Samira Alic, A08

About her

A Bosnian immigrant who arrived in the United States six years ago, international-relations major Samira Alic recognizes her fellow students' life experiences – like her own – have a lot to teach. Without the diversity made possible in the student body by financial aid, she says, fewer opportunities would arise to learn from others’ stories. "So many amazing students are here who, because of their economic circumstances, would not be able to attend Tufts without financial support," says Alic, herself a recipient of financial aid. "Without them, Tufts would not be the school that it is."

A cause she supports: student financial aid

Thanks to an increased investment in financial aid by alumni and friends, Tufts has made steady progress in recent years towards removing the consideration of students’ financial need from the admissions process. Referred to as need-blind admissions, this practice results in a student body that is both highly diverse and highly qualified. That means attracting more students like Alic, whose first choice was Tufts.

Why she's happy to be here

"If I hadn’t come to Tufts, I wouldn’t have discovered my passion for international relations," she says. "Every time I walk up the Memorial Steps, I realize how lucky I am to be here."

The generous support of alumni, parents and friends enables deserving students to attend Tufts based on their ability – not their ability to pay. Learn how your gift can benefit financial aid.