an explanation of what makes it stand out.
The word limit on this essay means that it's going to be very short, so you want to get the most out of those words. Start with an outline of your main points: why you want to go to Duke and how you'll make the most of those opportunities at the school and after graduation, then expand from there until you hit 250 words.
Just when this celebration of bacon begins to appear over-the-top, and readers are beginning to worry that Mariam swapped a food magazine piece with her college admissions essay, she links the succulent bacon metaphor with school: “To be sure, many others would also wax poetic about this lovely breakfast food. But precious few would share this same zeal for learning.” Though Mariam takes a risk in waxing poetic over bacon, she does so with carefully calculated dramatic effect that ultimately pays off. We are convinced that the “yearning to learn” is deeply engrained in our bacon-lover and early-riser author.
Duke Supplemental Essays (Continued)
As you answer this prompt, begin by identifying the aspects of yourself that make you unique. These could be personal qualities, experiences, cultural background, or anything that sets you apart from others. Consider qualities and traits you have not already mentioned in other sections of your application or Duke essays. How have these unique aspects influenced your values, beliefs, and outlook on life? Have they led to specific experiences or challenges that have shaped your character? Make sure to focus on only one trait or characteristic, rather than providing a list of your distinguishing qualities. Then, use a compelling personal anecdote to highlight how your experience of being different has influenced you. Did you have a positive experience? What were your challenges? Did you build resiliency or empathy? Reflect on this learning experience and what embracing differences means to you. Finally, describe how your individuality can contribute to Duke’s community and enrich its culture.
Mentions Specific Details: This is a short essay, but the writer still manages to mention multiple professors, programs, and subjects Duke has that he's interested in. That shows he did his research and definitely isn't using the same generic essay for each school he applies to.
As you answer this prompt, begin by identifying the aspects of yourself that make you unique. These could be personal qualities, experiences, cultural background, or anything that sets you apart from others. Consider qualities and traits you have not already mentioned in other sections of your application or Duke essays. How have these unique aspects influenced your values, beliefs, and outlook on life? Have they led to specific experiences or challenges that have shaped your character? Make sure to focus on only one trait or characteristic, rather than providing a list of your distinguishing qualities. Then, use a compelling personal anecdote to highlight how your experience of being different has influenced you. Did you have a positive experience? What were your challenges? Did you build resiliency or empathy? Reflect on this learning experience and what embracing differences means to you. Finally, describe how your individuality can contribute to Duke’s community and enrich its culture.
From your research, you now have multiple reasons as to why Duke is a great school for you. Choose one or two of them to write about in your essay. The more specific you can be when answering the "Why Duke" prompt, the better. Don't just say that Duke has great classes, smart professors, and an interesting student body. Most schools have that, and the people reading your essay will wonder if you're using an identical essay for every school you're applying to.
Duke Supplemental Essays (Continued)
Question 1: What is your sense of Duke as a university and a community, and why do you consider it a good match for you? If there’s something in particular about our offerings that attracts you, feel free to share that as well. (250 word limit)
Duke University Nondiscrimination Statement
Another great option to mention is , an academic program specifically designed for freshman students. Talk about how FOCUS would benefit your college experience and create a stronger sense of belonging—as students with the same “focus” all live in the same dorms. By showcasing your knowledge of these programs and how they align with your goals and interests, you can demonstrate to the Admissions Officers that you have thoroughly researched Duke and have a genuine passion for the university.
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Melissa adds, “Connect each example you provide to your own aspirations, both short and long-term.” Be specific about what you aim to achieve at Duke and how you plan to leverage your Duke education beyond graduation. Whether it is pursuing advanced research in your field, making a positive impact in the community, or entering a specific career path, the Admissions Officers want to see that you have thought carefully about your future and have a clear plan in mind. Remember to showcase your genuine passion for Duke, highlight your unique attributes and experiences, and demonstrate how you will contribute to the university’s vibrant and meaningful living and learning community.
Take Duke’s optional essay prompt, for example.
Why should you start your essays so early? You’ll want to have plenty of time to get your ideas in order. Whether you have zero ideas or way too many, do yourself a favor and give yourself time to brainstorm.
Duke University Application Essay, Duke University Admission Essay
Of course, above all else, you must answer the prompt. Accepted Duke essays can give you an idea of how to do this. For example, one of our “why Duke” essay examples talked about specific programs offered only at Duke. Successful Duke essay examples will show that you are interested in more than just Duke’s impressive stats and prestigious reputation.