What you have to realize is that there are 10 times more individuals that equally want to go to DUKE who have “A” averages and near perfect SAT scores. When the pool of candidates is so incredibly full, it makes the selection process extremely competitive and those that are chosen are the cream of the crop.

That does not mean that there is not hope. My suggestion to you is to minimize some of the activities. Do a few – but do them well. Make sure that you have leadership roles in those organizations. This will also give you more time to concentrate more heavily on your studies. Make it a goal to bring that “B” average up to an A-. And don’t count on using those senior year grades because first round applications are due in the Fall of your Senior year when most grades have not been posted.

I also suggest looking at other schools. There are great schools out there that would love to have you. Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket. This will minimize your disappointment.

Good luck to you and work hard!

The second thing you should do is keep up your grades in school. You may have a lower GPA, but that’s okay. As long as you show you work hard, you should do fine. If you study harder, and get a few more A’s than B’s, your GPA will go up. Taking AP/Honors classes helps a lot too, considering they are weighted, and can contribute a larger boast to your GPA IF you get A’s and B’s

Third, Study for you SAT’s.. The sooner you study for them, the sooner you can take one. Contrary to what people say, it’s alright to take you SAT’s your Junior year. Then you can know Where you stand, how much you need to study, You’ll be familiar with the test, and most importantly, STILL have plenty of time to take it your Senior year. Try some SAT study guide, from either Kaplan’s or Princeton Review.

Fourth, If you really like soccor, stick to it. You can possibly get a Sports Scholarship for Duke, if you make their team. But make sure that soccer does not hinder your grades. If you can’t take it, it’s better to lose soccer, than to lose the grades.

And lastly, I find you a good web page on the Dukes website that shows what they are looking for in a student.

http://www.admissions.duke.edu/faq/index.asp?iQuestionID=515%20&iCategoryID=1

http://www.admissions.duke.edu/jump/applying/who_2010profile.asp

Good luck!