Getting into Tufts with Environmental Studies?

Nervous about applying! Are there any Environmental Studies majors at or alumni from Tufts who can tell me about their experience getting in and studying there? Is it competitive? Any pointers that you can share?

Sure, it's completely normal to feel nervous and kudos to you for seeking advice! Tufts University has an excellent program for Environmental Studies, and it’s interdisciplinary which opens up many options for you. Students have the flexibility to choose which aspect of environmental studies they're most interested in whether that be policy, science, humanities, or social sciences.

The admissions process is competitive, but remember it's comprehensive. Admissions officers consider all elements of your application, including your GPA, course rigor, SAT/ACT scores (if you choose to submit them), essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities. For environmental studies, having some relevant extracurriculars can make your application stronger. These could include involvement in environmental clubs at your school, volunteering for conservation efforts, or even starting your own initiative. Let me explain why these are important with an example - if you've been involved in a community garden project, it demonstrates your commitment to the field and your ability to put abstract concepts into action.

In your essay, make sure to share your passion for environmental studies and any experiences you have in that field – internships, projects, or clubs. The Tufts supplements are great places to show this. Discuss classes, faculty, research opportunities, or clubs that interest you within Tufts' environmental studies and how you would use these resources to further your academic goals.

Lastly, grades and standardized test scores are also a significant part of your application. Strong performance in rigorous classes, especially those related to environmental studies like biology, chemistry, or environmental science, is a good indicator that you'll thrive in the Environmental Studies program at Tufts.

Remember, this process is as much about the school finding a good fit as it is about you finding the right college, and by seeking out advice on how to approach it you're already using some of the key skills undergraduates need: initiative, curiosity, determination, and practical research. Good luck with your application!