Jump from religious high school to unaffiliated college proves easy for most students
February 10When freshmen hike up the Hill for the first time as newly matriculated Jumbos, they sometimes leave behind ties from religious high schools or communities in their hometowns. Although originally founded by Unitarian Universalists, Tufts prides itself on being a non-denominational institution and encourages students of all faiths to practice their religions. Thus the number of students from religious or parochial backgrounds is significant. According to Lee Coffin, dean of undergraduate admissions, approximately five to seven percent of entering freshmen graduated from a high school with a religious affiliation. And many more students practiced a religion to some extent in their home community. Though the shock of this transition is likely trying for some, many religious students on the Hill have found it to be a smooth one. Coffin explained that some of these students are already used to mixing with peers who do not share their religious beliefs. "We see many non-Catholics — even Jews — in Catholic schools and a variety of religious backgrounds at the other types of religious schools," he said. Often religious organizations on campus step up to provide religious support and a group of friends to ease the transition farther. Students from Jewish backgrounds may find practicing their religion on the Hill particularly straightforward with the Granoff Family Hillel Center and Chabad House. According to its description in The Navigator: Guide to Student Organizations, Hillel is the second most popular organization on campus. Hillel offers Jumbos kosher meals, retreats and opportunities to participate in community outreach initiatives, as well as easy access to guidance from Hillel's religious leader, Rabbi Summit. Although freshman Ryan Clapp attended a public, non-denominational high school, he enjoys taking advantage of opportunities provided by the Hillel Center. "Hillel offered me the chance to go on the [Taglit-Birthright] Israel trip this winter break and feel connected to Judaism in a way I hadn't really been able to figure out before," he said. "After being drawn into the Hillel circle, I've reconnected with Birthright friends at a few events and had a great time." Working in tandem with the Hillel Center, the Chabad House aims to guide those interested in practicing Judaism while away from their hometown places of worship. Led by Rabbi Tzvi, the Chabad House tries to not only to provide the resources to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Jewish tradition and heritage, but also to provide academic and social support for its students. Catholic students can find religious support through the Catholic Community at Tufts (CCT), an organization that provides students resources to explore their faith. The group offers a variety of opportunities, such as Sunday Masses, retreats and a choir. Sophomore Julie Bartolomeo, who directs the Catholic Mass choir, explained that the CCT has given her an environment she was unable to find in her hometown. "I feel that the Tufts Catholic Community provides a very welcoming environment for Catholic students. My hometown actually has very few practicing Catholics, and almost none my age, so coming to Tufts was a nice change of pace for me," Bartolomeo said. "Although some might say that the Catholic community here is not very extensive, for me it is much larger and more active than at home. It's nice to know people your own age who have similar beliefs." Muslim students can participate in the Muslim Student Association, which seeks not only to explore issues facing Muslims, but aims to combat religious intolerance and discrimination. In addition, members of the group hope to gain a deeper understanding of the Qur'an. Like other religious organizations at the university, the Muslim Student Association at Tufts (MSAT) embraces students from all backgrounds. Junior Muhammad Qadri, the MSAT president, joined for the unique experiences and friends. "It's nice to have a community to go to, or have fun with or what have you," said Qadri, who is also a layout editor for the Daily. "Subsequent to joining, I've had plenty of good times … [including] a trip to the Loj and an interfaith conference in Chicago." In the spirit of the founders of Tufts, some Jumbos are flocking to the Tufts University Unitarian Universalists (TU3). According to the Unitarian Universalists national homepage, Universalism is a religion that centers on the individual and the human experience. According to many of its supporters, a major draw of the religion is its openness, encouraging members to have open minds and act morally. Sophomore Pamela Roy, a member of the TU3, was raised as a Universalist and joined the group to gain a deeper understanding of her religion and herself. "An especially big part of my experience with the … group is the fact that I joined as a freshman, when I really began the process of sorting out my independence, who I am, what I believe," she said. "[Unitarian Universalism is] an approach to living life and … [a] spiritual journey — one that is personal and unique for everyone." Coffin feels that the variety of religious backgrounds at Tufts benefits the university as a whole. "[It adds] multiple voices and perspectives on campus," he said.
