<p>DS can't believe his luck, having been accepted at both Tufts and Macalester! But now comes the big decision... He does not know what he wants to do in the long term -- he loves creative writing, has taken a real interest in his AP Government class lately, is fascinated by all things technological (but hates math), is very entrepreneurial, likes to argue/discuss/debate ideas, and enjoys the company of international students he's met, as well as other interesting people (preferably with a sense of humor). He is a good student, but prefers a less competitive environment, if possible, where he'll have a chance to exercise some creativity. Also, he's excited about being in a city, to partake of all kinds of activities, but especially indy and other music concerts. So the big question is -- which school is a better fit for him? We look forward to hearing all opinions, and will cross-post this on the Macalester board. Thanks!</p>
<p>THe notion of better fit is so subjective and personal to the individual that the only way to get the right answer is for him to visit both schools, attend a class or two, preferably stay overnight with a student and see where he feels like he belongs.
THey are both great schools, but for me personally it wouldn’t be a contest. It would be Tufts.</p>
<p>Yes, he is planning on visiting both and will be hanging out on accepted student pages getting to know kids that way, but in the meantime, I was hoping to find out more about the differences in campus culture between Tufts and Mac – social scene as well academic atmosphere – competitiveness, class size/participation, connection with professors, workload, etc. I should say, by the way, that we’re from California, so either place will be a big change!</p>
<p>My son didn’t apply to Macalaster because he felt it was too small. It’s obviously a great place, but I think there is a danger that one might grow out of it. </p>
<p>My son is a prospective IR major - a bit of a smart slacker in high school. No aptitude for languages which is proving to be a bit of a problem - he’s hanging on by his teeth in Arabic. He’s already had opportunities (winter break travel grant, meeting the movers and shakers of the nuclear disarmament world) that I can’t imagine freshmen getting elsewhere. The presence of grad schools, other Bostons schoools, and the Global Leadership Institute are all things he’s taken advantage of. He’s working harder than he’s ever worked in his life. He’s planning ahead in a way I’ve never seen him do before. Most of his classes have been very good. </p>
<p>Tufts seems very accepting of a variety of types. They really mean it when they say they believe in active citizenship.</p>