<p>Since the schools seem relatively similar and are near each other (Boston area), I was wondering if any of you could compare and contrast the two schools in different areas and overall. I know Tufts is slightly more difficult to gain acceptance to. I have heard negatives regarding Brandeis’ “ugly” campus. I’ve heard that Tufts is too preprofessional.(and about Tufts Syndrome). As of now I am leaning towards Tufts between the two (I luv Brown the most though), but I’d like to hear your opinions.</p>
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<li> It depends on what you're studying. Both schools have their strengths and weakness.<br></li>
<li> I don't find Brandeis unbearably ugly and we have larger rooms. =P</li>
<li> In my honest opinion, the two are essentially the same with a few differences, but Brandeis gives merit aid (the major reason I didn't apply to Tufts).</li>
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<p>So basically, check out the departments of the schools in the areas you're interested in, visit, and consider financial shtuff. Tufts probably also has a little more in the way of an established social life (Greek system and whatnot) while Brandeis probably has a more activist community. Both can be plusses and minusses depending on what you're looking for. I think Brandeis is also a bit smaller.</p>
<p>Both are fantastic universities, so you really can't lose with either option. Brandeis is definitely smaller. Tufts has a very strong International Relations program. At Brandeis you can cross-register for classes at Tufts if you can fit it into your schedule.
Don't listen to others about how ugly/how beautiful any college campus is. If you are serious about a college, come see it for yourself! A lot find the campus hideous, and a lot find it great. To be frank, I didn't think the Brandeis campus was all that spectacular. But hey, it's a great school, and I never really had 'attractiveness of campus' as a major factor in deciding on a college.</p>
<p>They are very similar in many ways but do each have character of their own. My son and I found that the Brandeis kids we talked to really LOVED their school. The level of enthusiasm seemed higher at Brandeis but that could just be a sampling issue. Tufts is more directly connected with Boston as they are on the Red Line of the T whereas kids from Brandeis rely on a shuttle bus (every 45 minutes) or a commuter train. Brandeis obviously has a Jewish influence although we found that it was not an overwhelming presence and in fact the feel is very multicultural. Tufts has a very quaint campus but we also found Brandeis to be charming, well-kept and attractive. (Also, here is a link from someone who recently visited for her perspective: <a href="http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/showthread.php?t=85992)%5B/url%5D">http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/showthread.php?t=85992)</a>. But as others have posted, you really need to spend quality time at each campus to get a feel for the vibes of the place talking to kids, professors and feeling the environment. Their strengths are similar enough that choosing between them is a subtle process.</p>