Overcrowding Forces Second Choices

A few weeks ago, Aiissa Clements '85 was looking ahead to her first semester as a concentrator in Harvard's Department of Visual and Environmental Studies (VES).

But now Clements, an aspiring artist, is thinking seriously about leaving the University. She is one of an increasing number of students who must be refused entrance to VES, officials say, because of overcrowding among concentrators.

"You either have to get out or choose a different concentration," Clements said yesterday.

Fewer Freshmen

VES Chairman Louis Bakanowsky said yesterday that in addition to accepting fewer freshmen as concentrators, fewer students will be permitted to transfer into the department, and smaller numbers of non-concentrators will be allowed in VES classes.

"The optimum number of concentrators for our department would be 110," Bakanowsky said, adding that there are currently about 135 VES majors.

Bakanowsky said that additional classroom space and more VES personnel could also solve the overcrowding problem. But, he explained. "I don't see those coming in the near future."

Since its creation in 1968, the VES Depart- ment has required students to apply to an evaluation committee for admission.

Three semester-long studio courses are required of concentrators by the end of their sophomore year.

Increasing demand for the studio courses has caused scheduling difficulties for concentrators, officials said yesterday.

This semester, several lotteries have been held for admission to the studio courses, with 200 students competing for 60 spaces in Literature and Arts B-17, "Studio Arts, Theoretical and Practical Explorations.