Making friends at Tufts University

Tufts is smaller than the big Boston universities, and that is its advantage. You will see the same people repeatedly, and the campus has a strong sense of community. The challenge is that it is not in the center of Boston. The social life is more campus-focused, and you have to make a little more effort to connect with the city. ## Live in the campus bubble first The Hill is where most of the social life happens. The dorms, the dining halls, the campus center, and the quad are the natural meeting points. The first semester is the time to become a familiar face on campus. Go to the orientation events, the dorm activities, and the campus-wide traditions. ## Use Davis Square and Somerville Davis Square is the closest off-campus social hub. It has restaurants, coffee shops, music venues, and the Somerville Theatre. The people who are happiest at Tufts often have one or two weekly routines in Davis Square or Somerville. The T connects you to Boston, but you do not need to leave campus every night to have a social life. ## Join one group with a real identity Tufts has strong clubs and organizations, especially in the arts, politics, and social justice. The Experimental College classes, student-run organizations, and community service groups are also great for making friends. Because the campus is small, you can become known quickly in one or two communities. ## Athletics and outdoor life Club sports, intramurals, and outdoor programs are huge at Tufts. The Prez Lawn, the athletic fields, and the nearby Middlesex Fells are popular. A running group, a hiking club, or a casual sports team can become the core of your social life. ## Your first month plan - **Week 1:** Meet your floormates and go to every orientation event that does not conflict with sleep. - **Week 2:** Explore Davis Square and find one café or restaurant you want to return to. - **Week 3:** Join one club, sports team, or volunteer group with a weekly schedule. - **Week 4:** Organize a group outing to Davis Square or a walk in Somerville. ## Common questions - **Is Tufts a campus school or a city school?** It is a campus school with easy access to Boston and Somerville. - **What is the social scene like?** It is close-knit and community-oriented. Parties happen, but the strongest friendships often form through shared activities. - **What if I do not have a car?** You do not need one. The T and campus shuttles cover most needs, and Davis Square is walkable. - **How do I meet people in my major?** Department events, study groups, and major-specific clubs are the best ways. - **Is it easy to make friends as a transfer student?** Yes, because the campus is small enough that you will see the same people often. Joining one organization helps a lot.