Tufts Blogs

Before I arrived at Tufts, I had heard wonderful things about Fletcher, the Tufts’ renowned graduate school of global affairs. During my time here, I attended several Fletcher seminars, and I was captivated by the rich discussions and insights. I wondered if undergraduates could enroll in a Fletcher class—and I’m thrilled to share that they can, and the experience is incredibly rewarding!

I am currently taking a half-semester course at Fletcher to deepen my understanding of economic development, building on the knowledge I’d gained from my Economics major. This opportunity is allowing me to explore a meaningful area of interest and enriches my overall academic experience at Tufts. Through a cross-registration process, I joined a class called Inclusive Finance for Low-Income Households and Businesses which is taking place in the second half of the Fall semester.

This course has opened my eyes to the financial barriers that low-income communities face around the world and how they vary. We explore the development of inclusive finance, starting from its roots in microcredit to the impact of digital technologies today. The curriculum helps us understand the practical applications of financial services and the many stakeholders involved, including policymakers, NGOs, and private companies.

A highlight of the course is its focus on "financial health," which goes beyond traditional measures to assess the real impact of financial services on people’s lives. This framework allows us to look at financial inclusion holistically. Through group discussions, real-world case studies, and team presentations, we are encouraged to think critically and consider different perspectives. Professor Kimberly Wilson curates readings that prompt engaging discussions, where we can examine complex topics and share our insights.

For any prospective students curious about cross-registering at Fletcher, I’d recommend doing some research on Tufts’ graduate courses to see what might align with your interests. The registration process is straightforward—usually just filling out a few forms and contacting the instructor to see if there is availability and potential for an undergrad to join the class.

Overall, this experience has been incredibly enriching. If you’re interested in global affairs, economic development, or exploring new areas, I highly recommend looking into Fletcher courses. They offer a valuable opportunity to learn from experienced faculty, engage with real-world issues, and gain perspectives beyond the typical undergraduate classroom. Taking this class has reaffirmed why I chose Tufts and shown me just how many doors are open for Tufts students.