Wesleyan v. Tufts

<p>I was just rejected ED from Penn.</p>

<p>Both Wesleyan and Tufts are considered "matches" for me. I have a strong art and journalism hook (although I want to major in social sciences). I really like both schools, and I'm considering applying ED 2 to one of them. </p>

<p>Wesleyan has a great College of Social Sciences major and I love its liberal atmosphere and originality. However, it's pretty small and kind of in the middle of nowhere. </p>

<p>Tufts has a great location, size, and daily newspaper. But there's nothing I can see in particular drawing me to it academically.</p>

<p>Do you have any thoughts about the atmosphere/social scene/academics of either? I've been on overnights at both and I actually spent 5 weeks at Wes two summers ago. I liked them about the same. Any commentary would be much appreciated.</p>

<p>I don't think tufts has anything like the College of Social Sciences Major that Wesleyan offers and if you are interested in a very intense, challenging and unique curriculum, it is hard to beat that course of study. Tuft's originality appears to lie more in the synergy between its engineering school and its other departments which doesn't appear to be where you are headed. Although time is short, you might check out midsize or larger colleges and universities with honors programs which might meet your intellectual needs.</p>

<p>thanks mol. does anyone have any thoughts about the school atmosphere, student body?</p>

<p>Check the archives. There has been a lot of discussion in the parents thread about both schools.</p>

<p>Well, I applied early decision to Wesleyan...</p>

<p>Most people's negative reactions relate to the overwhelming liberal atmosphere there. The feeling I get is that people pride themselves on their progressive attitudes and intellectual abilities... I like that. The people I know who go to Tufts tend to work harder but also party harder... however, that's just the impression I get.</p>

<p>Academically, the two schools are of a similar level. However, there atmospheres are quite different, and it really boils down to which school you'd feel more comfortable at. Stay overnight at each school if possible, and see what you like better!</p>