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My Fall 2025 semester in the MS in Engineering Management (MSEM) program at Tufts University began with a mix of high hopes, anticipation, and a little bit of anxiety. I worried about not fitting in or coping with the challenges of graduate school. Even with well-rounded experiences in my home country, I feared I might struggle to adapt here.
Orientation day for our MSEM student cohort at The Gordon Institute (TGI) was both exciting and engaging, especially during the ice-breaking session. The room buzzed with nervous energy as we introduced ourselves, each story revealing a tapestry of backgrounds and ambitions. I remember the laughter echoing as we stumbled through quirky icebreaker games, the awkwardness quickly melting into genuine curiosity about one another. Meeting my classmates and professors for the first time felt surreal; the faculty greeted us with warm smiles and encouraging words, instantly making the unfamiliar space feel welcoming. I was struck by the diversity in the room—accents, perspectives, and experiences blending, promising a rich learning environment.
During our first class sessions, my inner voice kept saying, “This is why I came here! There is so much to learn!” As I listened to my classmates share their thoughts, I realized I was surrounded by people who were just as eager, anxious, and hopeful as I was. The sense of camaraderie was immediate; we were all navigating the same uncertainties, but we were here to help each other find our places in this new chapter.
Yet, some fear lingered in my mind. At first, I worried I wouldn’t be able to connect with my classmates or adapt to the change. But I soon realized that campus already felt like my safe space. Professors, both in and out of class, made an effort to help us adjust and feel welcome at TGI. Gradually, my fear shifted: now I wondered if I would be able to connect with people outside TGI or Tufts.
Exactly fifteen days after my first class, I had the chance to attend an event organized by the Derby Entrepreneurship Center: the "Tufts Entrepreneurial Network (TEN): Boston Alum Meetup" at a pub in East Somerville. When I saw the event promotions, I was skeptical that I would be able to connect with this new group of people. But deep down, I wanted to go. I spoke with Elaine Chen, Director of the Derby Entrepreneurship Center, who cleared all of my doubts and encouraged me to register. With her encouragement in mind and a drive to overcome my own fears, I decided to attend.
As soon as I arrived, the environment was vibrant; people were in high spirits, talking with each other and sharing their experiences. It wasn’t easy for me to step into this setting; my inner voices battled with conflicting thoughts. I was there to overcome my fear, network with the alumni, and better understand the Boston entrepreneurial dynamics. As I took in my surroundings, I was surprised to see I was the only current student among all the alumni in attendence. Again, my fear was at its peak! But I was already there, so I decided to go with the flow.
At first, I spoke with people I already knew—including Elaine and Kevin Oye, Executive Director of TGI. Then, I found myself alone, hesitant to start new conversations. As an alumnus approached me and initiated a conversation, I felt relieved. We had a great conversation, especially about business and economic policies—topics I am passionate about. This gave me a boost of confidence, and I began to approach others.
I realized that communication techniques are universal; only the language changes. I was able to have meaningful conversations, connect instantly, and confidently share my ideas. It felt as if a latent confidence in me had finally surfaced. I began sharing my past work at my venture, connecting with people on LinkedIn, and even taking photos with everyone. By the end of the night, I even found a mentor who appreciated my energy, confidence, and eagerness to learn—the exact opposite of what I had feared.
Samin with a Tufts alumnus at the TEN event
By the end of that evening, as I walked back through the quiet Somerville streets, I couldn’t help but think about how far I’d come since Orientation. The fear that once made me wonder if I would fit in with this new community had gradually faded. Within both my cohort and the wider Tufts alumni network, I discovered that belonging isn’t about immediate comfort but about showing up with curiosity and courage. That night, I realized I had truly found my place here and, more importantly, I silenced the voice of imposter syndrome that once loomed so large.