I went to Tufts undergrad and my daughter just finished her first year at UofM COE. Let me start by saying that if you are comparing quality of the engineering programs, Michigan wins hands down. There is just no comparison. Both schools offer great academics, but Tufts simply can’t match Michigan’s resources in engineering. But if OP doesn’t think he will stay in engineering, then it really comes down to fit. The feel of each school is completely different. Michigan offers more of the “traditional” college experience. Tufts is more politically active and, oddly, less cohesive even though it is smaller. It is hard to top going to college in Boston, but Ann Arbor has many charms. OP says sports are not for him, so if he would feel odd at school where many people do care about football, etc. then Tufts is a great choice. Ultimately, if the quality of the engineering program is paramount, go with michigan. Otherwise go with your gut.