Duke or Dartmouth

dukedad
Sat, 07 Apr 2012 15:20:58 +0000

Duke only offers spots in their 4 pre-orientation programs to less than 250 out of the 1700+ incoming freshman (about 15%).

Duke Student Affairs;

This was a big disappointment for our son when he entered as a freshman, hoping to get into the P-Waves or P-Wild programs, and did not get to go. There is basically a lottery that determines who gets to participate. Given the incredible funding that Duke offers in so many areas (Duke Engage, Focus programs, etc), it’s very disappointing that they have not moved to offer this to any incoming student that wants it. Especially given the overwhelmingly positive feedback that they get from all students who are lucky enough to get to participate. At Dartmouth, all freshmen are encouraged to participate in their “Trips” and 98% of students do so. It’s a great bonding experience, and start to college, for the entire freshman class.

Duke creates a great environment for its incoming freshman - I think that the way they have structured the housing - putting all freshman on East Campus, as well as the offering of Focus programs, makes for a unique and special experience for freshman. It’s very disappointing that they have not yet moved to allow for increased participation for any and all incoming freshman that want to participate in one of their pre-orientation programs.