tufts university essay examples

Tufts Supplemental Essays 2023-24 – Prompts and Advice

July 13, 2023

Tufts University has long been a highly-selective school. Yet, the Class of 2027 was the second time the acceptance rate dipped into the single-digits at 9.5%. As at any college that rejects more than 9 of every 10 applicants who apply (the overwhelming majority of whom are supremely qualified), aspiring Jumbos need every single component of their application to shine brightly. The Tufts supplemental essays are one such area of focus.

(Want to learn more about How to Get Into Tufts? Visit our blog entitled:  How to Get Into Tufts University: Admissions Data and Strategies  for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

Given this unprecedented level of selectivity, Tufts University’s supplemental section offers applicants a crucial opportunity to showcase their writing ability by generating powerful and detail-rich essays that will stand out to an admissions officer.

Tufts Supplemental Essay Question #1

Which aspects of the tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application in short, “why tufts” (100-150 words).

Tufts University is getting right down to business with this prompt. View this essay as akin to ending up in an elevator with a potential investor with 20 seconds to sell your million-dollar idea. In this “elevator pitch” essay, you only have 150 words to communicate why Tufts is a perfect match for you. As such, this one is going to require a fair amount of school-specific research. Further, plan on a good deal of editing in order to tighten up your essay enough to stay under the word limit.

How to write a winning “Why Tufts?” essay

• How will you take advantage of the university’s vast resources both inside and outside of the classroom?
• How will you become an active, contributing member of the student body?
• Show evidence of how your past/current endeavors will carry over onto the Tufts campus.
• Address a) why Tufts is the perfect fit for you and  b) why you are the perfect fit for Tufts.
• Cite specific academic programs, professors, research opportunities, internship/externship programs, study abroad programs, student-run organizations, etc. (as in the examples below).

Tufts Supplemental Essays (Continued)

Below are some examples of unique facts about Tufts University that you may find helpful as you brainstorm your response:

• There are 41 arts and performance groups on campus for the artistically-inclined.
• There are 300 total student organizations in which you can participate—pick one or two to elaborate on.
• Students are able to double major across colleges.
• With a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, two-thirds of undergraduate sections are kept under 20 students.
• There are numerous undergraduate research programs and scholarships at Tufts. Which one appeals to you and what would you research?
• 40% of juniors study abroad and Tufts boasts a number of notable programs in Beijing, Chile, Ghana, London, and more.
• There are more than 70 undergraduate majors to choose from.
• The Experimental College is a one-of-kind program.
• Tufts offers internship grants to a number of non-profit and government posts.
• An annual Undergraduate Research and Scholarship Symposium presents an exciting opportunity to present your original work to faculty.

Of course, these are just 10 out of the countless features that could be part of a successful essay. As you enter the prewriting stage, you’ll want to decide which elements will provide the most needle-moving value.

One last note on this essay—Tufts is nice enough to actually provide examples of their favorite “Why Tufts?” essays from the last admissions cycle.

Tufts University Supplemental Essay Question #2

Now we’d like to know a little more about you. please respond to one of the following three questions. (200-250 words):, a) it’s cool to love learning. what excites your intellectual curiosity.

In our experience, this is the prompt that applicants tend to select most often, primarily because the “Why Tufts?” essay is so short, students don’t feel they have enough space to talk about the academic discipline they hope to study at the university.

Whether it’s a general love for math/science or literature or a specific interest in aerospace engineering or 19th century French novels, use this opportunity to share what makes you tick, the ideas that keep you up at night, and what subject inspires you to dream big. What topic makes you read books and online content until your eyes bleed? Share the manner in which you relentlessly pursue knowledge. Whether it’s falling down a Wikipedia rabbit hole about the nature of time or consuming thousands of hours of podcasts on game theory, this is a chance to illustrate the ways in which you are an obsessive learner with an endless thirst for information.

The admissions reader should emerge with the sense that you are a sincerely curious person with a strong intellectual drive. If that curiosity can be tied into your intended area of study, all the better!

B) How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing – your family, home, neighborhood, or community – shaped the person you are today?

This essay encourages you to describe how your environment/community has shaped you into the present version of yourself. Community can be a “community” in any form: an ethnic, religious, family, or neighborhood community, or a group of individuals who gather for a club, sport, or service project. You are the captain of a team, the editor-in-chief of your school paper, the president of a club… but don’t just rest on those laurels—instead, bring your involvement to life. Use your writing ability to show the admissions officer the impact your community has had on your dreams rather than merely telling them. If your family/home (parent, grandparent, sibling) was a powerful force in your growth and development, that can be the sole focus of a successful composition here as well.

C) Where are you on your journey of engaging with or fighting for social justice?

Some students may have more direct experience with social justice than others, but—no matter your background—this is an opportunity to demonstrate that you care about justice and fairness in your local community as well as the global community. If applicable, you can speak about a time when you spoke up for a peer in a moment of need. Or, alternatively, share an instance when you got involved in a larger cause or movement (politics, activism, volunteer work, etc.). If you don’t have a deeply personal story to tell in this realm, you’ll want to select a different prompt. While there’s nothing wrong with simply articulating your basic beliefs in the values of inclusion, equity, tolerance, and diversity, it doesn’t necessarily make for the most compelling essay.

If you do choose this essay prompt, draw on past evidence of your commitment to being a positive force in your community and speculate how that is likely to manifest on Tufts’ campus. Research and cite Tufts’ student-run organizations, local nonprofit groups, or anything else you are drawn to. Drawing the link between your past efforts and future aims is critical here.

How important are the Tufts supplemental essays?

Tufts views six factors as being “very important” to their applicant evaluation process. These are: the rigor of one’s coursework, the GPA earned, class rank, recommendations, character/personal qualities, and—most relevant for our purposes here—the essays.

For all essays, we recommend heeding the advice of one Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Tufts University who stated: “Be yourself. When writing your essays, you don’t have to sound like you already have your PhD (spoiler: we know you don’t—you’re applying for an undergraduate program). Instead, employ a voice in your writing that feels authentically you, exploring the topics you actually care about. That’s the voice that will help you stand out in our process.”

Tufts Supplemental Essays – Want Personalized Assistance?

If you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your Tufts supplemental essays, we encourage you to get a quote  today.

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College Essays

Tufts University has a selective acceptance rate— less than 10% in 2022 . You'll need a strong application to stand out from other applicants, including stellar essays. Luckily, this guide is here to help you out!

In this blog post, we'll cover everything you need to know about the writing portion of Tufts University's application, including what prompts are available and how to answer them.

Feature Image: Jellymuffin40 /Wikimedia Commons

If you want to study at Tufts' Ginn Library, you'll need strong essays. Nurcamp /Wikimedia Commons.

What Should You Know About the Tufts University Essays?

Tufts University uses either the Common or Coalition Application, so choose the one that works best for you . Each one has unique essays, so be sure you follow the correct prompt for whichever application you're using.

Both applications have their own writing sections that you'll need to respond to. These essays are more general than the Tufts essays, but it's still important to follow guidelines and aim to impress with them . They're part of your application, and deserve your best effort! The Common Application has one set of prompts to choose from and the Coalition Application has another , so do some reading ahead of time to plan for which one you'll answer if you need to fill out both applications for different schools.

What Prompts Does the Tufts University Application Have?

Tufts University requires you to apply to a specific school within the university during your application. This shouldn't be a problem if you already know what major you'll be applying to, and Tufts recommends not applying as undecided .

The application should give you the correct set of prompts for whichever school you apply to, but you can also check on Tuft's website .

If you're applying to the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering, or 5-year Tufts/NEC combined degree, you'll have two essays. One is a classic "Why Tufts?" essay with a Tufts-specific twist, and the second prompt allows you to make your choice of two options.

For applicants to the BFA or 5-year BFA+BA/BS combined degree program, you'll also have two prompts. The first is, again, a classic "Why Tufts?" essay question, while the other asks you to to respond to one of three questions. 

What Are the Tufts University Prompts?

Because the prompts vary between different schools, there's a lot of information to cover for how to write the ideal Tufts essay. But Tufts does provide some helpful advice —"Think outside the box as you answer the following questions. Take a risk and go somewhere unexpected. Be serious if the moment calls for it, but feel comfortable being playful if that suits you, too."

In short, be yourself . Tufts doesn't just want to hear your academic qualifications, nor do they want to hear their qualifications as a good school recited to them—they already know!

For School of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering, and Tufts/NEC Degree Applicants:

You have two essays to write for this section. Both are required, but the second prompt offers you three potential choices.

Prompt #1: The "Why Tufts?" Essay

The first prompt, which you have 100 to 150 words to answer, reads:

Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? In short, "Why Tufts?"

This is a pretty straightforward question—it's a version of the popular "Why This College?" essay . You wouldn't be applying to Tufts if you didn't already know that you wanted to go there, right? But always be aware that every other student applying to Tufts also knows that it's a good school. You can't just list qualifications back them; you have to dive a little deeper than that.

Tufts wants to know here is not just what attracts you to the college, but also what you'll bring to it . Let your enthusiasm and fresh ideas shine!

Having said that, a great essay is going to show admissions counselors that you've done your research. Be sure you point to specific parts of the "Tufts undergraduate experience" in your writing! For example, maybe there's a specific professor you want to work with, or a unique program that only Tufts offers that's a great fit for you. The more specific you are, the more you'll show admissions counselors that you're serious about becoming a student at Tufts.

Prompt #2: The Free Choice Essay

The second prompt is a little more complex. It also has a word count of 200 to 250, but includes three options you must choose from:

Now we'd like to know a little more about you. Please respond to one of the following three questions.

A) It's cool to love learning. What excites your intellectual curiosity?

B) How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing – your family, home, neighborhood, or community – shaped the person you are today?

C) Where are you on your journey of engaging with or fighting for social justice?

These three prompts are a great way to tell the admissions office more about yourself, particularly if you have extracurricular interests that you haven't had the opportunity to discuss yet.

Any of these prompts is a great choice, but you can only choose one. Here's a breakdown of who each prompt is a good fit for:

• Prompt A: If you're an intellectually curious person, this is a great fit for you. People that fit this mold will engage in learning opportunities outside the classroom and constantly be on the hunt for knowledge. If you're the type that reads news before school or watches documentaries for fun, this is a good prompt for you!
• Prompt B: This is a good all-around prompt! Generally speaking, most people will have some experience that helps them answer this prompt well. Having said that, this prompt requires you to be thoughtful and introspective. You'll need to understand how your experiences and background have shaped the person you are today.
• Prompt C: Social justice is an important topic in 2021, and Tufts admissions officers are interested in students who fit with the university's mission of an "inclusive and collaborative" environment. If you have been part of the social justice movement, this would be a great prompt for you.

Keep in mind these are just suggestions. If one of these prompts jumps out to you as a perfect fit, run with it.

If you can't find this key on your keyboard, you'll have to invent it!

How to Answer Prompt A

In this prompt, Tufts wants to hear about your curiosity and interests. There are two ways you can approach this essay, each of which has its benefits and drawbacks.

First, you can choose an intellectual interest you have that relates to your future major. For example, say you're majoring in biology because you want to be in drug development. If that's the case, you can talk about a specific aspect of drug development that gets you excited. Maybe it's developing new vaccine production methods that use plants instead of animals, or maybe you want to develop new drugs to treat chronic illnesses like multiple sclerosis.

The trick here is being specific and letting your passion shine through, then tying all of that back to your future studies at Tufts. Don't be afraid to talk about a class you can't wait to take, or a project you hope to explore while you're in school. Just make sure that you're balancing talking about why you're curious with your academic plans. You don't want this to sound exactly like your "Why Tufts?" essay!

The second way you can approach this topic is by choosing something you're curious about that's a passion of yours, even if it isn't related to your major. This has the benefit of showing you're curious about more than just your major field, which is something admissions counselors are looking for.

For example, maybe you want to major in kinesiology, but you love social media and you're curious about how it impacts the ways we behave. You don't have to be majoring in psychology or computer science to write about this topic if you're passionate about it! The trick — and drawback — to going this route is making sure you're still connecting this passion back to your plans as a potential Tufts student. Maybe this curiosity has made you want to join the Tufts Psychology Society so you can learn more about how you can use human behavior and social media to help motivate people in your future career as a physical therapist.

How to Answer Prompt B

This prompt is asking you to write about how your background has shaped your character. Admissions counselors are looking for essays that showcase your thoughtfulness, especially in terms of how your experiences impact you as a person. This is a chance for you to highlight parts of your personality and identity that might not otherwise come across in your admissions materials.

If you choose this essay prompt, you'll want to spend some time figuring out which aspect of your background you want to focus on. Luckily, the prompt gives you a few ideas (family, home, neighborhood, and community) to start with, but you're not limited to those! Maybe you want to talk about an after school program you were a part of, or a sports team you played on for your entire childhood. As long as this experience or environment played a substantial part in your upbringing, it's fair game.

Whatever you choose, make sure you're choosing one thing . Don't talk about your family and your neighborhood and your community. This essay isn't long enough to cover all of that material! Instead, pick one thing and get specific. Explain why was this experience or environment important to you, and go into detail about how it impacted you as a person.

The best answers to this prompt are going to tell a story about your experience that helps readers connect with who you are. Perhaps one of the things that most shaped your character was growing up with five siblings. Tell a story about a specific moment that will help admissions counselors understand what that was like!

And finally, don't forget to connect this back to being a Tufts student by explaining how your character is a good fit for the university. For instance, let's go back to having lots of siblings. Maybe that's taught you to value everyone for their unique personalities because no matter how different you are, everyone brings something special to the table. Because of that, you're excited about making new friends and bringing people together as part of the Tufts community.

How to Answer Prompt C

This prompt is all about social justice. If you're not sure what social justice is, the National Association of Social Workers defines it as "the view that everyone deserves equal economic, political and social rights and opportunities." Put another way, social justice is the fight for equality for everyone regardless of their race, class, or economic status.

To answer this prompt, you'll need to explain how you're learning about, involved in, or fighting for social justice. What steps are you taking to help further this cause in your own life? Note that the prompt uses the term "journey," here. That means admissions counselors aren't expecting you to have this whole "social justice" thing figured out! So don't worry if you haven't arranged a march in your community or taken up donations to help with the Black Lives Matter movement. Admissions counselors are more interested in how you're learning about the social justice movement and making changes in your life to support that cause.

Here's the thing: if you're not part of the social justice movement or aren't comfortable with the idea, do not write this Tufts essay. You're given essay options for a reason! Admissions counselors are trained to sniff out falsehoods, so the worst thing you could do is fib about your social justice work. It's okay if this isn't a good topic for you!

If you do choose this prompt, make sure you start with a story. Did you participate in a march? Have you volunteered with a social justice oriented organization? Telling a specific story about your experience will help readers connect with you as a person. It's also okay if your experience with social justice was talking with a friend about it and realizing that you can do more to support the cause. Like the old saying goes: it's not about the destination — it's about what you're learning in the process.

Also, be honest about what your journey so far. It's okay to say you're still learning, or that the journey has been tough. Admissions counselors value authenticity, and the truth is that fighting for social justice can be hard. Just make sure you're keeping your discussion as positive as you can! Focus on what you've learned and how hard you're trying to make a difference.

And of course, be sure you tie this all back to Tufts. Explain how your understanding of social justice will affect how you participate in your classes and on-campus events. Make it clear that you're going to bring a spirit of equity with you to campus since that's what admissions counselors want to see in future Tufts students.

For BFA, 5-Year BFA+BA/BS at SMFA Applicants:

This section has two required essays. You don't have any choice over which prompts you'll be answering, which eliminates some of the struggle to choose the best option for you.

Prompt #1: The "Why SMFA at Tufts?" Essay

The first prompt, which must be answered in 100 to 150 words, reads:

Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? Why SMFA at Tufts?

This prompt is similar to the "Why Tufts?" essay prompt, but with a slightly different focus. SMFA at Tufts is the School of the Museum of Fine arts program at Tufts , so it's definitely for those interested in the arts.

The admissions office wants to see you demonstrate what exactly draws you to this school over others, and what specifically drives you to seek an art degree . What will you get out of Tufts that you couldn't get elsewhere? How will an art degree enrich your life, and how will you use that degree in the future?

Colleges want to foster intellectual growth in their communities, which is why they ask for more than a standard "this is a good school" answer. They want to know why you want to attend, but they also want to know what you're bringing to the community .

Browsing Tufts and SMFA at Tufts galleries are a great way to get some inspiration. Can you see your artwork fitting in there? What will you offer that isn't already represented?

Think about art that you've created or art that you want to create . How will Tufts help you get there? What makes you want to pursue an art degree, rather than art as a supplement to another field? Clearly articulating your interest and commitment will demonstrate that you're a good fit for Tufts to the admissions office.

Prompt #2: The Art Prompt

The second prompt, also with a 200 to 250 word count, reads:

Art has the power to disrupt our preconceptions, shape public discourse, and imagine new ways of being in the world. What are the ideas you'd like to explore in your work?

This question dives a little bit deeper into your artistic mind. It's not enough to create art that is beautiful on a surface level—Tufts wants to know that you're thinking about your art meaningfully, too .

This prompt is essentially an artist's statement , though it's focused more on your artistic intent on a large scale rather than on an individual piece. Look through some of your favorite art you've created and think about common themes and recurring ideas, even if you didn't intend for them to be there . What concepts are you trying to explore, even subconsciously?

Consider not just what your art looks or sounds like, but also what it's made of and why you chose to make it that way. Think beyond availability or ease of use—always keep the question of "why" in your mind.

Themes are good, but try not to go too general or invent something that isn't there. Much of art is about capturing beauty, so try to think deeper than that. And if you're going to claim that your art critiques or represents something, you need to be able to demonstrate that— analyze what you've created to show how it connects to your themes, don't simply project something over the top and hope that admissions officers don't notice it wasn't really there .

What Do Tufts Essays That Worked Look Like?

Thankfully, Tufts University isn't shy about putting accepted essays online for applicants to browse. While some of these essays apply to older topics, they'll still help you get a sense of what admissions counselors are looking for in excellent students (and their essays).

"Why Tufts?" Essay That Worked

I vividly remember stepping onto the roof of Tisch Library and seeing a group of kids sitting in hammocks, overlooking the Boston skyline. I briefly tuned out my tour guide's presentation and began to eavesdrop. The students covered everything from physics to what they had for lunch that day. When they spoke about physics, they did not speak with pretension; instead they spoke with passion. Likewise, when they spoke about something as simple as lunch, they did so with witty intrigue. Tufts students are as interesting as they are interested. This description not only resonates with me, it defines me.

This essay does an excellent job of answering the questions at the core of the "Why Tufts?" essay. The writer channels an experience they had while at Tufts, detailing how listening in on other students solidified their desire to attend. They use words like "passion" to describe Tufts students, showing traits they also want to channel.

The ending really hits on something important: this student wanted to be part of the student body because the students they overheard were not only interesting people, but also interested . Remember the prompts mention of being "intellectually playful?" This is the perfect way to demonstrate curiosity, interest, and love of learning int he specific context of Tufts .

"What Have You Created?" Essay That Worked

This essay applies to an older prompt that asked students to talk about one of their creations. Here's what this student had to say:

When people talk about building something, creating it, they most often mean something physical. Engineers, architects, and laborers, these are the professions that I think of as making things. I've never been much of a builder, I lack that particular understanding of the world that is required to envision what you will build, and have never been coordinated enough to make much of anything with my hands, but I can create. What I have made is not something you can hold or touch, it spans no gaps and holds no weight, and I can't even claim to have laid a single finger on its construction. My creation is a poem, or rather, poems. Series of letters symbolic of sounds strung together to make words, which are in turn collected into lines and stanzas, pieces of a whole. My poems cannot be touched, but they can touch you; though they won't form a bridge, they can cross a divide; and while you'll never be able to weigh them on a scale, the weight of the ideas they hold can be felt the moment you read them. So I may not be an engineer or an architect or a laborer, but I am a creator. I craft words into meaning, forge lines into rhymes, and sculpt imaginations. So even if I can't hold what I make, I can watch it take shape and see its impact on the world.

This essay does an excellent job of answering the question not just by stating the answer, but by embodying it . It's clear that the student is a writer; their language is vivid, immediate, and playful, demonstrating how strong their grasp is on word meanings and sentence structure.

Importantly, this essay doesn't disparage other disciplines—it interprets poetry using language physical creators might use, such as "spans," "bridge," and "weight.

There's a great deal of creativity and intellectual play in this essay, which serve to set the writer apart from students who might have focused more on the existence of the thing they'd built (a souped-up car engine, for example) than the function of the thing they'd built (a souped-up car engine that reduces carbon emissions, for example).

When tackling this prompt, think about how you, too, can exemplify your creation in your essay .

Think like a dolphin: smart and playful!

Key Points for Your Tufts Essays

Best practices for Tufts essays are similar to other schools, but there are some special considerations to keep in mind.

Pay Attention to Tufts' Intellectual Bent

Tufts makes a point of using words like "playful" and "intellectual." These suggest a curiosity about the world that goes beyond wanting to attend a good school because it's a good school. Keep them in mind as you're writing— how can you demonstrate your own curiosity and interest in the world?

Remember That Tufts Is a Research University

You'll be interacting more with graduate students than you would in other settings . Not only will this give you a leg up in applying to grad school, but it will also grant you the opportunity to think more deeply than if you were only exposed to other undergrads.

Demonstrating an interest in learning from other students and participating in a learning community is a great way to show that you're interested in the unique experience of attending a research university.

Choose the Prompts That Are Right for You

Because Tufts has two different sets of prompts depending which school you'll be attending, be sure you select the right ones. Further, be sure you really maximize each prompt's potential— the rest of your application covers academics, so use your essay to showcase what really makes you stand out .

What's Next?

Before you get started on writing your essays, you'll want to know what kind of admission requirements Tufts has . Great essays are important, but you should also demonstrate academic success!

Plan to get the best scores possible on your standardized tests, too. Reading about ACT and GPA requirements ahead of time can help you plan your academic strategy, as can reading about SAT requirements . Use these guides to get a head start!

Want to write the perfect college application essay? Get professional help from PrepScholar.

Your dedicated PrepScholar Admissions counselor will craft your perfect college essay, from the ground up. We'll learn your background and interests, brainstorm essay topics, and walk you through the essay drafting process, step-by-step. At the end, you'll have a unique essay that you'll proudly submit to your top choice colleges.

Don't leave your college application to chance. Find out more about PrepScholar Admissions now :

Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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Current tufts students, inside admissions, a short guide to the tufts supplemental questions.

The personal statements that high schoolers write for their college applications are an incredible way of getting to know something unique, impactful, or otherwise important about them. We understand why you spend so much time writing these, especially since nearly every college requires, at the bare minimum, a personal statement in order to apply. And we here at Tufts certainly care a lot about your personal statements, don’t get us wrong! But our supplemental short-answer questions also play a role in the application reading process in terms of us getting to know more facets of your personality.

At Tufts, we require two responses: The first is to complete, in 100 words, the following sentence: “I am applying to Tufts because…”, and one other that is your choice from three prompts (which you can read here ). These are your chance to show us that you have done your research on who we are beyond a cursory Google search, and to illuminate something else about your experiences or the way you see the world. Tufts students are kind, collaborative, and intellectually curious. The best way to stand out in this section is to show us how you embody various aspects of these broad traits.

Don’t worry, I’ve got some examples below to help you better understand what I mean.

1. Why Tufts? Why not Tufts?

I could sit here for an hour and list off the reasons why you should apply to Tufts. To be fair, it’s my job, but still! Sometimes students approach me after information sessions and ask, “well, why wouldn’t I want to go to Tufts University?” You could honestly ask this question about nearly any highly selective college or university. They will all offer you a great education, access to resources and professors, copious student organizations, and will be located in a rural, urban, or suburban environment. I know that all of that sounds basic, but every day during reading season I see multiple responses that list those exact reasons as why they want to come to Tufts. This response is a space for you to really dive into what makes Tufts unique for you. Don’t just repeat basic facts you can find on our landing page or on a Wikipedia article. Yes, we have over 350 student organizations and you can easily make your own—but what’s one that really speaks to you? Is it our Leonard Carmichael Society and its focus on service? Or maybe our Eco Arts Club which brings a socially engaged, environmentally conscious, art practice to community activism? Sure, we have a 10 to 1 student/faculty ratio. But do a deeper dive into an academic interest of yours and find a course, department, or professor’s research group that stands out to you and let us know why it engages your intellectual curiosity. The best way to stand out here is to be specific, show us that extra research you did into how what Tufts offers is right for you specifically.

2. Wait There’s More? (Yes—For Tufts, at Least)

A second supplemental question might feel daunting—didn’t you just show us what you knew about Tufts? What more could we need from you? The answer to that question is a 200-250 word response on your choice of three prompts (unless you’re applying to the SMFA at Tufts in which case there is just one question, but the advice here still holds). This second question is designed for you to provide your application readers with another way of understanding who you are. Your personal statement is likely about some moment that is unique to you and shaped who you are as a human being (a boating trip with your grandfather, your path through a high stakes sports competition, a special project you started with friends or family, etc.). But that essay is a way for us to get to know you broadly. Remember, Tufts students are kind, collaborative, and intellectually playful, civically engaged, and globally minded. Will your personal statement be specifically designed to showcase all of that? Probably not! It may illuminate one or two aspects of your personality that align with those values, but we would never expect it to perfectly outline how you would be an ideal Tufts community member. Use this second supplemental short answer response to provide insight into how you embody a different one of these values. Just make sure it is something unique from your personal statement, so that we get that fully nuanced view of who you are. A copy-and-pasted personal statement, or even a supplemental essay that is about the same topic as your personal statement, won’t help your application stand out.

Phew! That is a lot of information about two short answer responses that you will be writing for your application to Tufts. In short, the best way to look at the writing that you provide for your college applications is as a set of responses designed for us to get to know you. Use each one strategically to highlight some aspect of your personality, your academic interests, and who you are as a community member. There’s nothing more disappointing than getting to the final essay and seeing recycled content from elsewhere in the application. Feel free to reach out to your regional representative if you have any questions—we’re here to help! And always have faith in yourself and in your writing. You’ve got this!

Tufts University Supplemental Essays 2022-2023

Tufts Supplemental Essays 2022-2023

If you’ve already started researching how to get into Tufts , stats like the The Tufts acceptance rate may make the Tufts application seem daunting. Getting familiar with each part of the Tufts application, including the Tufts supplemental essays ahead of the deadline can help you feel confident as you prepare for the admissions process. 

In your Tufts essays, you’ll highlight what makes you unique and why Tufts is the right place for you. Additionally, the Tufts essay prompts will intentionally push you to explore what Tufts provides its students. So, the more you know about the school, the stronger your Tufts essays will be. Also, the stronger your Tufts supplemental essays, the better your admissions odds will be.

Given the low Tufts acceptance rate, Tufts admissions can be incredibly competitive. This means you should do your homework so that your personality, passions , and goals shine through in each of your Tufts supplemental essays.

Tufts Essay: Quick Facts

• 1 (~150 word) essay: Why Tufts essay
• 1 (~250 word) essay: Choose from 3 prompts essay
• 1 (150 word) essay: Why SMFA at Tufts essay
• 1 (~250 word) essay: What ideas would you like to explore essay
• Tufts University Application: Students can submit their Tufts University application through the Common Application or the Coalition Application .
• Early Decision: November 1
• Early Decision 2: January 4
• Regular Decision: January 4
• Tufts Supplemental Essay Tip: Both essays are required by Tufts admissions, so we recommend answering all Tufts supplemental essays comprehensively and thoughtfully.

How many supplemental essays does Tufts require?

Tufts University requires a personal statement that you’ll write for the Common App or Coalition App as well as two school-specific essays .

This makes the Tufts supplemental essays are one of few opportunities to make your application stand out. Like any supplemental essay, your Tufts supplemental essays should demonstrate why the university is a good fit for your goals while also sharing your personal experiences.

When it comes to the Why Tufts essay, you’ll want to be as specific as possible in sharing why Tufts is the school for you. A popular rule of thumb is that if you can replace the name of the university in the essay and it still makes sense, your essay may not be specific enough. 

What are the Tufts Supplemental Essay requirements?

Tufts has two school-specific essays in the Common App. As you consider the Tufts supplemental essays, you’ll notice that while the Tufts essay prompts are different, both essentially ask you to introduce yourself to the Tufts admissions team.

Why Tufts essay

In the Why Tufts essay, you should highlight the research you’ve done on Tufts and the reasons why you’d hope to attend. Your essays should also highlight how your experiences and goals tie into what Tufts offers.

Schools like Tufts that require a why school essay look for students who are specifically passionate about attending Tufts. That means you should include specific details about Tufts, like their academic curriculum, campus culture, student extracurriculars , or research opportunities. Rather than just listing them, you’ll want to articulate why these features excite you. You should also discuss how you imagine them helping you reach your goals.

More about you essay

In the second Tufts supplement, you’ll share more about your interests, passions, and community. While there are multiple ways to approach each of the Tufts supplemental essays, remember to cover new information in each of your responses. The exception to this rule, however, is if you are covering a new aspect of a previously mentioned experience/activity.

Unlike the why Tufts essay, you’ll have your choice of three different prompts to respond to. Each prompt covers a slightly different area of your life and interests , so you’ll have to select a prompt and narrow down your topic before you can begin writing the second of your two Tufts supplemental essays.

Tufts Supplemental Essays #1 – Why Tufts Essay?

Which aspects of the tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application in short, “why tufts” (150 words).

Before you start approaching this Tufts essay, you should make sure you understand the key features of the school. Chartered in 1852, Tufts University is a research university with a low student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1. They also offer nearly 150 majors and minors . Tufts is located in Medford, Massachusetts and has a unique mascot— Jumbo the elephant. Unique traditions abound that make life at Tufts all the more exciting.

Famous Tufts alumni include Nobel Prize winner Roderick MacKinnon, singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman, Olympic figure skater Michelle Kwan, and the former prime minister of Greece, Kostas Karamanlis. It could be beneficial for your Tufts supplemental essays, especially the Why Tufts essay, to reflect on the university’s rich history and expansive offerings.

Highlight what makes Tufts right for you

The Tufts essay prompts let you channel your personality and reflect on the research you have done. Hopefully, when you put your list of colleges together, you asked yourself, Why Tufts? If not, now is the time to take a moment to seriously consider this question. In fact, to answer this prompt well, take a moment to consider why you want to attend college. Do you know what you want to study ? Do you have clear personal and professional goals that tie into your college education? Are there activities that you hope to continue or try during your undergraduate career?

Once you’ve thought about your answers to these questions, think about how they specifically translate to a school like Tufts. What does Tufts offer that no other school does? Why do you see yourself attending Tufts? Are there specific opportunities you hope to take advantage of during your time at Tufts? Or are there certain faculty or alumni whose work has inspired you?

There are many ways you might choose to answer the question “why Tufts,” and we understand that writing a why school essay is no easy task. Here are some tips to use and questions to ask yourself as you tackle your why Tufts essay.

Leverage your word count

To help your Tufts supplemental essays shine, be sure to leverage your word limit to your advantage. 150 words doesn’t give you a ton of space to be wordy or expansive in your why Tufts essay. So, one of your challenges will be to concisely explain why Tufts is the place for you.

Rather than listing every single reason you’re interested in Tufts, focus on just one or two things in your why Tufts essay.  If you’re having trouble pinning your ideas down, it can be helpful to start your brainstorm with two lists. Title one, “Why college?” and the other “Why Tufts?” 

Under the “college” list, write general goals for your college experience. This might include what you want to study, the experiences you hope to have, and the professional goals that you’d like to achieve after college. Under the “Why Tufts” list, write the specific things that drew you to Tufts. Stay away from general attributes like prestige and reputation, as you can find these things at many other schools.

Find overlap

Once your “Why Tufts” list is complete, look at both lists for parallels you can touch on in your why Tufts essay. For example, if you’re excited to find new friends and community in college and one of your personal goals is to advocate for civil rights, you can talk about how excited you are to join the student organization ACTION (Advancing Civic Thought In Our Nation) and help in their after school programs. You might also consider some unique opportunities, classes, or faculty that connect with your educational goals. For example, a student planning to study engineering might discuss Tufts’ focus on socially-conscious engineering in their why Tufts essay.

Consider the future

The best why Tufts essay will also consider a student’s future beyond Tufts. The student interested in socially-conscious engineering, for instance, may want to discuss how they hope to channel what they will learn to solve a problem in the world or contribute to a new field of study.

While you have to stick to a singular prompt for your why Tufts essay, this Tufts supplement still  gives you some flexibility. Perhaps you have been a leader in one of your extracurricular activities . How do you see yourself applying these experiences to a specific organization or opportunity at Tufts?

As the shorter of the two Tufts supplemental essays, your why Tufts essay is relatively brief. Don’t waste words when establishing the “why” in your “Why Tufts” essay. This is not the time to share your love of Medford or Boston at large—unless you can tie in a specific connection with Tufts. Instead, channel your excitement for Tufts’ location into a description of how you’d like to get involved in the local community through Tufts’ own offerings.

Resources from Tufts Admissions

If you’re still not sure how to craft your why Tufts essay, take a look at admissions ’ Tufts essays that worked. These examples can be valuable resources. Each of the nine Tufts essays that worked showcase student’s with different goals, academic interests, and approaches to the why Tufts essay. As you read each example, try to consider what aspects of their why Tufts essay really helps you imagine each student as part of Tufts’ campus community.

You can also check out why school essay examples from other top colleges, include Y ale and Barnard , for more inspiration.

Tufts Essay Reflection Questions:

• Do you share experiences or interests that you hope to explore further in college?
• Does your why Tufts essay provide information that enriches the rest of your application?
• Do you provide college-specific examples that address why Tufts?
• Is it clear that Tufts fits your ideal college experience?

Tufts Supplemental Essays #2- Choose One

Now we’d like to know a little more about you. please respond to one of the following three questions. (250 words):, a. it’s cool to love learning. what excites your intellectual curiosity, b. how have the environments or experiences of your upbringing – your family, home, neighborhood, or community – shaped the person you are today, c. where are you on your journey of engaging with or fighting for social justice .

Here, you have multiple Tufts supplemental essay prompts to choose from. But which essay prompt is the best choice? While no individual topic is automatically better than another, consider what you have already shared apart from your why Tufts essay. Also, keep in mind that your Tufts supplemental essays show your audience your writing ability and overall readiness for college.

Highlight new details

Try not to repeat material you have already shared elsewhere in your Tufts supplemental essays. However, there is an exception to this rule—you can share something new with your readers within a topic that you’ve already discussed.

For example, in our why Tufts essay overview, we described a student hoping to study engineering through the lens of social consciousness at Tufts. If they felt really passionately about this topic, they could expand what they wrote about in their why Tufts essay in the second of their Tufts supplemental essays.

That student could talk about how their understanding of social justice (the third Tufts supplement) has led them to ask bigger questions about engineering—specifically, why do some individuals have access to resources and others don’t? They may talk about how in learning about social justice, they have learned the importance of representation and diversity in fields like engineering .

Now that we’ve given you an idea of how your Tufts supplemental essays might play off of one another, it’s time to focus on your second Tufts essay. Let’s dive into the three prompts for the Tufts supplemental essays!

Tufts Essay: Option A

Let’s look at Option A for the Tufts supplemental essays. While you could use this prompt to describe your potential major, you could also reflect on another intellectual interest. No matter the topic, ask yourself how have you explored this subject in the classroom and beyond? With over 150 majors and minors available at Tufts along with many student organizations, you have plenty of options to explore different interests. You might tie your intellectual curiosity to a class, or even an organization or activity that you hope to experience at Tufts.

Not sure what you want to major in? Check out our article . In it, we walk through how to choose a major and how your choice can affect your college applications.

Avoid writing about generic interests

You may find your most passionate intellectual curiosity may not be related to your major, and that’s okay! However, you should avoid stating generic interests like reading or the news. Instead, you want to be as specific as possible in your Tufts supplemental essays. 

For example, you may discuss how you stumbled upon an old Dutch-to-English translation of your favorite children’s book, which sparked your interest in the Dutch language. Just like you did in your why Tufts essay, use this space to share how your passions evolved and why they matter to you. When reading your Tufts supplemental essays, admissions officers want to see that you’re a self-motivated learner who will bring your diverse interests and passions to the Tufts community.

Tufts Essay: Option B

Considering Option B for your second Tufts essay? Remember that your Tufts supplemental essays are for you to share where you have been, where you are, and where you hope to be.

To start your brainstorm , we recommend getting your ideas flowing with another set of lists. Similar to the why Tufts essay, create four lists—family, home, neighborhood, and community—and write big events and people that have shaped you in each.

While “family” and “home” may seem identical, they’re not. For example, you may want to talk about how your family’s immigration story has shaped who you are today. This is completely different from someone who wants to talk about how living in many different types of homes (apartments, single-family houses, and townhomes) shaped how they live with and interact with others. In other words, you’ll want to think outside of the box and share something personal to you and your story.

In each list, try to zoom in on one or two examples and expand on them. Think about how they have made an impact on you, how you think, or how you approach new situations. While it may seem intuitive to share gratitude towards people or places that have been most impactful on you, remember that you are the protagonist of your Tufts supplemental essays. You wouldn’t want the admissions team to learn more about your hero or community than they do about you!

Tufts Essay: Option C

Option C is probably the toughest of the Tufts essay prompts. Done incorrectly, this Tufts essay can be preachy or veer into vague, philosophical musings on social justice. To answer this Tufts prompt well, you should be specific.

In general, Tufts supplemental essays give you plenty of leeway to be creative. However, you should still give concrete examples wherever possible. For this essay, think about ways that you engaged with social justice in your community. Perhaps you have participated in discussions or events near you. Or, maybe you have educated yourself and others through books, articles, or conversations.

Whatever experiences you choose to highlight, make sure that your essay stays away from performative social justice. In other words, avoid mentioning how many likes your social justice-themed posts garnered, name-dropping prominent activists that you’ve met, and/or co-opting the stories of others.

• Do you focus on your own experiences instead of those of others?
• Does your response share what distinguishes you from other applicants?
• Does your draft use active voice instead of passive language?
• Do you focus on one or two experiences instead of sharing a laundry list?

Tufts Supplemental Essays – BFA & 5 year BFA + BA Applicants

Applicants to the BFA or 5-year combination BFA/BA program will complete a different set of Tufts supplemental essays . These essay prompts are similar to the why Tufts essay and option A of the Tufts supplemental essay prompts.

SMFA essay #1: Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? Why SMFA at Tufts? (100-150 words)

Smfa essay #2: art has the power to disrupt our preconceptions, shape public discourse, and imagine new ways of being in the world. what are the ideas you’d like to explore in your work (200-250 words).

As you can see, the prompts have similar word counts and topics they want applicants to cover in each essay. That means the tips and questions outlined above will still be helpful as you consider how to approach these prompts.

For the first BFA program Tufts essay, highlight why this program is the right fit for you. Like the first general Tufts supplemental essay, you’ll want to remain as specific as possible. Share details about why the Tufts BFA program is the right fit for you. 

In the second essay, highlight who you are as an artist and individual. Why do you want to make art? How do you see your art helping make the world a better place? What inspires and motivates you? Once again, the more specific you can be, the better. 

How to write Tufts Supplemental Essays: Five Easy Steps

Five steps for writing a tufts essay, #1- research.

Doing your own research will help you get familiar with Tufts and their application process (while hopefully getting you excited about the possibility of attending Tufts)! We recommend exploring the Discover Tufts page, where you’ll find information on Tufts academic schools, curriculum, and opportunities as well as campus life and student organizations. You’ll also find helpful links, like Tips for a Virtual Visit and tips for writing your essays . 

#2- Brainstorm

Even if you’re eager to jump into your first draft, remember brainstorming is one of the most helpful steps in the writing process. Use our suggested exercises to make lists, focus your ideas, and choose what to write about.

If you’re feeling stuck with writer’s block, that’s totally normal! Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be a work of art. Focus on just getting your ideas down in sentences so you have material to draw from for your final draft.

While getting your first draft down is an accomplishment, the editing process is where your essay will really start to take shape. Especially since you are working within such tight word limits, you’ll probably need to edit out portions of your first draft. Every sentence (and every word) should string together to tell your story, so make sure you edit for conciseness and clarity.

#5- Proofread

No essay draft can be finalized without a comprehensive spelling and grammar check. Before you submit your essay, try to finish your draft at least a week before the deadline. Then, you can take some time away from your essay before your final proofread . Better yet, ask a mentor or peer to take a second look at your essay to check for clarity and any errors you might have missed.

How important is my Tufts essay?

Your Tufts supplemental essays are a crucial part of your overall application. With over 31,000 students applying to Tufts University this past year, you should be sure to put your best foot forward in your Tufts supplemental essays. Even if you have outstanding grades and test scores, many of the other students applying will, too. Your Tufts essays are your opportunity to stand out from the crowd and make an impression on the admissions team.

That being said, try to stand out while also remaining true to yourself. Don’t feel pressured into feeling like you need to embellish your experiences or make them seem more important than they are. If they are truly important and valuable to you, they’ll be just as important and valuable to admissions. This application advice can get you started on your Tufts essays and help you figure out Why Tufts is the place for you. 

Wondering how you can find opportunities that are unique to Tufts University? Fortunately, Tufts also offers online open houses to help you get a glimpse of the greater community. Additionally, check out resources such as the Tufts YouTube channel . These resources can give you insider insight to make your Tufts supplemental essays shine. 

Tufts Admissions Requirements

Now that we’ve discussed the Tufts supplemental essay prompts, let’s look at the rest of your Tufts application. In order for your essays to be considered, you need to make sure you’ve successfully completed all of Tufts’ admissions requirements.

All Tufts applicants must submit:

• A completed Common Application or Coalition Application
• Completed Tufts supplemental essays
• High school transcript(s)
• Senior grades

No matter which application platform you choose to apply through, you’ll need to submit your Personal Statement, two letters of recommendation, and your extracurricular activities. If you’re not sure how your extracurriculars will be considered as part of your application, check out Tufts’ application checklist for more context on how extracurriculars are evaluated.

Tufts Portfolio

Students who are applying to the School of Arts and Sciences of the School of Engineering may choose to submit a Tufts portfolio, but this is optional. However, students applying to either the BFA or 5-year combination BFA/BA program are required to submit a Tufts portfolio along with their Tufts supplemental essays.

Make sure you check the requirements for your Tufts portfolio to ensure you submit everything necessary. Students can also request a personal portfolio review prior to officially submitting, which is a great opportunity to discuss any questions you have about your Tufts portfolio and the overall application process.

As a reminder, Tufts is a test-optional school, meaning applicants have the choice of whether to include SAT or ACT scores as part of their application. Also, Tufts admissions reviews applications holistically, so your scores will be considered within the context of your entire application.

Tufts Supplemental Essays—Final Thoughts

Your Tufts supplemental essays are an essential piece of your plan for how to get into Tufts. Both of your required essays, especially the Why Tufts essay, can help you stand out in the admissions process. Overall, your Tufts essays can be the difference between a good application and a great one.

Remember, grades and test scores are only two pieces of the application equation. Your Tufts supplemental essays should help your reader learn about what really makes you tick.  If you’re ever feeling stuck in the writing process, remind yourself that the Tufts essay prompts are not trying to stump you. Instead, each Tufts supplement can shed light on the passion and potential that you would bring to the Tufts community.

Start early

To submit the best Tufts supplemental essays you can, you should start drafting your Tufts essays early—a few months before applications are due. The Tufts supplemental essays are not especially long, but you will need time to revise and get another pair of eyes (or two) on each Tufts supplement.

Make sure to pay special attention to the why Tufts essay. Clearly articulating why Tufts is the place for you will form the foundation of a strong application. Then, use the second set of Tufts essay prompts to share your passions and experiences with the admissions team. Use strong, dynamic language to draw your reader into your Tufts supplement.

Tufts alumni interview

In addition to the Tufts supplemental essays, be sure to request your alumni interview once you have submitted your application. Although they are optional, interviews can add value to your overall candidate profile.

Wondering where to start? Check out some of these Tufts YouTube videos on Tufts supplemental essays .

Also, the Tufts Associate Director of Admissions, Lauren Wilkes, helps give students some tips on how to succeed in your interview. A strong interview and well-crafted Tufts supplemental essays can help you submit the best possible application to this great research university. Good luck!

This Guide to the 2022-2023 Tufts Supplemental Essays was written by Stefanie Tedards. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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Command Education Guide

How to write the tufts university essays, updated for 2023-2024.

Please complete the following statement: “I am applying to Tufts because…” (50-100 words)

Explanation:

This short essay is a classic ‘Why this school?’ essay. It should highlight your knowledge of the unique opportunities at Tufts, and your own special interests and perspectives. A great way to approach this essay is to do some intensive research on Tufts’ website in order to find academic programs, research opportunities, extracurricular activities and student groups, and unique aspects of student life that interest you. Focus on linking your past experiences and passions to your plans for making the most of your potential time at Tufts.

For example, if you’re a high school senior who is interested in global politics, involved in Model UN, and aspires to become a diplomat, you should refer to these specific aspects of your profile and write about the resources at Tufts that will help you reach your professional goals. You might mention how Tufts’ 1+4 Bridge Year Program will broaden your perspectives on global issues and service learning, or discuss how you could complement your International Relations major with Tufts’ Peace and Justice Studies minor. If you have any other special connections to Tufts–e.g. a campus visit and tour, a friend or sibling who attended Tufts and raved about any special features of its academic or student culture–these details may also find their way into your essay.

Applicants to the School of Arts & Sciences or the School of Engineering:

Please respond to one of the following three prompts in 200-250 words:

It’s cool to love learning. What excites your intellectual curiosity and why?

Tufts admissions committee is inviting you to “nerd out.” More specifically, this essay should allow the reader to actually sense your excitement for a specific subject or to understand a foundational academic experience that provided the spark for your continued studies in college. For the former, try to hone in on a particular unique interest within your intended field(s) of study. Instead of writing about how much you enjoy reading, for example, you can distinguish yourself from other prospective English majors by writing about your love of the 17th-century Metaphysical poets, the short story that turned you into an aspiring novelist, or how you noticed that the TV series Dickinson’s cinematography parallels the mood of some of Emily Dickinson’s poems. Alternatively, if you’ve had an educational experience that was particularly powerful–e.g. an immersive Mock Trial program, attending an intensive academic summer camp, conducting research in a lab–you could write about how the experience influenced you and shaped your passions and goals.

How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing – your family, home, neighborhood, or community – shaped the person you are today?

This prompt asks you to reflect on the world you come from and how your background has shaped your worldview. According to Tufts’ Dean of Admissions Lee Coffin, the admissions committee at Tufts hopes to “bring perspectives together that are different and push you to think about your own frame of reference.” Therefore, it’s important to think about and clearly express what your particular frame of reference is, and what you can bring to campus that no one else can. This may be related to a geographic identity, a religious community, a unique intersection of identities that you occupy, a family background, a place of work, a school you attend or have attended, or any other environment that has been meaningful to you. What are the life lessons you’ve gleaned from growing up in your particular neighborhood, or in your particular family? What are the most important communities you are a part of, and how have they shaped your values?

Using a specific example or two, tell us about a way that you contributed to building a collaborative and/or inclusive community.

The job of the Tufts admissions committee is to build an academic community, and in this example of what we call the “community” essay, they want to understand what kind of value-add you would be to that community. Because they are asking you for specific examples, this essay should take the form of an anecdote where you specifically describe a time when you helped bring people together for a common goal and/or found ways to unite people who were previously divided. A successful essay would demonstrate not only your abilities to work well with others but also shed some light on what you believe the value of collaboration or inclusivity to be. In brainstorming your essay, start by thinking through any time you were working towards something and were reliant on the work of others to get it done–you can’t collaborate or be inclusive if you’re all by yourself! What did that experience teach you about finding common ground with others or about the perspective of another individual or group of people?

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The Admissions Strategist

How to write the tufts university essays 2021-2022: the complete guide.

Tufts University is an elite, private research institution located near downtown Boston.

The school offers over 70 undergraduate majors and is well-known for its international relations and pre-med programs. Its student body prides itself on active citizenship, public service, and working toward addressing social justice issues.

Tuft’s acceptance rate (11%) and small total undergraduate enrollment (about 5,900 ) make it a highly selective school and put it in the running against many Ivy League schools . If you’re interested in applying, we’ve got you covered with this guide on how to answer Tuft’s essay questions.

Click above to watch a video on Tufts Supplemental Essays.

Tufts Supplemental Essay Requirements

Tufts accepts the Common App , so, before you begin these essays,it’s important to finish your main personal statement and activities list.

• Tuft’s writing supplement consists of two short essay responses
• The first is limited to 150 words, while the second allows you to pick from three prompts and is limited to 250 words.
• The essays you need to write depend on the schools to which you are applying, with different essays for each school.

Since the lengths of the essays are not very long, we will break them down below and give detailed advice on how to answer each.

First, let’s start with general advice to keep in mind while writing all three essays.

General Tips for the Tufts Supplemental Essays

In their writing portion, Tuft’s states:

“Think outside the box as you answer the following questions. Take a risk and go somewhere unexpected. Be serious if the moment calls for it but feel comfortable being playful if that suits you, too.”

What does this mean for applicants?

As with many selective universities, Tuft receives many applications from students with the highest qualifications, including competitive GPAs, excellent recommendation letters, and involvement in multiple outstanding extracurricular activities.

This means that they are using their writing supplement to get to know their prospective students and differentiate between applicants. They are seeking a connection to a unique character, voice, or student perspective . In order to capitalize on this, these are some things you should do for all responses:

• Skip general introductions and material. This part is especially important given the word limit.
• Delve into the heart of things right away. Include only relevant concepts that give a sense of your life, self, and character. In short, start and end with specifics. Leave out the general.
• Focus on one or two angles of your life. Do not overwhelm readers by trying to tell them your whole life story. Choose moments or anecdotes that will present unique facets of your personality.
• Be yourself. One of the major pitfalls is writing what you think an admission board wants to hear.
• Do not recap your résumé, activities list, or honors. They are looking to get a feel for you as an individual with your own unique curiosities, motivations, and hopes for the future.

Now that we have outlined the overarching ideas, let’s dive into the specifics of each essay.

Mandatory Supplemental Essay: Why Tufts?

Applicants to the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering, and 5-Year Tufts/NEC Combined Degree must answer this prompt. This is a common type of prompt which asks,

“Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? In short, ‘Why Tufts?’” 

If you are applying to the SMFA BFA in Studio Art program, you’ll see the following prompt:

“Which aspects of the Tufts undergraduate experience prompt your application? Why SMFA at Tufts?” 

Either way, 150 words is about two paragraphs, so concision and specificity are both key, no matter which prompt you get . To begin with, choose just a handful of aspects about Tufts that draw you to the school. Here are some ideas:

• Are you interested in a specific program, like engineering, international relations, or history?
• Is there an element of Tuft’s school culture that you’re particularly drawn to? For example, perhaps you’re drawn to the school’s quirky nature, intellectualism, or socially conscious education.
• Is there an extracurricular activity, organization, grant, fellowship, class, program, or professor that inspire your interest in Tufts?

Whatever you choose, it is important that you either have an actual, specific experience in mind to write about or a detailed knowledge of the particular aspect of Tufts that you state as your reason.

For example, if you choose “diversity” as your reason, make sure you mention specific student associations or clubs that engage in diversity, equity, inclusion work and why that excites you. Even better, use a real-life situation in your response, if it applies.

Last, tie your reason for choosing Tufts to an essential part of who you are as a person. This can be a value or belief you hold, a hope you have for the future, or a school subject that really excites you. You could write about:

• Your love of language, math, music, English, or anything else that you are enthused about.
• The importance of your identity as a sportsman, woman, person of color, or brother of two younger siblings.
• A specific vision you have for the future or bettering the world.

To answer the “Why Tufts” question in a well-thought-out manner, it’s important to be specific about the school while also letting them get to know more about you as a person. After all, your goal is to connect a specific aspect of Tufts to you or your personality.

Example Essay:

When reading this example, pay attention to how playful the writer is being. The essay is obviously focused on Tufts and why it is a good match, but it doesn’t take itself too seriously:

The undergraduate experience at Tufts is my ideal ice-cream sundae.  With an emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, I can mesh scoops of political science, community health, and biology, combining disparate perspectives to explore complex healthcare issues. Over this, I will pour indulgent caramel in the form of an internship in Washington, D.C., allowing me to immerse myself in a health policy research project. Next, comes the countless brownie bits of activities, like Tufts’ prestigious Mock Trial Team, the Sarabande Repertory Dance Ensemble, and Hillel.  No sundae is complete without a cherry on top. When I toured Tufts, I was amazed by my guide’s friendly interactions with every individual he encountered. Surrounded by passionate, supportive, and motivated individuals, I know Tufts is the manifestation of my perfect collaborative environment. This positive atmosphere embodies the maraschino cherry on the already overflowing ice-cream heap, ensuring my undergraduate experience satisfies the sweetest of cravings. 

While some might argue that this essay breaks the rule of only talking about a few ideas, it does not. The central theme is how Tufts is like an ice cream sundae, and the writer sticks to it throughout, despite fleetingly mentioning many other aspects of Tufts. Even then, the author still spends a large chunk of their time talking about their cherry: the one, standout thing that makes Tufts special to them.

The Second Tufts Supplemental Essay

Depending on what school you are thinking of applying to, there are a myriad of essay prompts you could get asked, although all of them have a 200-250 word limit. Applicants to the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering, or the 5-year Combined Degree BA/BS + B Music with New England Conservatory have three options to pick from:

It’s cool to love learning. What excites your intellectual curiosity? How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing – your family, home, neighborhood, or community – shaped the person you are today? Where are you on your journey of engaging with or fighting for social justice?

Applicants to the SMFA BFA in Studio Art or the 5-year Combined Degree BFA + BA/BS at SMFA/School of Arts and Sciences must submit an art portfolio. In addition, Tufts also has the following required prompt for the second essay:

• Art has the power to disrupt our preconceptions, shape public discourse, and imagine new ways of being in the world. What are the ideas you’d like to explore in your work?

Let’s go through each of these options one at a time, including why you might want to pick that particular essay over the others.

Tufts Supplemental Essay 2A: What Excites Your Intellectual Curiosity?

This is a really open-ended prompt. You could write about almost anything you want, so it is a good prompt to pick if you are looking to diversify your application . Keep in mind, Tufts is looking for something unexpected.

Don’t be afraid to choose an item, subject, or idea that seems common: much like a sundae, it isn’t normal to see in a college essay.

Consider this an opportunity to describe how your interests encompass more than just a major.  For example, if you’re not applying to a computer science major, you can discuss a coding project. If your application already indicates a strong interest in STEM subjects, consider writing about something you love, like poetry, theater, or sports. Here are some questions to get you started:

• What thing are people always shocked to learn about you?
• Look through your Tufts application thus far. What is important to you, yet missing from this application?
• When was the last time you taught yourself something, only to realize hours had passed while you were unaware?
• Do you have a dream creation or invention? Why? What inspires you to make it?

In writing about what excites you, make sure to talk about why they, or the process of creating them, is important to you.

• Do you create because you love the thinking process, or do you prefer having to critically solve problems on the spot?
• Do you like tweaking and modifying something until it’s perfect, or do you prefer the ideation process? 
• Or do you love creating because it allows you to show the world a little part of yourself?

Whatever your reason, make it personal and genuine . Irrespective of what makes you curious about the world, make sure it speaks to your application narrative.

You also want to make sure you structure this essay. A good essay outline could look like the following:

• What makes you excited about learning
• A brief discussion explaining your motivations and inspiration
• How this relates to your life, personal themes, challenges, struggles, or character

Above all, keep this related to you.

One of the reasons I like this essay so much is because, much like the previous essay, it takes a seemly boring idea and makes it interesting:

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I sit in soil pulling crabgrass and borage. I’ve been a farmer since sophomore year. The farm – managed by my school – is a one-acre plot more accurately described as a garden with chickens. I fall into a rhythm, plucking and setting tomatoes in the container, eating several here and there. I recall the awe of harvesting a giant sunflower and discovering ten potatoes growing in its roots. I think about jalapenos, and how scratches on their skin indicate the spiciness level. The satisfaction of eating a raw green-bean, the first piece of food I grew at the farm, was indescribable. I derive great pleasure from knowing friends and teachers also eat the food I grow; we donate the farm’s produce to our school’s dining hall and sell it at the local weekly farmer’s market. Although I initially joined the farm because I wanted to try something new, I quickly found that the work offers a balance with the intellectual material I study in the mornings. The farm connects education with experience, applying my classroom learning to a real setting. Being able to see the relevance of what I am studying piques my curiosity. I aspire to maintain this connection between education and experience throughout my life, looking for soil to cultivate, so I can see and understand more of the world around me.

Tufts Supplemental Essay 2B: What Has Shaped Who You Are Today?

This is the second prompt option available to people applying to the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering, or the 5-year Combined Degree BA/BS + B Music with New England Conservatory. To review, the prompt is:

How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing – your family, home, neighborhood, or community – shaped the person you are today?

This is a great option for people who have already written an essay about a community for another school, especially if you have a kicker of a story. If you have, don’t hesitate to recycle it, but think about the following questions when you do:

• How do the word lengths between the two essays compare?  Do I need to remove or add anything? If so, how can I make the essay still flow well?
• Is there anything in the original essay which made it specific to the other school? If so, how can I change it to relate to Tufts instead?
• What quality is the essay highlighting about me? Is this a quality Tufts is interested in?

If you haven’t written this essay for another college, this could still be a good choice, especially if you have another college on your application list that you know will ask for it. Whatever your reasons, here are some questions you can ask yourself when you’re brainstorming:

• If a time-traveling supervillain decided you were a threat to their plans, what one event in your life could they change to completely alter who you are?
• Is there a person in your life who has dramatically helped forge who you are today?
• Was, or is, some element of your life unusual compared to your peers?

Whatever you come up with, the most important element needs to be explaining how your experience made you… you. Even if your story includes other people, the focus needs to be your side of the story, no one else’s.

Here is an example of what a community-based essay might look like:

In Portland, opinions are liberally voiced. It’s similar to my current community in Houston, except rather than an abundance of Lizzie Fletcher stickers it’s “Come and Take It.” When I moved, I was bombarded by a completely foreign culture. By sophomore year, however, I realized that compromising myself to fit in was a mistake. I began vocally expressing my sentiments towards the world, and learned from my friends in turn. While I introduced my friends to thrift-shopping and wrote articles about more environmentally friendly methods of transportation, they took me to my first line-dance and helped me examine the other side of gun-control in `Agora Coffee House.’  When I was hurled into Texas, I was miserable. However, I quickly realized that I didn’t have to like Ed Sheeran to enjoy life. Learning to embrace and assess so many dissonant ideas has enabled me to grow into myself. I am more nonpartisan and able to truly listen to the other side. Now, whether it’s Texas or Oregon, Republican or Democrat, my life is a playlist of contradictions. In college, where everyone works on discovering “who they are” or what their place is in the world, I know I can provide not only diversity of thought, but educate people on how crucial it is to maintain an open-minded ideology towards the world.

One of the reasons this is a good essay is because it promotes a value that most colleges are looking for: diversity of thought. While written for Tufts, it is equally applicable to a number of other prompts, saving the writer time on other applications.

Tufts Supplemental Essay 2C: Social Justice Journey

This is the last prompt to choose from when applying to Tuft’s School of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering, or the 5-year Combined Degree BA/BS + B Music with New England Conservatory. This one reads:

Where are you on your journey of engaging with or fighting for social justice?

This is a great prompt to select if this is one of the areas you’re most passionate about. However, this can also be the most challenging of the three prompts for several reasons. The first is that you should not conflate social justice with volunteering.

• While they definitely overlap, it’s important to note that not all volunteering falls under the banner of social justice. For instance, volunteering at the local hospital, while admirable, probably doesn’t solve a social justice problem.
• In the same vein, fighting for social justice doesn’t require you to be a volunteer. If you get a job at a community center tutoring underprivileged children, this could count as fighting for social justice even though it’s paid.  

The next trap to avoid is making yourself sound like the savior of a particular group. While you deserve to be proud of your efforts to champion a cause, it’s important to also stay humble while writing about it. Being too effusive about yourself makes you appear arrogant, which isn’t the right tone, no matter the essay.

Last, don’t write about this topic if the only social justice you’re engaging in is minimal or common. For instance, you may have painted a school as a way to support everyone’s right to an education.

However, if it was a weekend project back in Freshman year, that does a poor job of communicating your commitment to social justice. In the same fashion, many people who apply to college have volunteered at their local food bank.

• This isn’t to say you can’t write about examples that are common or far in the past, but if you do, remember that you need to think of a spin to make your project stand out. 

If you decide to go with this topic, be sure to keep the focus on why you are fighting for a particular cause, what your goals are, and how you are working to achieve them. Be practical, but also be sure that a reader can tell how passionate you are.

While this is a rather abstract essay, closer to a poem than prose, keep in mind that Tufts asks for creativity in the essay responses:

There are mornings when I feel like it would be easier to pull my blue and green spotted duvet back over my head and stay in bed all day.  But I can’t.  Every day, I know that people, my people, are being unfairly maligned.  Sometimes it’s subtle. A resume passed over, or maybe just skimmed a little faster. Sometimes it’s not, like when my brother gets pulled over, simply for being a young, black male.  So, every day I try to take a stand. I sit in the front of the class, whenever I can. I’m always polite. Yes ma’am, no sir. My homework is pristine, always on time. At the end of the day, my greatest tool waits for me. A pen, a piece of paper. A voice. As the editor of my school’s newspaper, it is my privilege to speak diversity into my community. But it is also my load.  There are mornings when I feel like it would be easier to pull my blue and green spotted duvet back over my head and stay in bed all day.  But I can’t.  If I’m not using my voice, and helping others find theirs, then how can I claim to be loving those around me? If I am not listening to the silent cries for justice, then how can I claim to care for the oppressed?  I will always seek out the oppressed, and ask them what they see. I can do no other.

Tufts Supplemental Essay 3: Exploring Ideas Through Art

This last prompt is required for students who select that they are applying to the SMFA BFA in Studio Art or the 5-year Combined Degree BFA + BA/BS at SMFA/School of Arts and Sciences. Like the other three, it has a 200-250 word limit:

Art has the power to disrupt our preconceptions, shape public discourse, and imagine new ways of being in the world. What are the ideas you’d like to explore in your work? 

There are two main structures to this essay. Of course, you are not limited to using these approaches, but if you’re stuck they’re here to serve as a jumping-off platform for your brainstorming.

Approach 1:

• Explain the work you’d like to explore, either during your undergraduate years or afterward.
• How does this work relate to you?
• How does this work relate to your journey and personal themes?
• What are the methods you’d use to explain your work?

Approach 2:

• How will SMFA at Tufts help you accomplish this exploration?
• What are your career ambitions?
• What kind of impact do you want to have on your field?

Your idea can be esoteric or concrete, complex, or simple. Just make sure it relates to you.

Last, don’t get caught up in explaining the work itself. Instead, discuss why and how you’d explore it.

This essay does a great job of explaining the applicant’s relationship with art and how she thinks about it:

A teacher turns around to write an equation on the board and a sun pokes out from the collar of her shirt. A Starbucks barista hands me my drink, her hand adorned by a small music note. Every day, I am on a scavenger hunt to find women with tattoos. I’m intrigued by the quotes, dates, symbols, and abstract shapes. I’ve started to request informal interviews, as an excuse to talk with these diverse women whose individuality continually inspires me.  There is no school assignment, no teacher to give me a grade, and no deadline. Just me, exploring the art and stories behind the permanent transformations of personal landscapes. An artist educator told me that getting a tattoo “was like claiming a part of yourself and making it more visible and unavoidable.” A psychologist shared how she wishes that she could turn her tattoos “on or off to match different outfits and occasions.” I’ve realized how effectively tattoos showcase the complex relationship between the personal and the public. This project of mine has taught me so much about the art of storytelling and storytelling through art. I’ve strengthened relationships with people that had conventional roles in my life and also created friendships with unconventional characters. Most importantly, I’ve realized that with a willingness to explore a topic and accept not knowing where it will go, an idea can become a substantive reality.

Conclusion: Tufts Supplemental Essays

Year after year, Tufts upholds its reputation for having applicants write interesting essays.

So don’t be afraid to talk about how you want to affect change in small, specific ways or how the pursuit of knowledge is extremely important to you no matter where you are.

Whatever matters to you, show Tufts that these actions are genuinely important to you and are inspired by internal motivators rather than by wanting to get admitted to a school.

Before you submit your application, reread your material and make sure your responses present you as a well-rounded, multifaceted, and three-dimensional individual. If you need to tweak things to make yourself come alive and give yourself more personality, then do it.

More so than other schools, Tufts like their prospective students to feel fleshed out and relatable on paper.

Despite the short ideas and phrases, you can get a sense of the author and what they care about. Presumably, some of the details missing from this essay are fleshed out in places like their activities list or another essay.

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Admissions Blog

Application tips: essays.

Over the next few weeks, our office will be sharing advice on the various requirements of our application process. First up: essays!

______________________

The essay, although just a single component of your application, holds immense significance. It offers you the best opportunity to provide the admissions committee with a compelling response to the “Why?” behind your journey to join the Fletcher community. What drives your interest in becoming a part of Fletcher? Why did you choose your specific program? And why now?

To briefly summarize, all applicants are expected to address at least two essay prompts. The first prompt, mandatory for all applicants, is as follows:

Kindly elucidate your objectives for graduate study at Fletcher and for your professional trajectory. Share the facets of your personal, professional, and/or academic background that have equipped you for your chosen career path. Why is The Fletcher School the ideal institution for pursuing your academic goals and preparing for your professional aspirations? Furthermore, please explain your choice of the degree program you are applying for.

Subsequently, all applicants must craft a second essay by selecting one of three prompts. However, applicants to the MGA and PhD programs, as well as those following the Map Your Future pathway, are also required to address a third prompt. For the purposes of this post today, our advice primarily centers on the first essay.

It is crucial that your essay directly addresses the prompt, leaving the admissions committee with minimal queries about your suitability for the Fletcher community. To achieve this, write with clarity, conciseness, and an absence of grammatical errors.

In line with this, ensure you proofread your essay thoroughly. Consider printing it and reading it aloud, or using a writing assistant tool. Collaborating with trusted colleagues for editing is also a viable option. Allow yourself ample time for multiple drafts, as most errors emerge when rushed. Your initial draft will require refinement, which is perfectly fine, as the essay benefits from ample time to evolve before submission. Embrace the concept of drafting and letting your ideas mature before the final polish.

Remember that your resume already outlines your professional and academic journey. Consequently, avoid excessive recapitulation of information already present in your resume. It’s acceptable to acknowledge your prior experiences, but the most impactful essays delve deeper into how those experiences have shaped your decision to pursue an education at Fletcher.

Lastly, be authentic and aim to infuse a touch of enjoyment into your essay. This is one of the rare opportunities in your application where the admissions committee glimpses your personality (besides optional interviews, of course!). Keep in mind that there is no definitive “right answer” for these essays. We want to understand what truly excites you about global affairs and the Fletcher community. Given our multidisciplinary focus, there’s no such thing as a “typical” Fletcher student – individuality abounds.

I trust that this advice proves beneficial. We eagerly anticipate reviewing your application, especially your essays!

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How to Write the Tufts University Supplement Essays 2017-2018

Tufts is a private research university in Boston, Massachusetts. Located only 5 miles from the city hub of Boston, Tufts has the appeal of being a suburban campus with close urban proximity. With a total undergraduate enrollment of 5,290 and an acceptance rate of 14%, Tufts stands as one of the more selective universities. Tufts ranked #29 in U.S. News & World Report’s 2017 edition of Best National Universities and maintains a freshman retention rate of 97%, an indicator of student satisfaction at the school.

Although Tufts is known for its Engineering, Biological and Biomedical Sciences departments, students can choose from over 70 undergraduate majors. Tufts has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, and 67.5% of its classes have fewer than 20 students.

Tufts operations are supported by a $1.6 billion endowment, which helps it maintain an excellent array of study-abroad programs. It also offers a variety of campus services such as the Women’s Center (an institution that offers counseling and information on intersectional feminism, gender identity, and other gender-related issues), academic tutoring (on subject, writing, time-management, and oral communication), and health services (an on-campus health care site that offers walk-in appointments).

Read on to learn how to tackle the Tufts 2017-18 writing supplement.

Tufts University Supplemental Essay Prompts

The Tufts writing supplement consists of 3 required short-response questions. These questions are the perfect opportunity to show off your creative side and write an unconventional essay that conveys your personality through the tone of the writing. So let’s dive right in!

Which aspects of Tufts’ curriculum or undergraduate experience prompt your application? In short: ‘Why Tufts?’ (50–100 words)

In order to write an effective response, it is important to understand why Tufts University is asking this. Students typically apply to several colleges, so this question is meant to see how serious the applicant is about attending the school. When answering this question, you should be asking yourself, why would I rather attend Tufts as opposed to any other college ?

This mindset will help you discover unique reasons that make Tufts stand out from other universities. It is very important to be specific with this response. If you can replace the word Tufts with the name of another school, then it needs to be refined further to include Tufts-exclusive details.

For example, if there is a specific program that Tufts specializes in, such as the International Relations program, definitely mention that. The nature of the program itself does not have to be unique, but the descriptions about it have to provide unique insight that is not applicable to any other school. For instance, International Relations itself is not an exclusive course of study; in fact, Stanford, the University of California-Davis, and the University of Southern California all offer such a major in their undergraduate program.

However, only Tufts requires a capstone component which can be fulfilled through intensive seminars in one’s chosen concentration or directed research mentored by one of the professors. Therefore, when citing the International Relations program as one of Tuft’s allures, it is insufficient to mention its prestige; instead, discuss how the capstone project will allow you to develop your perspective on the tensions between world superpowers under the seasoned guidance of Professor Hitchner.

Because of the restrictive word limit, choose one aspect and describe it in an in-depth manner. The most important thing is to demonstrate how your personal strengths can contribute to that unique facet of Tufts . Doing so allows the admissions officers to understand that you are a good fit for the school, not just the other way around.

There is a Quaker saying: ‘Let your life speak.’ Describe the environment in which you were raised — your family, home, neighborhood, or community — and how it influenced the person you are today. (200–250 words)

College essays are designed to reveal aspects of your personality that the admissions committee would have no other way of knowing. This question is the perfect opportunity to tell the importance of your life story.

Note the distinction: You are telling the importance of your life story, not your actual life story! With a question like this, it is very easy to fall victim to a “tell all” approach and overwhelm the admissions committee with too much (and often irrelevant) information about your life.

In order to avoid this, follow these rules:

• Choose only one aspect of your life – Whether it’s your family or high school, make sure you only describe one element. This makes the essay more cohesive and easy-to-follow, hence allowing that one factor to be more memorable in the admissions officers’ mind.
• Connect your environment to how it influenced your future self – While your past environment may be interesting, it is not nearly as interesting as your future. Avoid describing your environment too much so that you do not have space to talk about how your present and future actions are a result of your surroundings’ nurture. The recommended distribution is to use 50-100 words to introduce your environment, and 150-200 to analyze how it influenced you today.
• Avoid clichés – Another common pitfall is to use cliché sentiments such as how you have become more mature because you have seen how hard your parents have worked. Though these sentiments may be true, admissions officers typically read a lot of essays centered around these “go-to” topics, and hence writing about them will not make you stand out. In order to answer this question successfully, the way you were influenced should be very specific. In other words, make sure the “I” in your response cannot be replaced with the name of another person and still makes sense.
• Show, Don’t Tell – The goal of this response is to see whether Tuft’s resources and community will have a positive impact on your attitude and approach towards work and life. The admissions officers will also use your analysis of how your chosen experience has impacted you to judge whether you as a person will learn and take advantage of Tufts social and academic opportunities. Remember, show, don’t tell. This means if you are claiming to have become a more self-aware citizen, mindful of your civic duty, show this by explaining your food-drive initiative at the local orphanage and your volunteer work with the 2016 presidential election. Illustrating by example is much more effective than simply stating that you take your civic duty seriously.

Now we’d like to know a little bit more about you. Please respond to one of the following six questions (200-250 words). Students applying to the School of Arts and Sciences or the School of Engineering should select from prompts A-E. Students applying to the SMFA at Tufts’ BFA program or the Five-Year BFA + BA/BS Combined Degree program must answer prompt F:

A) it’s cool to be smart. tell us about the subjects or ideas that excite your intellectual curiosity..

With this prompt, Tufts wants to know what motivates you to learn and whether that drive will enable you to further your knowledge at the school. Admissions officers also seek to understand which classes, professors, and co-curricular activities pique your interest. Avoid anecdotes that imply a desire to study the subject because of the associated external rewards, such as fame, prestige, or wealth. Try and think of a specific instance in which your intrinsic motivation to study the subject drove you to exceed a project’s standard criteria and perform extra work.

Perhaps you marveled at the idea that every molecule in our air, water, and body is governed by the intermolecular and intramolecular forces that we cannot feel. Hence, you wrote an addendum to your chemistry research paper specifically discussing the strength and importance of those forces in maintaining our daily life.

Or perhaps your grandparents recount the incessant lines of people who lined up to try to find work during the Great Depression every Christmas when you visit, and hence you are determined to study Economics to minimize the likelihood of such a catastrophe reoccurring. With your response, make sure to connect how you want to pursue this interest at Tufts and how your expertise in the subject would enhance other students’ academic experience.

B) In a time when we’re always plugged in (and sometimes tuned out), tell us about a time when you listened, truly listened, to a person or a cause. How did that moment change you?

This question can be particularly difficult because it is rare to experience a life-changing event from a single moment. This is why it is important not to focus on a single moment, but rather the lasting effect that it had on you and how your approach toward people, school, and your personal endeavors changed as a result of this encounter. Again, you don’t need to have witnessed a dramatic event.

Life-changing encounters can be subtle, and you may not even realize it was one when you experienced it. Perhaps it was a quote in Swann’s Way , or maybe it was a word of advice from your favorite teacher. You did not know when you read and heard those words that they would carry you through numerous trials. However, whenever you faced a challenge, those words reminded you of the infinite mental strength you possess, and thus enabled your ultimate success.

C) Celebrate the role of sports in your life.

Here, “sports” can have many meanings. You can take “sports” literally and talk about how your passion for basketball built you into a people-oriented, charismatic team leader. If you are a non-athlete, take a different approach. The prompt never dictated that you needed to have played the sport, so you can write about the miraculous recovery of an inspiring swimmer whom you saw in an interview on 60 Minutes , or how watching the Superbowl together with your dad has been an indelible bonding experience.

Whether you are assuming the perspective of a player or spectator, remember to narrate one memorable anecdote about your chosen sport in detail before elaborating on how witnessing/experiencing that incident has changed your outlook on life. The phrasing of “sports in your life” implies that the impact should be lasting, and it would be most suitable if you have had contact with sports for a long period prior to penning this essay. Do not choose this prompt if you have never given sports any thought or if you have absolutely no interest in it.

D) Whether you’ve built blanket forts or circuit boards, produced community theater or mixed-media art installations, tell us: What have you invented, engineered, created, or designed? Or what do you hope to?

Get creative with this prompt. Below are a couple of approaches you can take:

Talk About Your Future Career Plans

If you have a concrete idea of what you want to pursue in college and beyond, write down what exactly it is that you want to do, and some of your career goals. Just make sure to connect your plans to Tufts and explain how the classes, professors, mentors, connections, and organizations at Tufts will help you achieve your goal.

Talk About Your Past

This is a great chance to write about your past accomplishments, but make sure that they are focused around the central theme of innovation and convey a message about your ability to create. Try to reveal something about yourself through discussing the invention. For instance, if you built an indestructible robot that demolished all of its opponents in the statewide robot sumo-wrestling competition, emphasize how you troubleshooted its weaknesses, tried different materials, and positioned parts at different angles to ultimately construct the final successful model.

Do not spend all your time describing the specifics of the robot. You are not trying to sell them your invention; instead, you are selling yourself. In order to do so, ask yourself: What challenges or obstacles did you have to overcome? Did it involve teamwork? How did you guide your team when your team members started arguing and lost focus? What skills (hard or soft) did you employ to perfect your creation?

E) What makes you happy? Why?

This prompt provides the most intimate glimpse into an applicant. While there are many things that might make you happy, it is important to choose wisely. The most important thing to note is that the admissions committee is using this question to get a glimpse of your personality and see how you will change the Tufts atmosphere.

In order to answer this question, you need to understand the campus culture at Tufts. For example, what do Tufts students talk about in their conversations outside of the classrooms? At night, will you find more Tufts students in the library researching or chilling in their dorm rooms? What do Tufts students like to do in their spare time on the weekends? It is advantageous for you to reach out to current Tufts students through your contacts to gather their responses to the aforementioned types of questions.

While Tufts students take their work very seriously, they don’t take themselves too seriously. Therefore, feel free to crack an intellectual joke in your essay. Humor is important; if you are able to make an admissions officer in the middle of reading her 100th essay that day laugh (in a good way), then the writing will certainly work in your favor.

Still, remember to connect what makes you happy to yourself. While you might love your dog, the admissions committee wants to learn about YOU, not your dog’s favorite pastimes. So if reading makes you happy, explain how it relaxes your mind with stories of a plethora of fortunate and unfortunate human experiences without having to physically experience those extremes.

F) Artist Bruce Nauman once said: “One of the factors that still keeps me in the studio is that every so often, I have to more or less start all over.” Everyone deals with failure differently; for most artists, failure is an opportunity to start something new. Tell us about a time when you have failed and how that has influenced your art practice.

This is a very typical type of essay found on many college applications: the “response to failure.” The admissions committee asks this question to see how you recovered and used the incident as fuel to exponentially improve in your future/other ventures. The best approach to this essay is once again the anecdotal one. Choose a time in your life when you failed and spice up the story by narrating it with dialogue, onomatopoeia, and reasonable hyperbole, if applicable.

For example:

On my first day in the lab, I broke the entire set of beakers we were going to use.

The sentence above can be re-written as:

Five pairs of eyes behind safety goggles turned to glare at the pile of shattered glass at my feet. Realizing that I had single-handedly destroyed all the beakers we needed to use for today’s experiment, I sheepishly ducked my head and attempted to clean up the mess.

Of course, not every part of the story can be recounted with that level of detail given the word count. However, doing so at critical points makes the story more realistic and memorable to the admissions officers.

Ultimately, make sure to connect the failure to your later successes. Questions to consider include:

• How did destroying all the equipment on your first day as intern change the way you approach research in the lab?
• How has this change in attitude affected the results of your study?

The Bottom Line

As you write your Tufts supplemental essays, keep in mind that each question is designed so that a different aspect about yourself can be shared with the applications committee. If you get stuck, ask your friends and family what the most unique things about you are and then connect these memories or characteristics to your past accomplishments, future goals, and of course, future at Tufts University.

Best of luck, and happy writing!

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Navigating the Tufts University Essay Prompts (2023-24)

Embarking on the application journey to Tufts University requires more than just penning down your achievements and aspirations. Tufts seeks students who not only excel academically but also embody qualities such as interdisciplinary thinking, kindness, intellectual playfulness, and global awareness. In this guide, we’ll dissect each essay prompt, providing insights into their nuances and offering strategies to help you articulate your story effectively. Whether you’re applying to the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Engineering, 5-Year Tufts/NEC Combined Degree, or the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, these tips are tailored to help you craft compelling essays that resonate with Tufts’ distinctive values. Let’s delve into the prompts and discover how you can showcase your authentic self within the specified word limits.

Tufts University: A Distinctive Academic Landscape

Nestled in Medford, Massachusetts, Tufts University stands out as an institution that values intellectual curiosity, multidimensionality, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. As you embark on your journey to join the vibrant Tufts community, it’s crucial to understand the unique characteristics that define the university and make it an exceptional place for learning and personal growth. Here are some things about Tufts you should understand before you begin writing your Tufts University 2023-34 Supplemental Essays.

Interdisciplinary Excellence: Tufts prides itself on fostering interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to explore connections between diverse fields of study. The university believes that real-world challenges demand multifaceted solutions, and its academic programs reflect this philosophy. When addressing the essay prompts, consider how your interests span across different disciplines and how Tufts’ interdisciplinary approach aligns with your academic goals.

Multidimensional Community: Tufts students are often described as multidimensional individuals with a range of interests and talents. The university values students who bring a variety of perspectives and skills to campus, creating a dynamic and enriching environment. As you respond to the essay prompts, showcase the different facets of your personality, whether it’s your love for the arts, commitment to social causes, or a unique blend of academic passions.

Intellectual Playfulness: The concept of intellectual playfulness is woven into Tufts’ educational philosophy. The university encourages students to approach learning with curiosity and creativity, fostering an environment where intellectual exploration is both serious and enjoyable. In your essays, convey your genuine excitement for learning and how you plan to bring this sense of playfulness to Tufts, contributing to the lively academic atmosphere.

Kindness and Collaboration: Tufts places a strong emphasis on kindness and collaboration, recognizing the importance of creating a supportive community. As you reflect on your experiences and contributions in the essay prompts, highlight instances where your actions have demonstrated kindness and your ability to work collaboratively with others. Discuss how these qualities align with Tufts’ community values.

Civic Engagement and Global Mindedness: Tufts students are known for their civic engagement and global awareness. The university encourages students to think beyond the campus borders and actively participate in addressing global challenges. When addressing the prompts, share experiences that reflect your commitment to making a positive impact on society and how Tufts’ emphasis on civic engagement resonates with your values.

Understanding these key aspects of Tufts’ identity will provide you with a solid foundation for crafting essays that authentically align with the university’s values and showcase your potential contributions to the Tufts community.

Prompt 1: “I am applying to Tufts because…” (50-100 words)

Explanation:

  This prompt aims to understand why applicants specifically choose Tufts University. It encourages candidates to go beyond generic reasons and delve into personal motivations aligned with Tufts’ values.

How to Write:

When approaching this prompt, take a step back and ponder why Tufts is on your school list. While factors like location, size, and prestige matter, the key is to connect deeply with Tufts’ unique community. Tufts students are often described as interdisciplinary, multidimensional, intellectually playful, kind, collaborative, civically engaged, and globally minded. In just 100 words, focus on 2-3 specific reasons that resonate with you, tying them to your life, characteristics, and interests. Mention at least one extracurricular or social aspect that drew you to Tufts, along with an academic dimension. Reflect on experiences on Tufts’ campuses or interactions with students and faculty, avoiding generic mentions of campus tours and information sessions.

Prompt 2 Options:

Option A: “It’s cool to love learning. What excites your intellectual curiosity, and why?” (200-250 words)

  Explanation:

  This option explores the applicant’s passion for learning. It encourages candidates to narrate a specific interest, its origin, and why it captivates them intellectually.

Commence your essay with a compelling story or anecdote that reveals the genesis of your intellectual interest. Whether it’s a fascination with ancient Indian history, quantum physics, or any other topic, make it personal. Develop your narrative by providing context, explaining why this subject resonates with you intellectually, and how it connects to your experiences in India. Express the broader impact and significance of your chosen topic. Lastly, tie it back to Tufts by illustrating how the university’s ethos and offerings align with your intellectual pursuits, perhaps mentioning specific courses or opportunities.

Option B: “How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing shaped the person you are today?” (200-250 words)

  This option delves into the impact of an applicant’s upbringing on their identity. It encourages candidates to discuss specific cultural or familial influences.

Craft a vivid picture of your Indian upbringing, highlighting unique aspects such as cultural values, family traditions, or societal dynamics. Showcase how these experiences have profoundly shaped different facets of your identity, emphasizing the cultural context. Provide specific examples rooted in your Indian heritage, making it clear how these experiences have influenced your worldview, values, and character. Articulate the values gained from your Indian upbringing and connect them to Tufts’ ethos. Explain how these values position you as a valuable contributor to the diverse and inclusive Tufts community.

Option C: “Using a specific example or two, tell us about a way that you contributed to building a collaborative and/or inclusive community.” (200-250 words)

  This option focuses on an applicant’s contribution to community building. It encourages candidates to narrate a specific example, emphasizing their impact.

Choose a relevant community context, preferably rooted in your Indian experiences, and describe its initial state. Whether it’s a club, online forum, or a cultural group, set the scene with an anecdote showcasing the community’s natural state. Detail your specific contributions, employing anecdotes to illustrate your actions in fostering collaboration and inclusivity. Share your approach, whether it’s recruiting members, initiating discussions, or organising events. Highlight the positive changes resulting from your contributions, showcasing your ability to make a tangible and positive impact on a community. Connect this experience to your potential contributions at Tufts, emphasising your commitment to building collaborative and inclusive communities on campus.

Prompt 3:  SMFA (BFA or 5-Year BFA+BA/BS Combined Degree): “I am applying to SMFA at Tufts because…” (50-100 words)

This question is carefully tailored for applicants with a keen interest in the School of the Museum of Fine Arts (SMFA) at Tufts University. Its focus is on prompting candidates to articulate the reasons that underpin their decision to choose SMFA as the institution to nurture and shape their artistic endeavours.

When tackling this prompt, it is essential to spotlight how SMFA’s distinctive approach aligns seamlessly with your personal artistic goals. Whether your motivation stems from the desire for creative freedom to explore a spectrum of mediums or the unique opportunities presented by Tufts’ affiliation with a museum, your response should serve as a vivid portrayal of why SMFA stands out as the ideal environment for your artistic journey. Be specific and genuine in expressing how the characteristics of SMFA resonate with your aspirations and how this particular institution will contribute significantly to your artistic development.

Prompt 5: SMFA: “Art has the power to disrupt our preconceptions. What are the ideas you’d like to explore in your work?” (200-250 words)

This prompt is an invitation for artists to delve into the core themes and styles that define their creative expression. Tufts encourages applicants to approach this question with creativity and flexibility, urging them to be serious when the moment requires it and playful when it suits their artistic vision.

In responding to this prompt, begin by contemplating the recurring themes or styles that weave through your artistic creations. Unpack the significance behind these elements and delve into why they hold a central place in your creative expression. This sets the foundation for a nuanced and authentic exploration of your artistic identity.

Next, draw connections between these artistic themes and your personal experiences, values, and aspirations. Provide insights into how your life journey has influenced and shaped your artistic inclinations. This not only adds depth to your response but also allows the admissions committee to glimpse the authentic connection between your art and your identity.

When articulating the ideas you wish to explore in your work, be specific and articulate. Whether you aim to challenge societal norms, provoke thought on environmental issues, or explore the intersection of technology and humanity, make it clear why these ideas matter to you. Showcase the intellectual depth and emotional resonance behind your artistic choices.

Crucially, establish a link between your artistic aspirations and Tufts’ academic environment and resources. Highlight specific aspects of the SMFA program or Tufts University that will play a pivotal role in your artistic growth. Whether it’s unique courses, renowned faculty, or collaborative spaces, demonstrates how Tufts will provide the fertile ground for you to expand your creative horizons and disrupt preconceptions in your artwork. This connection to Tufts should be both genuine and well-researched, reinforcing your belief that Tufts is the perfect canvas for your artistic exploration and development.

Tips for Tufts University Essays (2023-24):

• Authenticity Matters: Be genuine and authentic in your responses. Tufts values students who are true to themselves, so don’t hesitate to share personal stories, experiences, and reflections.
• Reflect Tufts Values: Understand Tufts’ core values—interdisciplinary, multidimensional, intellectually playful, kind, collaborative, civically engaged, and globally minded. Align your responses with these values to showcase your fit within the Tufts community.
• Specificity is Key: Whether discussing your interest in Tufts or narrating experiences, be specific. Avoid generic statements and delve into concrete details that make your narrative vivid and memorable.
• Connect to Your Identity: If you’re an international applicant, such as from India, leverage your unique cultural background and experiences. Weave in examples and reflections that showcase how your identity enriches the Tufts community.
• Show, Don’t Just Tell: Use anecdotes and examples to illustrate your points. Whether discussing your intellectual curiosity, upbringing, or community contributions, paint a clear picture through storytelling.
• Tie Back to Tufts: In each response, explicitly connect your experiences and aspirations to Tufts. Showcase how Tufts provides the ideal environment for your academic and personal growth.
• Stay Within Word Limits: Adhere to the specified word limits. Craft concise yet impactful responses that effectively convey your message without exceeding the given constraints.
• Seek Feedback: Once you’ve drafted your essays, seek feedback from peers, teachers, or mentors. External perspectives can provide valuable insights and help you refine your narrative.
• Edit and Revise: Edit your essays for clarity, coherence, and grammar. Revise multiple times to ensure that each word serves a purpose and contributes to the overall strength of your response.
• Start Early: Give yourself ample time to brainstorm, write, and refine your essays. Starting early allows for thoughtful reflection and multiple rounds of revision, resulting in stronger, polished submissions.

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Tufts University 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 4

You Have: 

Tufts University 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations 

The Requirements:  1 essay of 100-150 words; 1 essay of 200-250 words.

Supplemental Essay Type: Why , Oddball

Think outside the box as you answer the following questions. Take a risk and go somewhere unexpected. Be serious if the moment calls for it, but feel comfortable being playful if that suits you, too. 

Applicants to the school of arts & sciences or the school of engineering:, please respond to one of the following three prompts in 200-250 words:, it’s cool to love learning. what excites your intellectual curiosity.

Tufts wants to accept intellectually curious applicants, so why not use this opportunity to rant and rave about your current obsession? Maybe you find marine life to be absolutely fascinating, and you’ve been reading up on the most dangerous creatures in the deep dark sea (and their preferred prey, of course). Or maybe you are super interested in Greek mythology and have been voraciously reading every book you can find on Poseidon and his many adventures. When was the last time you went down an internet rabbit hole trying to research something? When were you extremely motivated to solve a problem or create something new? What was the last fact or skill you learned outside of school that truly captured your imagination? The bottom line here is to discuss examples of what truly fascinates you, while also reflecting on what these examples say about your personality traits, interests, or learning style.

How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing – your family, home, neighborhood, or community – shaped the person you are today?

This is a classic community essay, through and through. Admissions wants to know what or who has made you into the person you are today. Where do you come from? What has shaped you as a person, and how has that made your perspective unique? What you focus on here can be reflective of larger cultural constructs or specific to you and only you. Tufts is looking to add diverse perspectives to the melting pot that is their student body. Is there anything you can teach your classmates about your hometown, traditions, culture, cuisine, orientation, identity, race, or ethnicity that they might not already know? Were you raised in a Muslim family in a small southern town? Do you identify as trans or queer? Were you adopted as a child? What has influenced your identity? What do you believe and how will your worldview bring something of value to the community at Tufts?

Using a specific example or two, tell us about a way that you contributed to building a collaborative and/or inclusive community.

First of all, let us remind you that your “community” can be just about anything, from your neighborhood to your family to your comedy troupe. Pick a community that means something to you and the diversity narrative will fall into place. Maybe your progressive church welcomes people of all sexualities and gender identities, and you developed a brand new youth group for queer and questioning teens. Perhaps your school is incredibly homogenous and isolated, and you helped your Spanish class organize Skype chats with a school in Guatemala to learn more about different parts of the world while developing your Spanish skills. No matter your starting point, be sure you tell a clear story with a beginning, middle, and end that demonstrates your commitment to creating inclusive environments. It might be tempting to pen a vivid description of your community and leave it at that, but the point of an essay like this is to tell a story about you and your contributions.

Applicants to the School of the Museum of Fine Arts (SMFA) at Tufts:

Please respond to the following prompt in 200-250 words:, art has the power to disrupt our preconceptions, shape public discourse, and imagine new ways of being in the world. what are the ideas you’d like to explore in your work   .

Tufts wants to know what kinds of ideas keep you up at night. Your response doesn’t need to have static answers that will stay with you, of course; your ideas will change over your evolving life as an artist, but now is the time to try to pin down a basic explanation of what your art means to you, what it addresses, and for bonus points: why you want to spend the rest of your life immersed in it. Ultimately, like with all written components of your application, it’s integral to be highly specific and use personal details to bring your essay to life. This isn’t the place to be modest or undersell yourself; present your work proudly and succinctly, and admissions is sure to be impressed. Inspiration can be infectious, so be passionate and take them on a journey into your mind.

In addition, we will ask all applicants to complete this sentence in 100 words or less:

“i am applying to tufts because…” .

Well, well, well… the admissions department wants to know why you hope to attend Tufts University next fall. What a surprise. Start by browsing the Tufts website and reminding yourself why this school is on your list to begin with! Does Tufts offer a specific major that’s hard to find at other institutions? Is there a professor you’d really like to learn from or a club you want to join? What do you have to offer Tufts’ community? Maybe your favorite classes are the ones in which you and your peers discuss literature and debate symbolism. Perhaps you are the punniest person you know and think this core part of your character will help you assimilate into Tufts’ playful culture smoothly. Whatever your reasoning may be, share it with admissions—and be concise! 

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Home — Application Essay — National Universities — Tufts University: Balance of Academic Excellence and Campus Life

Tufts University: Balance of Academic Excellence and Campus Life

• University: Tufts University

About this sample

Words: 199 |

Updated: Nov 30, 2023

Words: 199 | Pages: 1 | 1 min read

I am applying to Tufts University because it represents the perfect intersection of my academic and personal aspirations. In my "college search," I have encountered a diverse range of institutions, each with its own unique characteristics and offerings. Yet, Tufts stands out as the most balanced and appealing choice for several compelling reasons.

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First and foremost, Tufts' location is a key factor in my decision to apply. I appreciate the idea of a campus that is neither isolated from urban life nor engulfed by a bustling city. Tufts strikes the ideal compromise by being situated just a few subway stops away from one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in the world, Boston. This proximity offers the best of both worlds: access to the exciting opportunities and resources of a major city while providing a serene and peaceful campus environment atop a suburban hill. This balance aligns perfectly with my desire for a well-rounded college experience.

Furthermore, Tufts' commitment to academic excellence is a crucial factor in my decision. I am seeking a university that values intellectual rigor and places a strong emphasis on academic intensity. Tufts' competitive admission rates reflect its dedication to maintaining high academic standards, which is a testament to the quality of education it provides. I am drawn to a school that values academic achievement and promotes a culture of learning, and Tufts clearly embodies these ideals.

Another compelling reason for my choice is Tufts' outstanding research opportunities. The recently constructed library has garnered acclaim for its modern facilities and resources, which greatly enhance the research experience for students. As someone with a keen interest in economics, I appreciate Tufts' commitment to maintaining the excellence of every department, ensuring that no area of study falls below par. This commitment guarantees that I will have access to excellent resources and support in my chosen field of study.

Moreover, Tufts' emphasis on the humanities, particularly creative writing and literature, resonates with my academic interests. I am passionate about literature and the art of storytelling, and I am excited about the prospect of engaging with Tufts' renowned programs in these areas. Additionally, Tufts' strong focus on foreign languages and international studies aligns with my desire to broaden my horizons and gain a global perspective on various subjects.

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In summary, I am applying to Tufts because it represents a well-rounded and intellectually stimulating environment that caters to my academic and personal goals. Its location, academic excellence, research opportunities, and commitment to the humanities make it the ideal choice for me. I am excited about the prospect of becoming a part of the Tufts community and contributing to its vibrant academic and cultural life.

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• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free