U.S. College Road Trip! Episode 19 - Tufts University, Boston, MA

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Tufts University: Where Quirkiness Meets Academic Excellence

Tufts University: the mid-sized private research university that proves you can be brilliant, curious, and just a little weird—all at the same time. Located just outside of Boston in Medford, MA, Tufts blends the best of a small liberal arts college and a major research university, making it a place where intellectual curiosity and creativity thrive.

How quirky is Tufts? Well, their supplemental essay prompts have included gems like:

• "Celebrate your nerdy side" (Finally, a school that appreciates your deep dive into 17th-century mapmaking).

• "What does #YOLO mean to you?" (Hopefully, your answer wasn’t just “Drake lyrics.”)

• "Are we alone?" (Philosophical reflection or invitation to submit a conspiracy theory? You decide.)

Clearly, Tufts doesn’t just want smart students—they want students who think differently.

Famous Jumbos (Yes, Their Mascot is an Elephant Named Jumbo)

Tufts' alumni roster is proof that this university breeds creativity, talent, and a touch of quirkiness:

• Hank Azaria (Simpsons legend and voice of half the characters you grew up with).

• Tracy Chapman (Fast Car singer, proving Tufts also produces icons).

• Rainn Wilson (The Office’s Dwight Schrute—so yes, Tufts students are assistant regional manager material).

And, in case you were wondering—yes, Jumbo the Elephant (P.T. Barnum’s circus star) is the school mascot, and Tufts is the only university in the U.S. with an official mascot that’s a taxidermied elephant (or, well, was, until he tragically burned down in a fire).

Why Tufts? (Besides the Fact That They Let You Paint a Cannon)

1. Diversity: A True Mix of People and Ideas

Tufts balances the intimacy of a small liberal arts college with the power of a major research university, meaning you’ll meet people from all walks of life while still getting the kind of individual attention that makes learning personal.

2. The ExCollege: The Coolest Courses You’ll Ever Take

The Experimental College (ExCollege) is where professors, visiting lecturers, and even students teach innovative, offbeat courses that you won’t find anywhere else. Want to take a class on Superheroes, the Mafia, or the Science of Happiness? Tufts says, why not?

3. Traditions: The Cannon That Never Stops Changing

Tufts’ most famous tradition? The Cannon. Students paint this thing all the time—for causes, birthdays, random messages, and inside jokes that only make sense at 2 AM. Want to be part of history? Bring a paintbrush and a reason.

4. Boston is Your Playground

With campuses in Medford, Somerville, Grafton, and Boston, Tufts students get the full Boston experience without having to fight off Red Sox fans for space in the city. Need an internship? Boston’s got you covered. Want a weekend adventure? Harvard kids are right down the street, and they’d love to debate you.

5. Alumni Who Actually Stay Connected

Tufts graduates don’t just disappear into the world—they stay involved. The strong alumni network helps students with networking, mentorship, and career opportunities, ensuring that Tufts connections last well beyond graduation.

By the Numbers (A.K.A. Why Tufts is a “Reach” School for Many)

• Acceptance Rate (Class of 2027): 9.5% (Yep, competitive.)

• Average SAT Score: 1440-1550 (Basically, bring your A-game.)

• Average ACT Score: 33-35 (Also, make sure your quirky side shines through in the essays.)

Here’s the link for admissions to learn more. https://www.tufts.edu/admissions Go Jumbos! Ask P.T. Barnham about it.

Feeling overwhelmed with the university admissions process? We can help. Check out our website and schedule an appointment with a counselor to see exactly how we can help you find your best fit school and make your application the strongest it can be.

Tufts Alum? Any insight into your experiences would be amazing. At Next Level College Application we do not have an agenda other than helping our clients find the schools that are the best fit for them.