Duke University

“Being in-state helps some, but you still have toNov 03 2005History/Histories (art history/etc.)
Being in-state helps some, but you still have to make very good grades and be very active in the community. Duke likes outgoing people that want to make a difference in the world around them. Don't sweat the admission essays; just be yourself and be creative.
ACT: 32 SAT: 1480 Male

“Take part in one or two unusual extracurricular activitiesAug 20 2005Engineering Department
Take part in one or two unusual extracurricular activities (to distinguish you from the hordes of other applicants) and become really good at them. In my case, I learned (i) how to play a carillon (similar to the one in Duke Chapel) and (ii) the art of knife throwing.

I suspect that grades, test scores, etc... will never be enough to make you "stand out" in the eyes of the admissions officers. Catch their attention by demonstrating that you can add something genuinely interesting to the Duke community.
SAT: 1550 Female

“I had about a 4Aug 12 2005Political Science
I had about a 4.0 gpa, 1400 sats, took about 7 AP Classes in high school (would have taken more if HS allowed), participated in many extracurricular activities (coummunity service, honor socities, political clubs, field hockey, crew, cross country, etc). Admissions at Duke likes a very well-rounded individual with a great GPA and board scores. If your only activity in high school is studing, look elsewhere, you probably wont get in. Duke can attract many different students, and just about everyone is brilliant that comes (yes, even the athletes) so you have to do more than prove you are a smart kid, you need to prove your a worthy individual and one who likes to have a good time doing other activities.
SAT: 1400 Female

“To get in: Have money and family connections getJun 13 2005History/Histories (art history/etc.)
To get in: Have money and family connections; get rejected from Yale/Harvard/Columbia; show that you've never had to work a day in your life.
SAT: 700 Male

“Well, going to TIP at Duke University is aFeb 25 2005Computer Science
Well, going to TIP at Duke University is a definite benefit. At the worst, you'll just like the school even more. My SAT score was pretty high (1550+) and my GPA was a 4.0. However, as numerous people have similar stats and are rejected, it seems one must also have some sort of flair. Just have a passion for something and good credentials and you'll be a Blue-Devil soon.
SAT: 1570 Male