Welcome to Harvard

Once again, Prefrosh Weekend is upon us. For the next few days, more than 1,000 prospective Harvard students with blinding red folders will overrun campus. They will have no idea where Leverett or Cabot is. And, for all they know, The Fox and The Spee are select secret societies dispersed somewhere along Mt. Auburn St. They just might believe anything. They will never have heard of Mather Lather, dined inside a dining hall, or eaten at the Kong. Oh, the things they shall see.

So, dear Prefrosh, welcome to Harvard. Having been in your shoes before, we have a bit of advice to help make your experience an enjoyable one:

First, don’t worry about making it to every Harvard-planned event that’s on your pre-made schedule. While the Admissions Office does its best to ensure you get a taste of our fair institution, our best advice is to relax and let yourself wander, mingle with potential classmates, pester some upperclassmen, and stop by a party or two if you’re so inclined. Sticking to some strict schedule won’t allow you to get an idea of what Harvard is really like. The people at Harvard are one of its greatest assets, so make sure you get a chance to meet them and meet one another.

There are plenty of things to keep you entertained this weekend. Don’t miss Springfest. Springtime in Cambridge is a much-loved season, and this event promises to bring a lot of free food, live music, and people together on the MAC Quad. Despite our misconceived reputation, we also have parties. Saturday’s annual Leverett 80’s Dance might be worth your time. Enjoy all that Harvard has to offer—it’s no coincidence that Prefrosh Weekend is one of the most event-filled times at Harvard.

Ditch your parents. Parents, we love you, but when your children go to college, they will sadly leave home. If they don’t get to experience this weekend without you around, they won’t know what it’s like to live here year-round.

Don’t spend the weekend worrying about your eventual college decision. While the response deadline for most colleges is Sunday, make the most of your time at Harvard. Try to get a feel for what life is like here without constantly comparing it to the many other top-tier colleges you may have visited. Partake in the activities that are everyday occurrences for Harvard students: grab a slice of pizza at Pinocchio’s, a burrito at Felipe’s, make a late night run to CVS, and try bubble tea. Go shopping in the Square. If you spend all your time worrying about the crucial “decision” or in all the planned meetings, you will miss out on the Harvard experience.

Finally, a word to the high-and-mighty upperclassmen. Sure, you may have decided not to host Prefrosh. And yes, you may have a paper due on Monday. Still, try not to completely ignore these potential peers. Stop being so cynical, and at least point them in the right direction of the 80’s Dance or the Science Center. It’s the least you can do.