Tufts vs Amherst: Opinions wanted!

I've been accepted to both Tufts and Amherst, and need to make a decision. I'm leaning towards majoring in international relations, but I'm not 100% sure yet. Any opinions on the social scene, academics, and overall atmosphere of these two schools? Thanks in advance!

First of all, congratulations on your acceptances to both Tufts and Amherst! Both schools are amazing choices, but they do have distinct differences, so let's break them down.

Academics: Tufts is known for its strong international relations program, while Amherst is a prestigious liberal arts college with a more general focus in multiple areas. In terms of academics, the two schools have different approaches. Amherst follows an open curriculum, meaning you have the freedom to explore various subjects without being confined to specific distribution requirements. On the other hand, Tufts has a more structured curriculum.

Social Scene: The social scenes at these schools can also be differentiated. Amherst, being a smaller school, has a tight-knit community with a focus on on-campus activities. The student body tends to be more cohesive, which can be comforting to some students. Tufts, being a mid-sized university, has a diverse social scene with more clubs, organizations, and activities to be a part of. There's a larger community in which you can connect with students from different backgrounds and interests.

Atmosphere: The campuses are located in different settings, which can impact the overall atmosphere. Amherst is situated in a quaint college town with a scenic backdrop, whereas Tufts is near the bustling city of Boston. Tufts offers easy access to all the cultural and social opportunities that a metropolitan city provides, while Amherst presents a picturesque and close-knit environment.

In the end, your decision should be based on factors that are most important to you: academics, social scene, location, or campus environment. Consider visiting both campuses if you have the opportunity or speak with current students to get a sense of the vibes at each school. Good luck with your decision!