Welcome Class of 2030
Welcome to the herd! We are incredibly excited to welcome you to the Jumbo family. I know exactly how it feels to receive that admission letter from one of the best universities in the world. Your admission to Tufts was not by chance, the Jumbo spirit is already with you. Walk with me as I recount my first two weeks at Tufts.
On the night of December 15th at 2 a.m., I received my admission letter to Tufts. That night was unlike any other. I was extremely nervous. I knew I had what it took to be admitted, but I was still anxious because nothing this big had ever happened in my life; especially the idea of moving to a different country to study. I opened the email from Tufts and, oh my… “Congratulations!” I broke down. My hands started shaking, and I was filled with disbelief. I saw my life flash before me, like reels of my future. Tears flowed down my face as I stood by my window, picturing my new life. That was the beginning of it all.
Fast forward a few months later, and I boarded my first-ever flight to the U.S. (I mean, what a trip for your first flight!). I arrived about two weeks early to attend the Civic Semester pre-orientation program. I landed at Logan International Airport, and that’s where my journey truly began. A Civic Semester peer leader picked me up, (now she is one of my close friends) and showed me to my dorm. I spent my first two weeks in Harleston Hall.
I adjusted quickly to most things, except the language. You might wonder why, since English is a national language in Kenya. I think it was the accent. I could understand everything my friends said, but sometimes they couldn’t understand me, and I had to repeat myself. I didn’t mind; it became a great way to improve my communication. Back home, I mostly spoke Swahili and wasn’t used to speaking English every day.
Within just two weeks, I met so many people. A friend took us to Chinatown to enjoy some amazing Chinese cuisine. I loved introducing myself and sharing a fun fact; even though I didn’t really have one at the time. So I said, “I love helping cancer patients.” It didn’t take long for me to realize that I was doing just fine, even though I thought I would miss home deeply. My friends were so caring and constantly asked if I missed home. I did, but I was okay; I was used to living away from home.
I also completely changed my wardrobe when I arrived. I had packed for much colder weather, but it was still hot and summery. I found myself wearing shorts, T-shirts, slides, and socks; and I loved it.
The final week before leaving for Thailand for my Civic Semester included one of the Tufts pre-orientation program that are available for all first-year students. I did the Building Engagement and Access for Students at Tufts (BEAST) program, and honestly, it was the best. I met many of the friends I still have today, and it made me truly appreciate the value of Tufts’ different pre-orientation programs.
I am so proud to be a Jumbo. I wear that logo in my heart with passion, and I know that one day, I will look back and recount these days with gratitude.