<p>Our high school guidance counselor called Duke, and their admission committee told him that. He was on sports teams (was captain of one) and also did FBLA (won awards), Quiz Bowl, got stellar grades and scores (800 Chem SAT II, 5 on AP Chem – guess his major), etc. Apparently they wanted someone who was exceptional at one thing and put everything they had into that, so that the “class” would end up “well rounded” that way. But that doesn’t excuse any poor grades, of course. It’s absolutely ridiculous and contradictory. What can I say. I think going to a public research university is better for Chemistry anyways, and he’s in a fraternity so he’s having a good time.</p>