Stepping away from the books can make you a better student.
Harvard has dozens of opportunities for extracurricular involvement. Volunteer. Play a sport. Join a professional interest group. Attend a conference. Share a skill. Learn something new.
Student Organizations
Harvard Kennedy School student activities are as diverse as our students themselves. You will find more than 80 student-run organizations that run a full range of topics and activities. They also provide valuable networking opportunities both on and off campus for you to connect with your classmates and other students, HKS alumni, community leaders, and policymakers.
Our students are involved with groups, including:
- Africa Caucus
- Arts and Culture in Public Life
- Asian American and Pacific Islander Caucus
- Black Student Union
- Business and Government Professional Interest Council
- City+Local Professional Interest Council
- Climate, Energy, and Environment Professional Interest Council
- Democratic Caucus
- The Future Society
- Gender Policy Union
- Latinx Caucus
- LGBTQ Caucus
- Republican Caucus
- Soccer Team
- Tech Professional Interest Council
Student Group Working to Improve Gender Balance in the National Security Field
Open to all gender identities, 3D: Women in Defense, Diplomacy, and Development helps elevate the visibility and impact of women at HKS who are interested in pursuing careers in the fields of security, diplomacy, and development.
Student Public Service Collaborative
Another way you can get involved in community service is to participate in the Student Public Service Collaborative (SPSC). This student-led organization is dedicated to promoting the ideals of public service on campus and in the surrounding community. Its many activities include monthly volunteering opportunities, food and clothing drives, and the annual Public Service Week, which features workshops, lectures, and a day of service during the spring semester.
Take a Faculty Member to Lunch Program
The Take a Faculty Member to Lunch Program is one of our most popular activities. The way it works is simple: You and a small group of your classmates take a faculty member to lunch—your treat, thanks to HKS. It is a lively way for you and a faculty member to spend time together outside of the classroom.
Quorum Calls
A quorum call is a parliamentary practice used to summon absent members of a deliberative body. At HKS it is an opportunity for you to mingle with students from all degree programs and unwind at the end of the week over snacks and refreshments. The Kennedy School Student Government along with other HKS groups co-host the Quorum Calls every Friday at 4 pm.