Life at Harward
If you’re considering attending Harvard University, there’s much to consider. The campus is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston. The school was founded in 1636 and had a total undergraduate enrollment of over 15,000 students. Harvard is home to many research facilities, like the Harvard Medical School and the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study. It also has many student organizations and clubs that offer students plenty of opportunities for extra-curricular activities on campus.
Welcome to the Harvard community!
The Harvard community is a diverse group of students, staff, and faculty who come together to learn from one another. As members of this community, you can participate in various activities that enrich your time at Harvard and prepare you for success after graduation.
Housing
Harvard has various housing options; students can live in dorms or apartments. If you’re looking for a place with roommates, plenty of options are available–and if you’d rather live by yourself, there’s still an option!
Students can also choose whether to live on or off campus. Most first-year students live in either Harvard Yard or House System housing during their first year here at Harvard; however, upper-level students have more freedom when choosing where they want to live. Some students choose not only where but also what type of room they want based on its amenities (such as having no roommate), proximity from classes and food services (such as being close enough so that walking isn’t necessary), size/shape/price range, etc.
Food & Dining
Harvard Dining Services: This is the main dining hall on campus and is open to all students. The food here is delicious, but plenty of options are nearby if you want something more casual or cheaper.
Harvard Yard: This is where most of your meals will take place–and if you aren’t feeling like eating in one of the dining halls (or want a change), there are plenty of places outside that serve food, too!
Harvard Square: This area has many restaurants and some great local shops. If you’re looking for something quick or cheap, try Chipotle; if you want something fancy with an upscale vibe (and maybe even some excellent art)? Head over to Mather House!
Punter’s Pub: This pub serves up some mean burgers and fries…but beware: They only accept cash! If you don’t have any on hand when your order comes up at the counter…you might need help getting back in line later!
Student Organizations
Student organizations are a great way to get involved and meet new people. There are many different types of organizations, so you’re sure to find one that interests you. You can join an organization on campus or start your own! Student organizations are open to all Harvard students, regardless of major or year in school.
Here’s how it works: When an event is coming up that relates to your area of interest (and there will be plenty), sign up for it by visiting that organization’s website and clicking “join.” Then come back as often as possible–the more often, the better!
Health & Wellness
Health and wellness are a significant priority for the Harvard University community. The school has a wide variety of resources available for students and their families, including:
- Health insurance requirements (mandatory)
- Free health clinic open to the public (Harvard Medical School)
- Wellness centre with free fitness classes (Harvard University)
Commuter Living at Harvard University
You might think you can only live in Harvard’s dorms if they’re only for students who commute to school. Well, think again! There are plenty of reasons why living on campus is better than commuting from your parents’ house or renting an apartment in the city:
- You’ll save money on housing costs. Students who live on campus pay cheaper rent than those who commute from home–and they don’t have any travel costs either! Plus, your tuition includes many benefits (like meal plans and access to health services).
Your social life will improve dramatically–forget about driving back home every weekend! You’ll be surrounded by other young adults just like yourself–and there’s no better place for making friends than college!