10 things to do before your first week of classes

The first week of classes at HKS is an exciting time. It’s one of the first moments when you’ll catch yourself thinking, “Wow, I can’t believe I’m at Harvard.” Once you’ve made it through your Summer Program or Orientation and finalized your schedule after course bidding, it’s time to settle in. But beyond the excitement, it’s also when the real work begins. 

The first week can feel overwhelming with new faces, new hallways, and new routines. Thankfully, with the support of kind faculty, staff, and classmates, I quickly felt at home. Now, I look back on that first week with both nostalgia and gratitude. Here’s the advice I’d give my past self. Hopefully, it helps you too! 

1. Review your syllabi and plan ahead 

Midterms and finals will sneak up on you. Get organized early by tracking deadlines in a way that works for you, whether it’s an Excel sheet, Outlook calendar, or a good old-fashioned planner. Staying ahead of assignments will make your semester much smoother. 

2. Set up office hours 

While reviewing your syllabi, check for your professors’ office hours. Book an introductory meeting in the first week; it’s a great way to build rapport and get advice on succeeding in the course. If possible, schedule mid-semester and final check-ins early, as faculty schedules fill up fast! 

3. Connect with alumni 

Recent graduates are a goldmine for advice on courses, job opportunities, and even where to find the best food in town. Some of my best first-week conversations were with alumni still in the area. Jump on LinkedIn and reach out. HKS alums are incredibly helpful and always willing to share insights. 

4. Explore extracurriculars (but don’t overcommit!) 

HKS offers countless ways to get involved: student government, caucuses, student-led conferences, teaching assistant roles, and more. You’ll also find workshops, guest speakers, and Institute of Politics (IOP) events. Just be mindful of your time—your schedule can fill up fast! 

5. Claim a locker 

A locker is a valuable piece of real estate, especially in the winter when you need a spot for coats and bags. You can sign up for one through your my.harvard portal. Do it early! 

6. Plan your campus commute 

HKS is a bit of a maze, and navigating Harvard’s broader campus can feel like a trek. Use your first week to figure out the fastest routes between classes, especially if you’re cross-registering at other Harvard schools. Also, plan for bad weather; Cambridge’s snow and rain can be unpredictable. 

7. Visit HKS Information Technology (IT) early 

The IT office, tucked away near the HKS library, is the place to go if you’re having Wi-Fi, printing, or tech setup issues. Get connected early so you’re not scrambling later. 

8. Sign up for newsletters and emails 

Opportunities at HKS are endless, but it’s easy to miss out if you’re not plugged in. Subscribe to newsletters from various research centers to stay updated on fellowships, guest speakers, and faculty publications. 

9. Meet new people 

You’ll likely make some friends during Orientation or your Summer Program but take time to meet new faces, too. The first week can feel a little lonely. Grab coffee on JFK Street, have lunch in the cafeteria, or reach out to someone you meant to connect with earlier. 

10. Explore Harvard and Cambridge 

Start exploring now! Get a Harvard Library passport and visit all the libraries. Check out student performances, historic landmarks, and Boston’s Freedom Trail. It’s easy to get caught up in coursework, so make time to enjoy the area early on. You’ll be glad you did. 

I hope you have an incredible first week at HKS. My time here has been unforgettable, thanks to amazing friends, enriching experiences, and the support of exceptional faculty and staff.

Wishing you the best of luck. Enjoy every moment!