Dear Incoming Students,

Freshman fall can be a roller coaster of emotions. Now that I’ve completed my first semester at Harvard, here are the three biggest takeaways I want to share with you!

1. Ask for help when you need it.

When I first arrived on campus, it was easy to feel intimidated by the faculty and my peers. I often struggled to ask for help because I worried that others might think less of me. Thankfully, I quickly learned that Harvard is far more welcoming and collaborative than I expected. Most people I’ve met have been incredibly generous with their time and support.

One of the best ways to gain extra help is attending office hours! Professors and teaching faculty are always excited to meet students, answer their questions, and just chat. I’ve had lovely conversations with my professors about everything from the course content itself to life in our hometowns and our favorite restaurants in the Square. There are also countless centers on campus to meet your needs:

• Academic Resource Center - Individualized academic coaching, peer tutoring, accountability hours, and workshops on skills like time management and effective study habits.
• Math Question Center - Work on problem sets with your peers and receive support from undergraduate course assistants.
• Writing Center - Appointments and drop-in hours for review of papers, fellowship applications, English language and grammar support, citations, and more.
• Mignone Center for Career Success - Resources for job/internship hunting, one-on-one meetings with career advisors in a multitude of fields, and networking events.
• And many more!

2. Get involved in the community.

There is so much more to Harvard than academic coursework alone! Many of my most meaningful memories and relationships have emerged from my involvement in student organizations. With over 500 student organizations on campus, there is truly a space for every person to explore their interests and cultivate their passions.

For example, I’ve found a deeply nurturing community in the Harvard-Radcliffe Asian American Association. We welcome students of all ethnic identities, and some of our events include study breaks, cultural food festivals, and fun mixers. 

I’ve also extended my lifelong love for music by joining the Harvard Wind Ensemble. Last semester, we traveled to Boston College to perform at the Bands of the Beanpot concert, and we got to perform inside Sanders Theatre on Halloween. 

3. Welcome unfamiliar people and experiences.

I have learned as much in my classes as I have from conversations with strangers at Annenberg, unplanned adventures across Boston, and a willingness to take risks that expand my understanding of the world. College is a series of opportunities to explore who you are and who you want to be.

Welcoming the unfamiliar has granted me my closest friends, my most heartwarming memories, and a freshman fall that I wouldn’t change for the world. If you approach Harvard with an attitude of openness and excitement, you will succeed no matter what you choose to do.

To the incoming freshmen of the future, best of luck!

Sincerely,
Kaitlyn