Orientation

Orientation is your official welcome to Harvard College. 

Participation in Orientation is a mandatory component of your transition to Harvard. Throughout Orientation you will begin to learn about the values of the Harvard community and the opportunities and responsibilities associated with being a member. Most importantly, it is a time for you to get settled, meet peers and advisers, and consider how to explore and pursue your intellectual and personal interests. Although there is much to learn, there are many students, faculty, and staff who are ready to offer advice and support you throughout your transition to Harvard. 

Accessibility and Accommodations 

We are committed to making our community and our programs accessible to everyone and recognize that not all environments are universally designed this way. While Orientation customizes curriculum and community building efforts for varying learning styles and access needs, we understand that additional accommodations may be necessary. If you need any accommodations to fully participate in Orientation, please contact the Disability Access Office (DAO) prior to move-in. Your privacy is important to us and any information you share with DAO is used for program accessibility and/or accommodation purposes only. 

Class of 2030 Virtual Orientation  

We are delighted to introduce you, our newest members, to the Harvard community and to support you in navigating the college transition. Through a number of online modules, we seek to orient you to the many resources, offices, and individuals who will accompany you throughout your undergraduate journey at Harvard College. More instructions on how to access and complete the modules prior to move-in will be shared over the summer.   

Orientation Schedule 

First-Year Orientation for the Class of 2030 will take place the evening of Wednesday, August 26 – Tuesday, September 1. The full schedule will be made available in early August. Students should not plan additional events outside of Orientation as there will be full days of activities. 

Community Conversations 

A long-standing tradition at Harvard College, Community Conversations is a program for first-year students to discuss elements of identity and belonging together with their entryway peers and Proctor.  This conversation serves as a starting point to help students consider their role in building and sustaining community at Harvard. 

First-Year Convocation 

During Convocation, we'll formally welcome you to Harvard College, providing you with an understanding of the values, history, and traditions of our institution. 

Learn about first-year Convocation 

Orientation Welcoming Committee 

As leaders within the Orientation program, upper-level students play an important role in supporting your transition to Harvard. At the very beginning of your experience, the Orientation Welcoming Committee plans community-building events to connect you with peers and help you develop a sense of belonging at Harvard. 

Learn about the Orientation Welcoming Committee