I have participated in several precollege summer programs, yet none have left an impression quite like Tufts Summer Pre-College Program. While similar to most precollege programs, I anticipated the usual routine of sitting in classrooms, taking notes, completing numerous homework assignments, and adhering to a strict schedule. However, my experience at Tufts shattered these preconceived notions, offering a truly enjoyable experience. Contrary to my expectations, Tufts Summer Pre-College Program was far from the stereotypical college lecture setup depicted in movies.
Rather than sitting through monotonous lectures, my classes were engaging discussions where everyone could freely express their thoughts and opinions in a non-judgmental atmosphere. These discussions encompassed a wide variety of topics, ranging from free will to the death penalty. The free flowing approach to class activities further emphasizes the distinct classroom culture. In my film and philosophy class, for example, we went on a field trip to the movie theaters and watched the new Barbie movie. The following class we delved into the philosophical significance of this seemingly lighthearted movie, revealing the deeper meaning of Barbie and its connections to movies we previously watched, like The Matrix and 2001. This field trip truly showcases the program's fun nature and open minded attitude, while still maintaining an academic undertone.
Furthermore, my experience on Tufts campus was amazing and defied my predictions. Since the majority of my classes were in the evening, I enjoyed the liberty of crafting my own schedule. This freedom allowed me to explore Boston and Davis Square, as well as get a genuine taste of the college experience. I was able to go out to dinner and catch a movie with my friends, which played a pivotal role in cultivating invaluable friendships. Although the Tufts Summer Pre-College Program was nothing like what I had expected, I am immensely grateful for that. The program's free flowing nature enabled me to discover amazing connections with both my professors and friends, while honing my ability to think critically about a diverse range of subjects. I could not imagine a better way to spend six weeks of my summer!