As part of your online application, you must upload a Life Experiences Statement. The statement should be no more than one (1) page single spaced.
How This Differs from the Statement of Purpose
While the Statement of Purpose focuses on your academic and professional goals, research interests, and reasons for applying to Duke, the Life Experiences Statement is designed to provide insight into your personal background and the unique experiences that have shaped who you are. This statement should highlight how your life experiences contribute to your identity, how you plan to leverage them within Duke’s academic community, and expand on any perspectives and experiences outlined in our mission statement.
Life Experiences Statement Prompt
Please provide a brief statement that highlights the unique life experiences that have shaped your personal and professional identity and prepared you for graduate work. Share how these experiences have influenced your perspectives and your vision for leveraging them to contribute to Duke’s academic community.
Tips for Writing Your Life Experiences Statement
- Be Authentic: Share genuine experiences that have significantly impacted your life.
- Reflection: Discuss how your background and experiences contribute to a welcoming and inclusive community.
- Resilience: Highlight any challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve overcome them.
- Engage with the Community: Explain how you plan to engage with and contribute to Duke’s academic and social community.
How to Submit
Upload the Life Experiences Statement on the "Additional Experiences" page of the online application.