Ok. I’m caught up now.
International relations is a strength at Tufts.
Natural sciences are a strength at Massachusetts.
The commonwealth honors college is a unique experience within the larger whole. Dormitories, facilities, access to classes, special events and notated on degree and transcript last I heard. It’s a special environment within an overall special environment. I like the broad economic diversity at Massachusetts, lots of scrappy students. It’s a great college town too.
If he likes the pioneer valley as more rustic, he will like Cornell’s location too.
Cornell and Tufts have stellar reputations. If he is considering bolstering his IR career with grad school or law school, which I would recommend, all three would be incredible at preparing him for that opportunity. Massachusetts would give him a war chest towards that goal if you are on board.
The big wild card is cost. If costs were the same and he liked all equally well. You could make the case for tufts in IR and Cornell for the science component.
In the world of economic realism, I would take the Massachusetts opportunity and gladly send in the deposit! Coupled with the fact that he’s most excited by the school is a huge bonus.
If Cornell comes through it would be understandable if he decided to head to NY. I don’t know if I would pay the premium unless you are assured of it having no impact on your life.