Dear Charlotte Simmons

The primary problem behind every single one of your many, many complaints seems to be that Duke has a bustling student life. And that brings us to ask: Is Duke really the right place for you? Maybe at another school, you could happily avoid any interaction with your fellow students, steer clear of getting pestered for philanthropic efforts and never hear about any student performances on campus.  

In reality, it seems that such passionate advertising on behalf of student groups is actually a sign of a healthy, vigorous and diverse student life. That is to say, Duke students have varied interests and passions that they care about, are heavily involved with their community and enthusiastically want to contribute to the world in a meaningful way. Honestly, shouldn’t having such an active and robust student life be something of which we are proud? Furthermore, since you have showed your displeasure for Tailgate and greek life in the past, shouldn’t you be happy that there are students who are planning other on-campus events and activities that have a positive impact on our community?

We guarantee you: student life of this sort is not just unique to Duke. Where there are bright and motivated students, you will find a student life like ours. It is a quality of a school that should be praised, not condemned.  

We just walked by the Plaza. Every single swinging loveseat was free. Go sit out there in the rain and the cold by yourself—we can’t wait for all the complaints you’ll have about the weather.

Danni Lin Trinity ’12 Michelle Lu Trinity ’12

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