International students face challenges in bringing diversity to Tufts

Fernandez mentioned several aspects of an open and diverse American society that he plans on bringing back with him to Spain.

“Here, I’ve met people from almost all over the world,” he said. “I didn’t know that Tufts was such an accepting university for the homosexual and bisexual and LGBT movement ... now I know a bunch of sexually diverse people, and I understand their problems way better, and I support them.”

Some, however, see room for improvement. Stevens thinks the Tufts administration could be more aware and proactive concerning the individual needs of international students.

“There are some areas where international students are impacted more severely — there could be more sensitivity to their needs. They are so far from home and need help with the housing system and how to use their own voices for change,” she said. “It’s up to the Tufts administration to be sensitive. It’s up to faculty to be aware of international students in their classes.”

Pollydore celebrates the level of national — as well as racial, socioeconomic and ethnic — diversity that Tufts has attained so far. But she thinks that it can still be improved.

“I do feel like there’s more to be done, with regards to diversity, in a way that makes people more aware, excited and interested,” she said. “People are, but I feel that they could be more so.”