SQUAD Student Experiences:

I participated in SQUAD and it made me fall in love with the black community here. It made me feel like I had a community that not only had my back, but would uplift and support me. It allowed me to acclimate so quickly onto campus and calmed many of my anxieties about coming to Tufts. It also made me aware of all the resources that were available to me, once again showing that I was not alone in my college struggles.  

-Daria Black-Hackett, Class of 2025 

My favorite thing about SQUAD is its ability to build a central community grounded in love, support, and excitement for Black Jumbos. There's no other space that compares to how unapologetically Black and happy we are able to be as we foster growth and community through SQUAD. In addition, so many students have built their leadership skills and network through the SQUAD program, which is truly inspiring to see.  

-Aviance Haymon, Class of 2025 

SQUAD was really helpful in acclimating me to the Africana Community at Tufts, while also familiarizing me with many resources that Tufts has to offer.  

-Trey Lawrence, Class of 2026 

What I loved about SQUAD was how connected I felt to Tufts and the Africana community after such a short period of time. My favorite part was the final ceremony where we had a party on a boat with a few other pre-orientation groups. The program overall really helped create a good first impression of the Tufts community and it allowed me to get better acclimated to my new environment before school began. By doing SQUAD, I quickly acclimated to the Africana community which allowed me to easily join the broader Tufts community. Others should participate in Pre-O because it is an opportunity to meet new people, gain a better understanding of the Tufts community, and get acclimated before the big rush of new undergrads.  

-Dafina Njanja Fassu, Class of 2027