Harvard Pre-College Program Orientation - Notes

Welcome and Introduction

• Speaker: Dr. Jacqueline Nukem (she/her), Director of the Harvard Pre-College Program
• Established: Harvard College in 1636, Harvard Summer School in 1871, Pre-College Program in 2013
• Goals of the Program:
  • Offer high-achieving high school students an opportunity for critical thinking
  • Encourage global student community and debate
  • Provide a curriculum similar to the liberal arts at Harvard
  • Promote holistic student development inside and outside the classroom

Agenda of the Orientation

• Review of a typical day
• Discuss academic course expectations
• Co-curricular events
• Student support services
• Introduction of Pre-College Program staff
• Q&A section at the end

Harvard Pre-College Program Staff Introductions

• Caroline Lucy: High School Programs Coordinator
• Samantha Gordon: Assistant Director, Pre-College Program
• Program staff: Graduate Level and New Professional Interns (Resident Deans - RDs)
• Activities Coordinators: Managed by Jordan Williams, responsible for extracurriculars

Student Demographics and Polls

• Attendance from 44 states and 80 countries
• About 600 students per session, a few attending multiple sessions
• Polls to understand where students are from and their course disciplines

Typical Day and Student Expectations

• Classes: 3 hours/day, Mon-Fri, plus 2-4 hours of homework daily
• No classes on July 4th but required activities will be scheduled
• Course Components: Lectures, discussions, presentations, problem sets, drafts, readings
• Academic Expectations:
  • Arrive on time
  • Avoid scheduling other activities during the program
  • Complete assignments and attend all classes
  • Engage and participate actively
  • Adhere to academic integrity policies
  • Seek help from tutors, TAs, and office hours as needed

Co-curricular and Social Events

• 50+ events each session: academic exploration, college readiness, social activities
• Virtual admissions panels and talks available for all sessions
• Event registration through myDCE account
• Examples: Academic explorations, trips, social gatherings, support sessions

Housing and Residential Life

• Housing: Dunster House, Leverett House (including McKinlock Hall)
• Community Life: Proctors and Resident Deans (RAs for other institutions)
• Curfew: 11:00 PM daily
• Policies: No alcohol or drugs, follow community guidelines, maintain academic integrity
• Health Services: Harvard University Health Services available, urgent care, mental health support

Arrival and Moving-In

• Check-In: Offer photo ID and submitted immunizations, H-ticket required
• Packing: Light, as students carry their own bags
• Orientation: Tours, introductory sessions with Proctors and peers

General Reminders and Best Practices

• Manage time effectively, keep up with coursework and assignments
• Respect dorm life and community guidelines
• Be proactive in seeking academic and personal support
• Engage actively in both academic and co-curricular activities

Communication and Support

• Student Support: Contact via [email protected] or visit in person
• Technical and Logistical Support: MyDCE portal, IT services, and Proctors
• Health and Safety: Follow guidelines, keep personal records updated
• Family Communication: Encourage students to manage communication independently

Contacts and Queries

• Contact info shared for further assistance and emergencies
• Communication guidelines outlined: no parent communication without student consent

Q&A Highlights

• Class Attendance: Mandatory, must attend every day unless in case of urgent health issues
• Co-curricular Registration: Via myDCE, deadline adherence crucial
• Leaving Campus: Allowed within Cambridge/Boston during the day, must return by curfew
• Health and Safety: Various resources available, call for urgent situations

Final Remarks

• Dr. Nukem congratulates students on being selected for the highly competitive program
• Encouragement to fully engage and make the most of the experience