<p>Got accepted to both and was wondering which was better for international relations. I am split because although I know Tufts is more famous for IR, Berkeley has more prestige (internationally, nationally). Also, I'm more confused because Berkeley (8th) is ranked higher than Tufts (13th) for undergraduate IR, according to foreign policy. So, I was also wondering if the International Area Studies program at Berkeley was equally competative as Tufts.</p>
<p>Any help would help :)!</p>
<p>I don't know much about Tufts. However, when I was at Berkeley, a girl on my dorm floor transferred from Tufts. She preferred the academic/social environment at Cal.</p>
<p>Both are great and will serve you well. Choose for cost and other factors. Don't choose just based on the rankings.</p>
<p>Have you visited both? What are your out-of-pocket cost differences?</p>
<p>To really forge a career in IR, your graduate school will be more important than undergrad. Both Cal/Tufts will offer a good preparation, and different benefits. Consider things like languages (which school offers more - it used to be Berkeley's major strength in the liberal arts) study abroad and internship opportunities (here I'd think Tufts would have an advantage.) Finally, these are two very different schools: Tufts is tiny, set in a small town, has that whole east coast LAC vibe. Cal could not be more different. If you like huge urban campuses, Cal could be your place. But as an undergraduate you're more likely to get more attention/support at Tufts. It really boils down to what kind of campus culture appeals to you more.</p>
<p>Thank you!
Also, i wanted to clarify a bit more....
got regent's scholarship to Berkeley, is it that much of a deal to base my decision to go to Berkeley (Tufts is also offering the same amount)...</p>
<p>Also then, would it be safe to say that Berkeley's International Area Studies department is just as good as Tufts?</p>
<p>I also would like to focus on East Asian Studies and humanitarian efforts...which would best prepare to pursue these interests?</p>
<p>Lastly, since Berkeley is a large college, to what extent do you have to do everything on your own. How much guidance is actually given by professors? In terms of Tufts, how much support do you really get in reality from professors?</p>
<p>^ East Asian studies is a top program at Berkeley (what isn't though). Berkeley just opened an East Asian library...the only free-standing dedicated East Asian studies library in the U.S.:
03.14.2008</a> - C.V. Starr East Asian Library to open March 17</p>
<p>
[quote]
Lastly, since Berkeley is a large college, to what extent do you have to do everything on your own. How much guidance is actually given by professors?
[/quote]
Of course, this is Berkeley's weak point. There is not much hand-holding and guidance. The opportunities are there but you need to be active and seek them out for yourself.</p>
<p>Thanks so much! :)</p>
<p>Any more comments, opinions....? The more the better~ :) :) :)</p>