Home at Harvard | Summary and Q&A

Transcript

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Summary

In this video, Rakesh Khurana, the Dean of Harvard College, congratulates students on their acceptance to Harvard and reassures them that they belong at the institution. He emphasizes that Harvard is a place where students can be their authentic selves and encourages them to explore the various opportunities available to them. Students share their experiences of finding community and starting new initiatives at Harvard. The video concludes with the message that Harvard is an inclusive home for students, regardless of their background or interests.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does the Dean assure students that they belong at Harvard?

Rakesh Khurana tells students that the admissions committee sees something in them that they might not see in themselves. He emphasizes that Harvard is their home and encourages them to embrace their true selves.

Q: How do students describe their experiences of feeling at home at Harvard?

Students express how natural and comfortable it feels to call Harvard their home. They mention feeling more like themselves at Harvard than they did in high school, and the opportunity to meet and connect with a diverse range of people.

Q: What are some of the activities and opportunities available to Harvard students?

There are over 450 different extracurriculars on campus, including sports, music, and cultural organizations. Additionally, if students cannot find a specific group they are interested in, Harvard is willing to help them start their own.

Q: Can you provide an example of a student who started their own group at Harvard?

One student mentions starting a group for Asian-American women since she noticed its absence when she arrived at Harvard. This highlights Harvard's openness to supporting new initiatives and fostering a sense of community.

Q: How does Harvard foster a sense of pride and community?

Housing Days, referred to as a "Harvard holiday," introduce freshmen to the 12 different houses they will be placed in. This experience allows students to gain a new sense of identity and connect with around 300 new friends.

Q: How do students describe the people at Harvard?

Students express admiration for the diverse and inclusive community at Harvard. They emphasize that it doesn't matter about one's background, beliefs, or hobbies - there is a place for everyone at Harvard.

Q: What message does the video convey to prospective students?

The video emphasizes that students can find their home at Harvard. It reassures them that regardless of their interests, background, or identity, Harvard welcomes and supports them to explore their passions.

Q: How does Harvard support students in finding their place?

Harvard provides a warm and welcoming environment, as well as a wide range of extracurricular activities. The college also encourages students to start their own groups, ensuring that there is always an inclusive home for everyone.

Q: Can you describe the diversity at Harvard?

Harvard embraces students from various socioeconomic backgrounds, whether they are first-generation or ninth-generation students. The college is also inclusive of students from different parts of the world, with various interests and identities.

Q: In what way can Harvard be considered a home for students?

Harvard offers a supportive and inclusive community where students can thrive academically and personally. Students can find their place, explore their passions, and build meaningful relationships, ultimately making Harvard their true home.

Takeaways

Harvard College provides a home-like environment for students, where they are encouraged to be their authentic selves and explore various opportunities. The college prides itself on its diverse and inclusive community, supporting students from different backgrounds and interests. Students can connect with like-minded individuals and start new initiatives. Harvard's commitment to fostering a sense of belonging ensures that every student can find their home at the institution.