Recruitment

Duke Presidential Ambassadors is a tight-knit organization that allows members to become intimately involved with the University and its administration. Participation in DPA facilitates substantial personal and professional growth, as well as provides the opportunity to serve Duke University.

We invite first- and second-year undergraduates to apply.

Although our recruitment process formally begins in the spring, we invite you to learn more about DPA this fall. Join our Listserv for all recruitment updates!

Fall Information Sessions

Attending an info session or coffee chat is strongly encouraged, but not mandatory to apply.

Info Session Dates

As part of recruitment, we encourage our applicants to attend either an info session or an informal coffee chat with a current member of DPA.

Tuesday, October 24th 7:00pm. Social Sciences 139

Monday, November 13th 7:00pm. White Lecture Hall 107

The session should last no longer than thirty minutes and will include important information regarding recruitment and Q&A with current DPAs.

Coffee Chats

Coffee chats take place from October 25th through November 12th. Join our Listserv for the coffee chat sign-up sheet: https://bit.ly/2023DPAinterest

Spring Recruitment Process

The application process consists of a written application and Duke history test, after which we invite candidates to a first round interview. Candidates are then invited to a final round of interviews before we make final selections.

January 16

Written application opens.

January 22

6:30 pm, Old Chemistry 116.

Information session with President Price.

February 11

Written application due.

February 15

Duke History Exam*

Session 1 -- 6:30-7:00 pm, Social Sciences 139 (West Campus)

Session 2 -- 8:00-9:00 pm, White Lecture Hall 107 (East Campus)

February 25

First-round interviews held. Invitation only.

February 29

Final interviews held. Invitation only.

*

If you have a legitimate conflict or reason for requesting a virtual option for the history exam, please contact Lily Baglio as soon as possible, to schedule a make-up testing time/date.

Application Materials

Written Application

History Test Study Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a perfect score on the history test to get an interview?

No! We do not expect a perfect score -- rough estimates for numbers are fine, focus on highlighted dates and memorizing key administrators. We are looking for a good-faith effort at learning the material and thoughtful short answers that demonstrate reflection on the University and its future.

What is DPA looking for from an ideal candidate?

Duke Presidential Ambassadors are passionate about Duke and its path forward. They are considerate and inclusive of the diverse backgrounds of the visitors and stakeholders they interact with, as well as reliable and dedicated during events and tours. An ideal Presidential Ambassador is a compelling story-teller; we are looking for personable individuals who can share their Duke experience in a genuine manner.

How are interviews structured?

First round interviews are conducted by two current members of DPA. Final interviews are held by a senior Duke administrator and a senior/executive member of Duke Presidential Ambassadors.