Duke University School of Medicine
Durham, NC
2026 Secondary Essay Prompts
Essay 3
Question 3: Describe a situation in which you chose to advocate for someone who was different from you or for a cause or idea that was different from yours. Define your view of advocacy. What risks, if any, might be associated with your choice to be an advocate? (400 words)
Essay 4
Question 4: Not achieving a goal or one’s desire can sometimes be disheartening. What have you learned/gained from your setbacks and disappointments and how does this translate to your current way of thinking? (400 words)
Essay 5
Question 5: What do you value most as a leader and as a contributor? What attributes do you possess as a leader and as a team member and how do you apply them on a daily basis? (400 words)
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General Secondary Tips
- Submit within 2 weeks: Turn around your secondary quickly to show genuine interest
- Research the school: Reference specific programs, values, or opportunities at Duke University School of Medicine
- Be specific: Use concrete examples and stories, not vague generalizations
- Proofread carefully: Typos and grammatical errors signal carelessness
- Respect word limits: Admissions committees read hundreds of essays—be concise
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Essay Writing Resources
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