<p>I went to the “paper” Student Supplement form on the Duke website, as advised, and it clearly states ONE - TWO paragraphs. I cut and past the directions below. What about “one or two” don’t you guys understand and why rationalize three paragraphs (oh, they won’t tear off the last one!) when the instructions say one to two? Next you guys will be justifying 1,000 word essays to Yale when Yale explicity says they only want around 500 words and make a big deal of it on their admissions web site. I guess because Duke doesn’t pound the table about “one to two paragraphs” you guys all go and give yourself a pass? Read directions, people.</p>
<p>FROM THE DUKE STUDENT SUPPLEMENT:</p>
<ol>
<li>The following questions are optional—and, yes, they truly are optional! If you choose to answer them, please use the additional page provided at the end of this form unless noted otherwise. If you choose not to answer them, your chance of admission will not be affected.
a. (For Arts & Sciences App licants Only) If you are applying to Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, please discuss why you consider Duke a good match for you. Is there something in particular at Duke that attracts you? Please limit your response to one or two paragraphs.</li>
</ol>
<p>b. If you have participated in any significant research activity outside of school, please provide a brief description and limit your response to one or two paragraphs.</p>