Harvard University places a strong emphasis on campus safety and student well-being. The university operates its own police department, provides 24/7 security patrols, and maintains a robust emergency alert system. Nearly all first-year students are required to live on campus, fostering a close-knit community and easy access to resources. Housing is guaranteed for undergraduates, with accessible accommodations available for students with disabilities. The residential system, featuring historic Houses, offers a supportive environment with live-in faculty deans and resident tutors, ensuring students have guidance and mentorship throughout their college experience.
Harvard encourages open communication between students, families, and the university. Parents can stay informed through regular newsletters, the Harvard College Parent and Family Engagement Office, and the university’s online portals. Students are provided with Harvard email accounts and have access to a variety of digital platforms for academic and social engagement. The university also hosts family weekends and events that welcome parents to campus, fostering a sense of connection and community.
Harvard offers a wide range of support services to help students thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Academic advising is available from the moment students arrive, with dedicated advisors and peer mentors. The university provides comprehensive mental health services, tutoring, writing centers, and career counseling. Specialized resources support first-generation and international students, and there are numerous student organizations and affinity groups to help every student find their place and build a support network.
Student health is a top priority at Harvard, with on-campus medical, counseling, and wellness services available through Harvard University Health Services (HUHS). Students have access to primary care, mental health counseling, urgent care, and health education programs. Parents are welcome to visit campus, and the university offers guided tours and informational sessions. Boston’s proximity (just across the river) provides additional world-class medical facilities and easy travel options for family visits.
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