We're here to help you support your student throughout their unique journey at Harvard College.
We are pleased to have your student at Harvard College and to have you and your family join our vibrant community of Harvard students, faculty, staff and alumni. We know that helping your student navigate college is an exciting time, and we also recognize that this is a period of transition for families too. Therefore, we are committed to creating opportunities and providing resources for you to learn about the College and share in the milestones your student will experience during their time at Harvard.
The Harvard College Experience
The First Year
Once your student commits to Harvard, their journey of personal, social, and intellectual transformation begins. We will prompt them throughout the summer to complete tasks that help welcome them to their new community and prepare them for success in their first semester. Programs such as Orientation will help your student make the transition from home to college as they are introduced to new friends, Harvard traditions, and campus resources and support. We encourage you to check in with your student to see if they have any questions or concerns as they prepare for their first year.
During the first year, your student will be challenged in new and exciting ways. Whether your student is learning how to share close quarters with a roommate or adapt to a college workload, the first year has its own unique lessons to navigate. Students will be encouraged to learn from setbacks while reflecting on how they've grown since high school and our staff are there to support your student every step of the way. One of the most exciting aspects of the first year is the experience of joining a residential community in the dorms. Students will connect regularly with their entryways, Resident Deans, and proctors. Academically, students will be able to explore a variety of classes that peak their interests and connect with academic supports who can help them best prepare for concentration requirements.
Key Resources: Academic Resource Center, First-Year Experience Office, Advising Programs Office
Sophomore Year
During sophomore year, your student will settle in to a close-knit community in the Houses. Each House has its own unique traditions and culture. As your student discovers their academic passions, they will prepare to declare a concentration, broaden their advising network, and fine-tune their approach to research. Your student may become more socially confident during their sophomore year, meeting additional peers outside of their first-year class through their House (while staying connected to their blocking group), student organizations, and extracurricular activities. They may even take a leadership role in a student organization or another activity. Throughout their sophomore year, your student will be encouraged to prepare for future intnerships in their related field of study, participate in research opportunities, or study abroad.
Key Resources: Office of International Education, Office of Career Services, Student Organization Center at Hilles, Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships
Junior Year
During junior year, your student will continue to hone their skills in prioritization and time management based on their further involvement on campus. Relationship-building will deepen as your student networks more intentionally with instructors and advisors and as they receive help with the next steps in their academic journey. Your student may consider writing a thesis, conducting an independent study or preparing for future graduate school applications.
Key Resources: Writing Center (thesis organization), Harvard Graduate programs, Independent Study information
Senior Year
During senior year, your student will finalize their upper-level courses and wrap up leadership roles that have prepared them to be successful in their future aspirations. In thinking about life after college, students may naturally feel uncertain about their next steps. Your student may also be more focused on solidifying their career. Because of this, your student will be encouraged to connect with alumni who may work in a related field your student is interested in, assess their financial well-being, and find ways to stay connected to the Harvard community.