SHAPE: Students Heightening Actionable Political Engagement

The institutions of our democracy and the ideas that underpin them are being challenged across our society. Now more than ever, our world needs people with the skills, habits, and inclinations to strengthen inclusive democracy and contribute to solving the most important problems in their communities together. You will be part of a real-world ‘think tank’ working with local government and our neighbors to shape policy and grassroots program implementation in our host community on a real problem the community faces. We invite all civically minded, politically curious, and creative incoming students to this truly unique experience, where you will interact with elected officials, neighbors, and Tufts alumni doing related work.

What to Expect

As a participant in SHAPE, you’ll be part of a welcoming, supportive, fun community that facilitates social connections and learning about Tufts.  At the same time, you’ll get first-hand experience with civic, advocacy, and governmental organizations and you’ll make a difference in our local communities by participating in a hands-on civic project.

Community

SHAPE is a bonding experience that launches you into Tufts.  Thanks to our small group format, highly-rated social activities, shared meals, and the intensive schedule, participants find that their SHAPE peers quickly become friends and remain close throughout their journey at Tufts, long after pre-o has ended.  In addition to being surrounded by impressive peers, you’ll be connected to SHAPE coordinators and leaders who mentor participants and serve as resources and lasting connections, offering advice and cheering you on as you navigate your Tufts experience.  SHAPErs also report that SHAPE helped them acclimate to campus before orientation started and made lasting friendships to ease their way into orientation week and the school year.

Make a Difference

Civic engagement is part of our DNA at Tufts, and SHAPE launches you into your civic engagement journey at Tufts.  SHAPE is a hands-on experience where you will learn about our local communities, meet elected officials and other leaders, and make a direct, meaningful difference for your new neighbors.  The signature SHAPE experience is a project where we partner with a government agency, non-profit organization, or other civic group to make a positive difference in our society.  While projects often have a direct action component, the project is focused on policy-level work and the political system, rather than individual volunteerism.  Projects are often intensive and rewarding.  While the project is completed during SHAPE, students may choose to stay involved with the same issue moving forward or use the skills from SHAPE in other activities in the future.  In many cases, students find that SHAPE has activated their interest in democracy, civic engagement, politics, and making a difference.

SHAPE is for Everyone

SHAPE is open to every incoming Tufts student!  No prior experience with civic engagement, politics, activism, or volunteerism is required.  Students of all identities, philosophies, citizenships, and political persuasions are welcome.