Duke University

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Duke students are generally happy with their
experience, but it’s not impossible to find students who imagine they’d be happier somewhere else. Academics, friendships, and even the beauty of the campus make this school an easy choice for many. However, a lot of students are concerned about the top-down social programming they see coming from Duke’s administration. Rather than starting their own initiatives, Duke undergrads often seem apathetic, and the administration, frantic to see things not only progressing, but progressing in the direction they see fit, tries to shove social programming down students’ throats. Students and administration are still trying to find the balance of power and a unified direction. University politics have become a big concern, but the friendships students have forged seem to make up for whatever shortcomings they might perceive.

Duke is one of the top academic schools in the country, but that’s not its hook. You’ll never see Harvard’s basketball team in the Final Four, or Yale students camping out for a week to get sports tickets. Obviously, basketball shouldn’t be your major concern in choosing a college, but it is often used as an example because it typifies the difference between Duke and so many of the other top colleges. There’s an emphasis on friends, social life, and fun here, and it’s important to consider these aspects as well as academics when you’re choosing a school. Remember, you’re choosing the place you’ll spend the next four years of your life, not just the name that shows up on your degree at the end.

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gibberellingirl Duke '12 Electrical and Electronics Engineering Aug 21, 2010

I Like It Here. Most of the Time. B+ I love Duke for a few reasons. I feel like my professors are immensely helpful and they really do care about what they are teaching, which is what I am here for first and foremost. I don't like that Duke is in such a small city with little to do. Since I don't have a car, I often feel isolated. The other draw of Duke is the people--I really like my friends. They are not crazily ambitious or oppressively competitive, but there are some people here who make themselves stressed and busy just for the sake of being busy. 12345 Report Overall Experience

gibberellingirl Duke '12 Electrical and Electronics Engineering Aug 21, 2010

Really, Skip the Clubs D- There is one really trashy club close by, it is called Shooters. Learn to avoid it. Somebody puked on my friend's legs while we were there, and there was a woman doing a headstand in the metal cage that hangs from the ceiling. Frat parties are not much better with the mystery pink punch and light beer. Leaves much to be desired. 12345 Report Nightlife

gibberellingirl Duke '12 Electrical and Electronics Engineering Aug 21, 2010

Small Town Feel C+ Durham is definitely a small city. If you love the nature, this is the place to be. Otherwise you'll be surrounded with green and nothing else. Duke is one of the most active spots with concerts and festivals. Other than downtown Durham and the Tobacco District, there is really nothing much to see. 12345 Report Local Atmosphere

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