What's the Duke University Student Body Like?

Hello guys, I've been looking into Duke University but I wanted to know what the actual student culture is like. How would you describe the student body in terms of diversity, general attitudes, and extracurricular involvement? Thank you in advance, just a nervous junior trying to find her fit.

Hello there! I can give you a general picture based on what I know about Duke University.

Starting with diversity, Duke is quite nationally and globally diverse. The undergraduate population includes students from all 50 states and over 90 countries. So, you will certainly meet people with different cultural backgrounds and perspectives.

As for general attitudes, the student body at Duke is often considered competitive but cooperative. The students here are serious and highly motivated about their academic and professional goals. There is definitely a strong spirit of intellectual curiosity on campus, and students are not shy about engaging deeply in class discussions or pursuing research with professors.

However, it's not all work and no play. Duke students definitely know how to unwind and have fun when they need to. For instance, the campus is known for its high energy level during basketball season -- "Cameron Crazies" is the term you'll often hear in reference to Duke's die-hard basketball fans.

When it comes to extracurricular involvement, many students at Duke are heavily involved. Whether it's participating in an academic club, serving in student government, or playing a role in community service, you'll find a lot of opportunities to pursue your interests or discover new ones. In fact, Duke offers over 400 student organizations and 37 varsity sports.

But remember, it's important to visit campuses (in-person or online) if possible, and reach out to current students to get a feel for the school's culture. What works well for one person might not for another. Best of luck as you continue your exploration!