anything TUFTS

College Search & Selection
1

<p>Hey Everyone,</p>

<p>As a current Tufts student (entering Junior), I thought I would post on this forum and let anyone who has any questions about Tufts ask away. I can definitely remember the admissions process chaos quite vividly, and I would be more than happy to help prospective students/parents. I also have some pictures that I took of the campus last May, which you can find at:
<a href="http://community.webshots.com/album/140854017KuVlAl%5B/url%5D"&gt;http://community.webshots.com/album/140854017KuVlAl&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p>

<p>***Also- check out my e-pinions review of Tufts, which covers a lot of aspects of the school. You can find that opinion at:
<a href="http://www.epinions.com/content_124965129860%5B/url%5D"&gt;http://www.epinions.com/content_124965129860&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p>

<p>I absolutely love Tufts and could not be happier. I look forward to answering your questions, and feel free to ask about anything!</p>

2

<p>you should also post this on the tufts forum... that e-opinion is very detailed and helpful, thanks!</p>

3

<p>thanks rage- I'll post it on the Tufts forum now.</p>

4

<p>hi i have several questions about tufts.
* How are the history, english, german, and music departments?
* How easy is it to get involved, especially with music and social action?
* How is financial aid?
* If there is a typical/stereotypical student, what are they like?
* What is the atmosphere like?
* Is there a lot of partying/Greek stuff and is it easy to just hang out and go into Boston?
Thanks!</p>

5

<p>Hi estargrl,</p>

<p>First of all, if you have not already, I would recommend reading my e-pinions review, as many of the questions you asked are covered in there.</p>

<p>As far as the majors, I am a psychology major so I cannot give an extremely detailed answer for those other majors, but I have friends who are pursuing each of those majors and they seem to be challenged and impressed with the faculty, research, etc. As far as the music department, I know that Tufts has a very good relationship with the New England Conservatory of Music, resulting in a unique joint degree program. We are also in the process of constructing a new state of the art music facility, which will be finished by fall of 2006. To see more information about the music department and the new music building, you can go to:</p>

<p><a href="http://www.tufts.edu/as/music/%5B/url%5D"&gt;http://www.tufts.edu/as/music/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p>

<p>If you still would like to know more information about these majors, I can certainly e-mail you the addresses of my friends, who would be more than happy to answer your questions more specifically. </p>

<p>It is EXTREMELY easy to get involved with anything on campus. In fact, if you have 15 people who want to start a new organization and it is approved by the Senate, they will give you money to pursue your interest. The Tufts Orchestra is really strong here, and a capella is HUGE. Tufts' a capella groups are consistently featured in the annual BOCA album (best of college a capella), and the concerts always get a huge turnout. Check out some of the performance ensembles here (you can even hear clips of some of their music):
<a href="http://ase.tufts.edu/stu-org/ensembles.html%5B/url%5D"&gt;http://ase.tufts.edu/stu-org/ensembles.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p>

<p>Social Action is also huge, as Tufts students are very passionate about a huge range of issues. Another program that is unique to Tufts worth noting is the University College program of active citizenship and public service. Funded by the Omidyars, Tufts graduates who founded eBay, this program promotes service learning and outreach to Tufts host communities, allowing students to make a huge impact in an issue of interest. Go to <a href="http://uccps.tufts.edu/%5B/url%5D"&gt;http://uccps.tufts.edu/&lt;/a> to learn more. </p>

<p>Financial Aid- From what I gather Tufts does a very good job of matching the needs to students. They offer a variety of loans and work study options, and in the next couple of years they are hoping to reach their goal of maintaining need-blind admissions. For more info, check out this link: <a href="http://finaid.tufts.edu/freshman.htm%5B/url%5D"&gt;http://finaid.tufts.edu/freshman.htm&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p>

<p>As far as a typical Tufts students, I address this in my e-pinions review, but I want to emphasize the fact that Tufts has an extremely diverse student body, not only as far as geographic location, and religion, but also in academic and extracurricular interests. However, I can definitely conclude that the average Tufts student is intelligent, nice (I swear I have yet to meet a genuinely mean person here), and extremely passionate and aware of global issues. International relations is huge, and there is definitely a large global feel among the student bode/academic atmosphere. Check out my e-pinions review for a more detailed response though. I also mention more about the atmosphere and social life on epinions as well. </p>

<p>I hope that helps, and let me know if you have any other questions!</p>

6

<p>goumbos, awesome review. I always knew I was applying to Tufts, but now I'm pumped! Is the bitter Ivy league Reject stereotype just a myth? I think it probably is, but there's that one person on epinions who gave it 1 start and said that...</p>

7

<p>Hey David,</p>

<p>Glad I could help. To be honest, the ivy-league reject thing is, indeed, nothing other than a myth. Many of my friends and I joke about the fact that so many people at Tufts chose it over an ivy-league school, or one of equal caliber. In fact, I know a ton of students who have it the other way around- people who even applied early to Tufts, were rejected, and then accepted at other ivy's/top schools. Once you arrive on the hill it is hard to not absolutely love all that Tufts has to offer. Everyone I know is completely happy and could care less about the ivy-league reject stereotype since it's so outdated....</p>

8

<p>To clarify on the bitter ivy rejects idea, it really isn't as bad as how the stereotypes go. It basically has as much validity as the so-called uphill versus downhill rivalry, which is laughable except for the fact that people downhill tend to be more sciency because it's closer to certain buildings. The only 'bitterness' surfaces from the initial matriculation, but almost everyone comes to <3 our beloved institution. It takes some people longer than others since some of my friends initially felt they could have done better yet in the long run felt that they eventually were destined to be here (rationalize this statement however you wish, but keep in mind that the ends were more important than the means). Sure a few people among the masses never get over it, but those people don't try to make use of the resources on campus. They don't try to make things better for themselves and only complain. I can honestly say that the majority of the Tufts campus is very happy to be here, including the once ivy-rejects.</p>

9

<p>Can you explain more about the diversity issues at Tufts. As you said in your epinions, self-segregation is very much on campus. Is it hard to branch out and make friends different people? I've heard accounts of racism at Tufts, such as frat boys beating up an Asian student. Is this true?</p>

10

<p>The whole racism issue is very much alive at Tufts, but this is no different from any other university in the US. I really don't think we have it as badly as some other places do, since you have people coming in from all facets of life...friction is bound to happen. However, that particular incidence from which you speak of, that was stupidity on both parties. No one exactly knows what happened since the university did not disclose the precise details.</p>

<p>The campus is segretated yes, but things are being done to try and bring these things closer together. Much of it isn't even intentional - the international students hang out and make early friends because they all have orientation at a different time than the rest of the Tufts students. I have to go now, but I'll elaborate on this issue later.</p>

11

<p>Snuffles summed it up- and it is important to note that the average Tufts student is still completely approachable and friendly, regardless of whether you both come from the same background. I think another factor to consider is that a lot of students attended high schools where they were an extreme minority, whether it be religious, race, etc. Since Tufts has such a diverse student body and there are so many clubs/programs available for students to further explore their background and identity, I think that a lot of students take advantage of that. As a result, it may so happen that a student living in the International house will hang around international kids (especially since there is the international orientation that snuffles explained), etc etc. </p>

<p>Personally, I am Jewish and I was never very interested in that part of my identity before Tufts, and I started attending Hillel (which is amazing btw, but that's a different story) and I ended up becoming very interested and involved in that organization. There are times when I will look around and think "hmm...all of the people I am around at the moment are Jewish", and it then makes sense to me how easy it is to fall into these self-segregated groups. But, while this is an issue, it certainly is not as negative as it initially seems. I think that college is all about learning about different perspectives/backgrounds while forming and strenghening your own. I certainly get an impressive share of exposure to different perspectives in the classroom, and I had quite a fair share of discussions in my dorm with students from all backgrounds.</p>

12

<p>Well, it seems that you and snuffles are open-minded people, and if what both of you say is true, then there's enough people like you guys to overcome segregation/predjudice at Tufts, a comforting thought. When I hear of the segregation at Tufts, I'm a bit worried. Coming from a background and high school that embraces diversity, I love to meet and be friends with different people. Well, hopefully, the behavior of others won't prevent me from doing that if I attended a school like Tufts. </p>

<p>On the side note:
1.) How's the social life at Tufts? What's popular there? What are some of the on-campus events that students flock to?
2.) How is the workload? Is it over-the-top or manageable? Are people happy at Tufts?
3.) Is it possible to study-abroad while being a pre-med, participating in some activities, and double-major? (I was just thinking about this?)</p>

13

<p>"In fact, I know a ton of students who have it the other way around- people who even applied early to Tufts, were rejected, and then accepted at other ivy's/top schools."</p>

<p>I think its called Tufts' Syndrome.</p>

14

<p>Tufts Syndrome, as I'd like to propose, no longer exists. If you'd like to see the debate, it's been beaten to death in the Tufts forums. </p>

<p>1.) How's the social life at Tufts? What's popular there? What are some of the on-campus events that students flock to? </p>

<p>Lively and pretty fun. It's all about how much you'd like to seek out things to do. Make no initiative, and nothing will come to you if you willingly stay in your room 24/7. Try and find things, and a string of activities will open up to you - you will find at times that there is not enough time to do them all (and this inevitably happens at the end of the semester when finals are coming up too!)</p>

<p>2.) How is the workload? Is it over-the-top or manageable? Are people happy at Tufts?
Very manageable if you have a good work ethic. A lot of people do not come in managing their time well, but inevitably it must form in order to maintain decent academic standing. Everyone works hard. The libraries are packed near finals, and most students take their academics very very seriously. We don't come here to blast 40k a year to learn nothing :) And yes, I think we are much happier than average when comparing satisfaction reviews of peer universities. </p>

<p>3.) Is it possible to study-abroad while being a pre-med, participating in some activities, and double-major? (I was just thinking about this?)
It's possible to study-abroad as a pre-med, but there must be careful planning. We have hired a premed/sciences advisor at Tufts, Carol Baffi-Dugan, who has served on several admissions committees at medical schools. She is an invaluable Tufts resource - everyone tries to get that highly coveted 15-30 minutes of consulation time, often taking weeks in advance due to heavy booking and neurotic students around class registration time. But to answer your question about participating in activities, yes, very possible to do so. Being a premed at Tufts is extremely rigorous, but it only consumes your life during exam times. Forgive me for the cliche statement, but it's all about balance.</p>

<p>We have a general website, <a href="http://www.tuftslife.com%5B/url%5D"&gt;www.tuftslife.com&lt;/a> that is a common website that everyone checks to see posted activities. Check it out! (though there won't be much going on during the summer)</p>

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<p>haha oh the "Tufts syndrome"...collegeperson I was merely trying to make the point that I know of a lot of people who applied early to Tufts, (making it their first choice, and they would attend if accepted), and were rejected, then accepted by ivy league schools during reg. decision. This simply would not make any sense in relation to the outdated "Tufts Syndrome"- why wouldn't Tufts want an exceptional student to join the incoming class if they are showing so much interest and will definitely matriculate if accepted? Tufts is simply increasingly more selective and it has lost that "Tufts Syndrome" title.</p>

<p>Private- I have especially come to appreciate the academic caliber at Tufts while currently taking classes at another less academically-focused school. The other students at Tufts really allow me to work to my full potential and they are supportive yet still driven, which I appreciate. When I look back to the fact that I have busted out quality 30 page research papers in 30 hours and consider all that I have been able to accomplish with community outreach projects outside of class, it really makes me realize how much I am getting out of my education. I am definitely being challenged but I wouldn't want it any other way.</p>

16

<p>1.) What were some of your negative and best experiences at Tufts?
2.) How would you describe your first year experiences at Tufts?
3.) What is the best part(building) of Tufts campus?</p>

17

<p>Yo private joker,</p>

<p>My epinions basically discusses the first 2 questions, but to put it succinctly:</p>

<ol>
<li>Negative- housing lottery (more stressful then it needs to be, not enough on-campus housing for juniors), and the fact that our campus is a giant hill (which is harsh at first, but actually ends up conditioning your legs like crazy...hence Tufts' "freshman 8" instead of the "freshman 15")<br></li>
</ol>

<p>Positive- TALLOIRES! Amazing- this is Tufts' program in the Alps of France. Tufts bought their own priory that dates back to the 11th century (technically making Tufts the oldest campus in the US ;-) ), and they offer an incredible summer program. Check it out: <a href="http://ase.tufts.edu/frenchalps/%5B/url%5D"&gt;http://ase.tufts.edu/frenchalps/&lt;/a> </p>

<p>Also, some of my favorite experiences have been as simple as staying up all night painting and guarding the cannon with friends (one of Tufts' traditions) and celebrating Homecoming and Spring Fling weekends (people go all out).</p>

<ol>
<li><p>umm...incredible. haha check out the epinions (as I wrote it during my freshman year and my views have not significantly changed)</p></li>
<li><p>I have a lot of favorite parts/buildings, but I would have to say that the Academic Quad sprawling out to the Library and the President's Lawn is my favorite. This is a huge chunk of campus, and the historical buildings and grassy hills give student's an incredible view of the Boston skyline, as well as a prime location to lay out when the weather is nice and relax.</p></li>
</ol>

18

<p>D visited Tufts this weekend and fell in love. A few questions:
1. any perceptions, beyond just stats, of what college is looking for in ED candidates?
2. opinions/perceptions about ED1 v. ED2?
3. suggestions for safeties for a student interested in Tufts? </p>

<p>Thanks.</p>

19

<p>Tufts is in my neighboring town.</p>

20

<p>I am in Talloires as we speak! It indeed is a wonderful program, and I have improved my french from almost nothing (though lots of people go without knowing any french at all) and I now have a greater understanding of french culture. My host family is wonderful and we have the most hilarious discussions on american and french politics. Aside from learning inside the classroom, there are plenty of things to do in France. There's nothing like being in Annecy and Talloires, the lake is beautiful, the town is quaint, and the food is wonderful when being fed day and night! French tartlettes at the price of approximately 2 dollars being sold everywhere is a sight for sore eyes...I don't think I can ever go back to an american bakery and have the same expectations. I think this experience has been the BEST time I've had in my Tufts education in terms of "worldliness" thus far. I'm just sad to see it go - 6 weeks is NOT enough time.</p>

<p>1.) What were some of your negative and best experiences at Tufts?
Housing definitely was NOT fun. The graduation requirements are extensive, but I can understand why they are there as they force you to get a very broad education, although it initially ends up being a pain. However, things like the culture festivals are way cool when you see people dressed up in various international attire while doing dances :) I particularly like the Chinese ribbon/fan dance every year.</p>

<p>2.) How would you describe your first year experiences at Tufts?
Confusing, but nevertheless helpful. I sort-of crashed and burned with intro chemistry, but it didn't kill me. I realized that my study habits from high school did not suit me in this new atmosphere, but upon taking organic chemistry with a renewed vow to study and not waste time, I did considerably better. In fact, I think organic chemistry is easier than intro :)</p>

<p>3.) What is the best part(building) of Tufts campus?
I really like the academic quad too. It took me a year to figure out that those trees were planted in straight lines:"Hey! Why can I see all across the lawn- ooooooh!"</p>