This past semester at Tufts University was filled with new experiences and opportunities. It was my first semester living in an off-campus apartment, in which I was met with both challenges and positives. I really enjoyed living in an apartment with nine of my closest friends from college, hosting parties, dinners, and more with our newfound independence. During the semester I had an opportunity to continue interning at the United Nations Association of Greater Boston as I did last Spring. My work consisted of creating speaker series events based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) . My supervisor and I were able to work together for a few months, culminating in an event regarding SDG 12: Responsible Consumption & Production. The internship was a great learning opportunity that allowed me to apply my International Relations knowledge. With respect to my classes this semester, I really enjoyed my International Economics course. I was eager to attend class every week and found the connection between macroeconomics and current events fascinating, learning about topics such as The Gold Standard, The Great Depression, and The Financial Crisis of 08-09. Furthermore, I was able to apply this information to another class titled “History of Consumption” that discussed a lot of modern day issues tied to consumerism and financial institutions. It was a great final semester at Tufts before I study abroad in Spain this upcoming semester. I am excited to learn more about Spanish history and culture and plan to take a few art classes, studying great Spanish artists to really envelop myself in everything the country has to offer. I am so thankful for MVYouth’s generosity, as they continue to help make my dreams come true. Thank you so much!
Brooke Crocker - Tufts University
This past fall semester, I declared my major as International Relations with a concentration in International Economics and a minor in Entrepreneurship! I was able to delve deeper into my studies in these fields by taking classes such as “Human Rights in Cultural Context,” and “Intermediate Microeconomics.” Additionally, I was able to take a Spanish class centered around the Spanish Civil War and the Francisco Franco dictatorship. This was my favorite class this semester, as I was able to combine my love of studying Spanish with my love of History. In this class I was able to create my own presentation, focusing on the similarities and differences between the dictatorship in Spain and the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet in Chile. I am looking forward to presenting my findings and research to professors and fellow students in a Spanish Symposium in the Spring.
This semester I really wanted to take advantage of Tufts’ location in the greater Boston area and explore the city more. I spent more time this semester exploring areas such as Beacon Hill, the North End, and Seaport with friends. My love for Boston and the surrounding area grew, as I learned more about the city and all it has to offer. Additionally, I am continuing to participate in extracurriculars such as Water Polo and “Women in International Relations.” I am hoping to explore more clubs and activities, such as “Tufts Mountain Club” in the upcoming semester. I also made several plans for the upcoming year, including signing a lease for an apartment with my friends and making plans to study abroad in Spain in Spring 2024. Without MVYouth all of these experiences and plans would not be possible, and I am so grateful. Thank you so much!
Brooke Crocker - Tufts University
My first semester at Tufts University was challenging, yet amazing. I am extremely grateful we were able to be on campus for my first semester, as it allowed me to fully enjoy both my classes and the new friendships I made. This semester I was able to take four classes, which allowed me to explore my interests, including Principles of Economics, Introduction to International Relations, Spanish 4, and Philosophy 2.
One of the main reasons I chose Tufts was because of its International Relations program, so I was very excited to be able to explore that field during my first semester. Intro to IR allowed me to learn about key international theories and the relations between several countries, such as the US and China. The dialogues between the students and professors which occurred fueled my love for International Relations, and I look forward to taking more classes in that field in the future. In terms of my other classes, I was able to learn so much pertinent information, which I feel can really be applied to so many aspects of life.
With regard to extracurriculars, this semester I was able to join both the Period Club and Women in IR. In the Period Club my fellow students and I worked to address issues, such as the Pink Tax, and helped to give greater access to menstrual products. Additionally, we attempted to educate the larger community about the menstrual cycle. Within Women in IR, I was able to connect with several upperclassmen who are just as passionate about International Relations as I am, and I even gained a mentor.
For next semester, I look forward to taking new classes, which will continue to explore my interests and make more connections with both students and faculty. I also hope to become more involved in the Period Club and Women in IR. Without MVYouth, this incredibly rewarding semester would not have occurred, and I am immensely grateful for the generosity and support of the donors and the organization.