WashU vs. Tufts -- Any Advice?

College Search & Selection
1

<p>I'm really considering both schools equally and I see lots of pros and cons for both. I visited Tufts last year, and the campus was ok, but the vibe I got from the students was really nice (our tour guide was surprised mid-tour by her friends wishing her happy birthday [it was her birthday that day] and nearby students at the library were offering free hugs to students who had just finished finals, etc). Additionally, while Tufts isn't IN Boston, it's still very close by, possibly allowing me to utilize resources in Boston(?).</p>

<p>WashU is very good too--I've heard it's academic programs are a bit better than that of Tufts (ranked 13 in US, 33 globally), but I don't give too much credence to word of mouth and rankings. The location is different (not better or worse), with a different feel (esp considering I come from New England, so a different culture would be very nice).</p>

<p>I also have a large interest in science and research--if all goes well, I plan on attending grad school and pursuing a PhD. My primary interest is in physics (astrophysics, cosmology, quantum physics) and at the moment that's the major I'm eying (along with a possible double major or a minor in a humanities). Even if I decide not to major in physics for some odd reason, I'll most probably be majoring in some science.</p>

<p>Which college would be better for physics? Which for general science and research? What do you guys recommend?</p>

2

<p>Wash u is definitely better for science and research. Tufts forte is IR. I’m from the wash u area and I can say I love the area. wish I had been accepted.</p>

3

<p>You are smart to put aside the rankings–they mean nothing, esp. in light of both schools’ being wonderful on a lot of fronts.</p>

<p>My knowledge of both schools, as well, from students who are (and who have graduated) at both schools is that they are BOTH strong across the academic spectrum. True enough, that Tufts has an international outlook, comprehensive and well-taught foreign languages, and renown IR. Sciences are excellent at Tufts (as they are at Wash U.), and I know a current physics major (junior), at Tufts, with two patents to his name. </p>

<p>The dorms are nicer at Wash. U., and I know some “coastal” kids have had a hard time with being in St. Louis–my daughter was one such kid who thought the world of Wash U. but lived on one coast and summered on the other coast. She felt claustrophobic being “inland.”</p>

<p>I have heard, over the years, that Wash U. has more overt academic zealousness than Tufts, which some find energizing while others find it stressful. Based on whom I know who attends/attended both schools, the demographic is pretty similar.</p>

<p>Both schools afford fantastic research opportunities (you are talking world-class universities), and Boston may offer even more research opportunities because of the sheer number of universities and research institutions in the area.</p>

<p>Really, both schools can provide a stellar education, even in the physical sciences. You might, then, consider geography–that remains, in my mind, the major difference.</p>

<p>I know the social climate of Tufts better than Wash U., and the Tufts students seem happy, really in love with the school and thrilled with the friendships they have made. They also speak of a lot of faculty (professors) support.</p>

<p>But the idea that Tufts is for humanities while Wash U. serves the scientist is patently inaccurate. </p>

<p>Good luck with your decision–you are talking about two superlative schools. Let your instincts guide you, not some rankings that are driven by some really silly criteria, frankly.</p>

4

<p>If you haven’t visited Wash U, go. The campus is really extraordinary, and the location next to an immense and beautiful park/museums/nice neighborhood is terrific.</p>