You will be challenged here, academically and socially. For better or worse, the negatives of the school (importance of Greek life, effortless perfection, hook-up culture, etc.) will only make you a stronger person. On the academic side, upper level classes are small and discussion is encouraged. If you make the effort, you will get to know professors who are the leaders in their field of thought.

Durham is not quite a college city, but it is getting there. It can feel small sometimes, but upperclassmen usually manage to find time to explore, while freshman/sophomores are still entrenched in the university culture.

I recommend coming in with all the confidence you had in high school, developing some humility along the way, but never losing that confidence. Many students lose self-esteem being surrounded by individuals who are as good or better than they are, and it can take a real hit on self-confidence, especially as these students are coming out of high school as the best of the best.

Yes

Campus is great, but Durham's a little unsafe at night. On campus housing for freshmen and sophomores, campus apartments for upperclassmen. Variety of dining places. Plenty of community volunteering opportunities. Overall, I'm very happy with Duke.

Unique application questions, optional interview with alumni, early decision and regular decision, common application, financial aid.

3

2011