<p>Again, just to reiterate other people’s posts, it’s all personal preference and there isn’t a clear correct choice. They’re all great. I personally chose Duke over Penn and Columbia. I liked the athletics aspect of Duke and felt that the student body was more united because they felt more pride in their school (largely due to the success of the basketball team). Also, Columbia I felt is more independent thinkers who like to do things more on their own and didn’t have as “homey” of a feel. To be honest, as a junior in high school visiting the campus, living in New York City also intimidated me a bit, although by now, I’d be cool with it. But the students seemed very different and Duke felt more comfortable to me. Other people would absolutely love the opportunity to live in NYC in college and would come to a different conclusion than me.</p>
<p>In my opinion, Duke’s social life is most similar to Dartmouth and Penn. I think Penn is the #1 private school applied to by Duke students (this is just from personal experience, not any conclusive study) - I know TONS of people who applied to both, and I think they attract similar people. Penn was as close #2 for me. :)</p>