If I told a younger version of myself that I would end up with a double major during my undergrad I most likely would have been bewildered at the idea. At the present day however, I cannot imagine my college experience any differently and will be proud to receive a Bachelors of Arts and Bachelor of Science degree upon graduation.
In entering Tufts my freshman year, I had little idea what I actually wanted to pursue in college but as a result of Tufts well-rounded distribution requirements I was exposed to topics and fields of study that I otherwise may have never considered.
Now, as I enter the Spring semester of my third year here at Tufts I look back and reminisce on those first classes I took here at Tufts my freshman year and how they’ve undoubtedly shaped my intellectual curiosities and career aspirations. I took a large variety of classes from General Biology, to Spanish 4, to history classes and more, each proving a stepping stone in my decision to pursue two majors at Tufts. I’ve always enjoyed all subjects throughout my time in school but had a general idea of focusing my academic sights on the sciences over humanities. My freshman year, I took Introduction to Community Health which allowed me to dive deeper into the social injustices existing in our society today preventing access to equitable quality health care. This led to my declaration of a Community Health (CH) Major my sophomore year. I was welcomed into the incredible supportive group that exists among the Community Health department, meeting countless mentors in students and faculty alike. Eventually as I enrolled in various seminars to fulfill my major requirements, I came to realize my interest in psychology especially after completing a research project of my own design surrounding mental health resources for disadvantaged populations.
This subsequently led to my declaring a second major in Biopsychology. I have since completed a wide array of psychology courses such as a seminar titled: Emotions, as well as Brain & Behavior, a class focused on the physiology behind human behaviors and feelings. I feel that the classes I’ve been fortunate to take in both the Biopsych and Community Health realms have given me the gift of an incredible well-rounded education and enhanced perspective. Being on the pre-med track, the knowledge I have gained through both my major disciplines will surely have a lasting impact and influence in my future pursuits. I have gained countless resources as a result of being a community member of multiple departments including having access to two academic advisors, accessible and influential faculties composed of both professors and researchers, and more. As I receive guidance surrounding my professional development I am able to consult the Biology, Psychology, and Community Health department as I search for opportunities to have summer internships, conduct research, and more. Tufts has shown me that not only is double majoring entirely feasible given the strong academic support I’ve received but it has truly been a gift. I can confidently say I cannot imagine not studying these two disciplines and remain ever grateful for the holistic education I’ve received as a result.