🍦To BS or BA, that is the question! (Dec 8)

Good morning folks! Here’s the lineup today:

1. Link Lounge Refresh: Dual Enrollment resources and a new scholarship

2. Daily Deep Dive: Tufts University

3. Major Matchup: BS vs. BA

TRIVIA
📚 Khan Academy

The founder of Khan Academy and the man who got (or is getting) most of us through high school graduated from this East Coast university in 1998. Think you know the alumnus and the school? Find out at the bottom of today’s newsletter!

LINK LOUNGE
Dual Enrollment resources and a new scholarship

Accepted: A College Admissions Podcast - bi-weekly episodes so you can listen to tips on the go

Bright Horizons Admissions - read these blog posts to give you a leg up during the admissions process

(NEW) Pilot G2 Overachievers Grant - put your writing and community service to the test with this scholarship

(NEW) California Community Colleges Dual Enrollment - get ahead and take community college classes as a high school student

DAILY DEEP DIVE
Tufts University

What even is Tufts?

Tufts University is located in Medford, Massachusetts, a charming suburb just outside Boston, offering students a mix of cozy campus life and access to the vibrant city. Known for its collaborative and curious community, Tufts attracts students who are intellectually driven but also down-to-earth.

Popular majors include social sciences (23%), engineering (11%), computer science (10%), and interdisciplinary studies (11%), reflecting the school’s emphasis on crossing academic boundaries. The university is also globally minded, with standout programs like the Fletcher School influencing its undergrad culture.

Admissions are highly competitive, with a 10% acceptance rate, an average SAT of 1500, and an average ACT of 34, so applicants need strong academics and a spark of individuality. If you’re looking for a place to combine rigorous academics with creativity and collaboration, Tufts could be your perfect fit.

What Sets Tufts Apart?

Tufts thrives at the intersection of rigor and curiosity. Its students are deeply engaged learners who aren’t afraid to challenge norms, explore new perspectives, and dive headfirst into meaningful conversations. Tufts places a premium on creativity and open-mindedness, attracting students who are not only passionate about their fields but also willing to expand their horizons. Whether it's combining biology with art or politics with data science, interdisciplinary thinking is a hallmark of the Tufts experience.

The campus culture is as quirky and vibrant as its iconic mascot, Jumbo the elephant. From the colorful cannon that’s constantly being painted by students to an annual celebration of everything fried during “Tuftonia’s Day,” Tufts strikes a balance between lighthearted traditions and serious intellectual pursuits. It’s a place where academic ambition meets a genuine sense of community.

The Tufts Mindset

Students who thrive at Tufts often share these traits:

• Collaborative Nature: They value working with others to solve problems, whether in the classroom, on group projects, or through extracurricular activities.

• Global Perspective: With a strong focus on internationalism, including robust study-abroad opportunities and global research initiatives, Tufts students are citizens of the world.

• Curiosity and Creativity: Tufts students are tinkerers and dreamers who approach challenges with innovation and imagination.

• Social Awareness: A deep commitment to making a difference runs through the Tufts community, with many students engaging in activism, volunteering, and public service.

Opportunities that Define Tufts

1. Interdisciplinary Learning: Tufts encourages blending fields to create something entirely new. From its School of Engineering to the School of Arts and Sciences, students are supported in pursuing double majors, self-designed programs, and unique academic combinations.

2. Global Engagement: Tufts is known for fostering a global outlook, offering programs like the Institute for Global Leadership and opportunities to study abroad in nearly every corner of the world. The Fletcher School’s influence trickles down into undergrad life, especially for students interested in diplomacy, international relations, and global development.

3. Research Focus: With funding readily available for undergraduate research, students dive into hands-on projects across all disciplines, whether it’s engineering sustainable solutions, exploring health policy, or conducting experiments in cutting-edge science labs.

4. Proximity to Boston: Tufts’ location offers the best of both worlds—a charming campus in Medford and Somerville, paired with direct access to Boston. Students can easily tap into the city’s academic, cultural, and professional opportunities, from internships at world-class hospitals to exploring the arts scene.

5. Civic Engagement: Through programs like the Jonathan M. Tisch College of Civic Life, Tufts integrates service learning and public impact into the student experience. It’s not just about studying the world—it’s about making it better.

The Takeaway

Tufts is a university that celebrates individuality, creativity, and intellectual curiosity. If you’re looking for a place to pursue bold ideas, embrace diverse perspectives, and prepare to make an impact globally, Tufts might just feel like home. It’s not just about fitting into the Jumbo community—it’s about standing out while collaborating, innovating, and learning alongside equally driven peers. At Tufts, the question isn’t just What will you study? but also What will you create, challenge, and change?

INFO ZONE
ICYMI: New ways to get in touch with Brown and Dartmouth!

Here’s some upcoming school virtual information sessions. These are great opportunities to learn more about school’s programs to determine if the school is a right fit for you. It’s also great to learn more about the school’s vibe and possibly what admissions officers are looking for. All the times listed are below are already converted into Pacific.

Email a Current Dartmouth Student - direct contact info for a current Dartmouth student; any time and any day

Brown University Pre-Recorded Info Sessions - any time and any day

UChicago Virtual Campus Tour - Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 12:00 PM

(NEW) Q&A with Case Western students - Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 4:00 PM until 5:00 PM

Rice Virtual Admission Information Session - Wednesday, December 11, 2024 at 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM

MAJOR MATCHUP
To BS or BA, that is the question.

When it comes to choosing a degree, many students find themselves pondering one key question: BS or BA? Let’s break it down and help you figure out which might be the better fit for you!

📚 The Basics

• A Bachelor of Arts (BA) is all about flexibility. It usually includes a broader range of classes, with a strong focus on the liberal arts and humanities. Think literature, history, or philosophy alongside your major.

• On the other hand, a Bachelor of Science (BS) dives deeper into technical and quantitative aspects. If you’re more of a “give me the numbers” kind of person, the BS is likely your match—it’s rigorous and focused.

🔍 Focus of Study

• The BA emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking. It’s perfect for students who enjoy exploring connections between different fields or those who want more elective options to mix things up.

• The BS, in contrast, prioritizes technical expertise and practical application. You’ll often encounter more math, science, and lab work in your coursework.

🎓 Careers & Goals

• If you’re aiming for a career that values broad-based skills—like law, communications, or business—the BA can set you up beautifully.

• For tech-driven or specialized fields—engineering, data science, or medicine—the BS provides a more targeted foundation to dive straight in.

TRIVIA ANSWER
Looking for the answer to our fun trivia question up at the top?

Answer: Sal Khan, MIT

DAILY DEADLINE UPDATES
Take that break but mind your deadlines!

In the Daily Deadlines section, we will keep you updated on upcoming deadlines in the college admissions world. Remember to not procrastinate and stay ahead of these deadlines!

Most ED/REA Decisions: December 15th
Most RD Deadlines: January 1st - 6th

THE ARCHIVE
Looking for past mailings?

You can view all our previous posts at our website at https://scholarscoops.beehiiv.com

IDEAS COME FROM EVERYWHERE
Have an idea for the newsletter?

Is there a question you’ve been dying to have answered related to college admissions? Or, is there something just nagging you about Scholar Scoops that you want to see fixed soon? We want to hear from you. You can submit feedback at https://forms.gle/7Rj2eBCiauEc5oNV8. Thank you so much!