Duke University is well-regarded for its dynamic academic environment and inclusive community. This year, they have introduced new essay prompts that offer applicants a chance to share their unique perspectives and experiences. In this guide, we'll break down each prompt and provide tips on how to approach them. Don't forget to leverage Sups AI, a comprehensive platform that helps you brainstorm and refine your essays with personalized feedback and insights from current students.
Understanding Duke's Supplemental Essay Prompts
Primary Prompt (250 word limit):
"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."
Optional Prompts (choose a maximum of two, 250 words each):
Perspective response: We believe a wide range of viewpoints, beliefs, and lived experiences are essential to making Duke a vibrant and meaningful living and learning community. Feel free to share with us anything in this context that might help us better understand you and what you might bring to our community.
Intellectual experience: Tell us about an experience in the past year or two that reflects your imagination, creativity, or intellect.
Beliefs & values: We believe there is benefit in sharing and sometimes questioning our beliefs or values; who do you agree with on the big important things, or who do you have your most interesting disagreements with? What are you agreeing or disagreeing about?
Orientation, identity, expression: Duke’s commitment to inclusion and belonging includes sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. Feel free to share with us more about how your identity in this context has meaning for you as an individual or as a member of a community.
Being different: We recognize that not fully “fitting in” a community or place can sometimes be difficult. Duke values the effort, resilience, and independence that may require. Feel free to share with us circumstances where something about you is different and how that’s influenced your experiences or identity.
Approaching the Primary Prompt
This prompt is an opportunity to demonstrate why Duke is a great fit for you. Research Duke’s academic programs, campus culture, and extracurricular offerings. Discuss how these aspects align with your interests and goals.
When writing your response, be specific. Mention distinct programs, courses, or clubs that appeal to you. For instance, if you’re interested in biomedical engineering, you might highlight Duke’s renowned Pratt School of Engineering. Describe how being part of such a community will nurture your aspirations.
Get personalized assistance on refining this essay by using Sups AI. With tailored feedback and examples from admitted students, Sups AI will help you craft a compelling narrative.
Tips for the Optional Prompts
1. Perspective Response
Duke values diverse viewpoints and experiences. Share a unique perspective or experience that you will bring to their community. Whether it’s a cultural background, a challenging life experience, or a unique viewpoint, explain how it has shaped you and how you’ll contribute to Duke's community.
2. Intellectual Experience
Highlight a moment that showcases your creativity, imagination, or intellectual curiosity. Perhaps it's a science project, a research paper, or an art piece. Describe the impact this experience had on you and how it aligns with Duke’s emphasis on academic excellence.
3. Beliefs & Values
Discuss how your core beliefs shape your interactions and decisions. Share an instance where a meaningful conversation or disagreement led to growth or a shift in perspective. Reflect on what this process taught you.
4. Orientation, Identity, Expression
Duke’s commitment to inclusion is central. Explain how your sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression has influenced your life. Elaborate on how Duke’s inclusive environment will support your personal and academic journey.
5. Being Different
Share a story about a time you felt different from others. How did you navigate this experience? What did it teach you about resilience and independence? Duke values these qualities, so be honest and insightful in your response.
Don't overlook the value of external feedback. Use Sups AI to refine your responses. With insights from current Duke students, you can ensure your essays truly reflect your unique experiences and potential contributions.
Final Thoughts
The Duke supplemental essays are your chance to convey your unique fit with the university. Take advantage of resources like Sups AI to get personalized feedback and connect with students who’ve successfully navigated the process. Good luck!
