Harvard Seniors: From Final Exams to a Sumptuous Soirée

During their last week before graduating, Harvard seniors engage in a variety of activities that blend academic responsibilities, celebratory events, and personal reflections. Let's delve into some of the common activities and events that mark this exciting and bittersweet final week.

Academic Responsibilities

Final Exams and Projects

Many seniors are busy wrapping up their final exams, projects, and papers. It's a crucial period to ensure they complete all academic requirements before graduation, a testament to their hard work and dedication during their time at Harvard.

Commencement Rehearsal

Seniors participate in rehearsals for the graduation ceremony, which include practicing the procession, seating arrangements, and other logistical details. This is an essential step to ensure everything runs smoothly on the day of the ceremony.

Graduation Week Celebrations

Senior Week Events

Harvard organizes a Senior Week filled with a range of events such as parties, dinners, and outings. These activities aim to celebrate the graduating class and provide a platform for seniors to do their final social dance. Some of the notable events include:

Formal Dinner: A distinguished night where seniors can don their best formal wear, complete with dinner and speeches from faculty members and alumni. Charlestown Cruise: A cruise on the Charles River, offering a picturesque and memorable way to conclude Senior Week. Social Gatherings: Various dinners, brunches, and other social events hosted by undergraduate houses, ranging from tutor bars and champagne brunches to wine tastings.

Cap and Gown Preparation

Students prepare for the graduation ceremony by purchasing or renting their caps and gowns. Photo opportunities are aplenty, and many seniors take full advantage of the occasion to commemorate this milestone in their academic journey.

Farewell Gatherings

Many seniors host or attend farewell gatherings, not only with friends but also with professors and mentors. These events are a time for reflection, gratitude, and the celebration of their time at the university.

Networking and Job Preparation

Some seniors focus on finalizing job placements, attending networking events, or preparing for graduate school. This is a crucial time for them to build connections that will serve them well in the future.

Personal Reflection

This period is marked by personal reflection. Students think about their experiences, accomplishments, and future plans, marking the transition from the past to the future.

The Order of Events: Senior Week Timeline

The festivities culminate in a week filled with many special events. Below is a typical schedule of school-wide events that occur during Senior Week:

Saturday, May 14

Grand Departure: Senior Outdoor Reflection Trips leave for a 2- or 3-day trip in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Options range from an easy stay in a cabin, medium day camping, to hard backpacking.

Sunday, May 15

Six Flags Trip in Agawam, MA

Undergraduate house socials

Beer tastings and “lessons” at Queens Head Pub

Monday, May 16

Senior Olympics split by undergraduate house and BBQ

Senior Bar at the Kong

Tuesday, May 17

“Moonlight Cruise” from 8–11:30pm on Boston’s Harbor

Wednesday, May 18

Senior Bar at John Harvard’s

Thursday, May 19

Camp Harvard on the Quad Lawn: Summer picnic activities like frisbee and beanbag toss, with an accompanying BBQ

“Last Chance Dance”

Friday, May 20

Senior Talent Show

Scavenger Hunt in Boston

Saturday, May 21

Senior Soirée: Science Center Plaza

A “classier” dance than the “Last Chance Dance” with wine and appetizers

Harvard seniors savor these moments, ensuring they make the most out of it and create eternal memories before stepping into the next chapter of their lives. Whether it's through academic rigor, social gatherings, or personal reflection, the last week before graduating at Harvard is truly an unforgettable experience that they will cherish for years to come.