<p>I’m commenting on this thread not for my own benefit, or to try to argue with the ill informed, but to perhaps give those actually making a decision perspective</p>
<p>I’m not going to comment on the academic quality of Duke, because I haven’t been there. But what I can say is that Brown’s is exceptional, and that those at Duke simply cannot claim the academics at Duke to be harder or better because they have not attended. Likewise, I cannot say that Duke’s are worse. </p>
<p>The same applies to the social scene. The quality of a social scene is not measured by how many parties, but the kind of parties and if they fit you. I used to attend Tulane, which was dominated by bar drinking, clubs, and preppy frat parties, the latter of which is not my scene whatsoever. Thus, I think Brown’s scene of funky bars, clubs, and house and co-ed frat parties far more enjoyable. I also find there to be a much better balance of academics and partying in people’s priorities and interests.</p>
<p>The claim that Brown’s open curriculum makes it easier, or that Duke’s requirements make it harder is utterly baseless. Brown’s open curriculum exists so that students can craft their own education and explore. I know neuroscience and art majors. I know english majors taking multivariable calculus. And the s/nc system is not a cop-out, it is to enable people to explore with a focus on learning and not on GPA. Same with the ability to drop. It’s a nice thing to have everyone in your class want to be there. </p>
<p>Conclusion? Both schools are great, but different. Don’t give me this crap about one being superior to the other because different does not mean lesser or bad, just, different. So pick the one that fits you.</p>