Tufts vs. Northeastern

binky17
Thu, 12 Apr 2018 23:15:36 +0000

Hi @citylights11. After sifting through acceptances, finances and fit this time last year, my son was choosing between Northeastern Honors and Tufts. We flew out in April for a self-conducted visit to NE (third time visiting) and Jumbo Days.

He arranged a visit to a class (I highly recommend this!) and a meeting with a professor in his field at NE. We also had coffee with a professor we know there. As impressive as NE was (and we would’ve been happy enough had he chosen it), the ride to Medford was quiet. In hindsight, he felt that it was too bustling and impersonal. He felt like everyone knew what they were doing (of course not everyone does) and that he hadn’t a clue.

We got to Tufts (second visit, the first really making a stellar impression) and within 10 minutes of meeting students, he knew. All smiles. It seemed – and is – collegial and friendly.

I strongly urge, if possible, a final comparative walkabout and go with your gut. Ambience matters.

Only a year later can he speak to the issue of co-op. He says kids at Tufts have a lot of respect for Northeastern and impressive Northeastern students. Successful Northeastern students truly have that individual initiative. My son says that, retrospectively, he sort of knew he wanted to hang out with friends and experience college qua college without the pressure of knowing – or pretending to know – what he wanted to do at 17.

There are a lot of introverts at Tufts, btw. I think it is a comfortable place for introverted students.

Study abroad is easy at both places.

Fit is important. If you can, pull back and see which place registers with you instinctually.

Good luck. Congratulations on your acceptances. Either way, you are in good hands.