What to Expect Before College Begins
Source: https://dso.college.harvard.edu/what-expect-college-begins Parent: https://dso.college.harvard.edu/transfer-students
As an incoming Harvard College student, you have many exciting months ahead before your first semester begins in the fall. This page provides a general overview of what you can expect each month leading up to your arrival on campus.
For a full list of dates and deadlines, see the Incoming Student Timeline.You can track your required summer tasks on the incoming student checklist available through my.harvard. Completing these tasks on time will help ensure a smooth transition to Harvard in the fall.
May
In May, you will begin receiving important emails from the First-Year Experience Office about tasks you need to complete over the summer. You will be asked to:
- Set up your Harvard key and email (be sure to check your Harvard College email regularly throughout summer)
- Complete housing and advising questionnaires
- Begin to complete placement exams in math and languages
- Apply for optional pre-orientation programs
- Register with the Disability Access Office if needed
June
Evey Monday beginning in June, you will receive Summer in the Yard, a weekly email newsletter. We will share guidance on many aspects your transition to college from June until the end of August.
Newsletter topics will include residential life, academics, extracurricular opportunities, and advice from current students. Summer in the Yard will also contain weekly reminders about your tasks as well as reflection questions to help you think about your transition to college.
July
Educational Modules
In July, we will share with you important educational modules designed to help you transition to our academic and residential community. Taken together, these modules will form the basis of intellectual discovery that will animate your experience at Harvard College and equip you to join us in our pursuit of veritas, the truth at the center of our institutional values. They will also further help you to understand the practices of being a safe, inclusive, and responsible community member.
We’ll contact you about final preparations for your arrival, including sharing information about and move-in day, your (including roommates/suitemates if applicable), and your academic advisor.
August
Preparing for Course Registration
You will meet virtually with your pre-concentration advisor to discuss your academic goals before you register for fall courses. They will advise you on choosing a course schedule that will align with your interests and placement and help you to build a strong academic foundation.
Your course registration is due in mid-August, so you will have some time to consider your options, attend departmental advising hours or sessions, and talk with your advising network before you commit to the four courses you’ll take in the fall.
Moving to Campus
Your arrival date for move-in depends on whether you are participating in a pre-orientation program. You should not make travel arrangements until you have been selected and confirmed participation in a pre-orientation program.
Connecting with Classmates
Whether attending a pre-orientation program or moving in after, you will participate in required incoming student orientation events to bond with classmates and learn about campus resources.
We can’t wait to welcome you!