38 Interesting Facts about Harvard College

Dan September 12, 2023

Harvard College, often simply referred to as Harvard, is the undergraduate liberal arts college of Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 1636, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious higher education institutions in the world. Harvard College is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, distinguished faculty, and a rich history of producing influential alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields.

Harvard College offers a diverse range of undergraduate degree programs across the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. The college follows a liberal arts curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, intellectual exploration, and interdisciplinary learning. Students have the flexibility to choose from a wide array of courses and often engage in research, internships, and extracurricular activities that align with their academic interests.

The college is home to a vibrant and diverse student body, with students hailing from all corners of the globe. This diversity contributes to a rich and inclusive learning environment, fostering cross-cultural perspectives and opportunities for global engagement. Harvard College places a strong emphasis on community service and encourages students to contribute to society through volunteer work and public service initiatives.

Harvard College is situated within Harvard’s iconic campus, which features historic architecture, world-class libraries, state-of-the-art research facilities, and numerous cultural and recreational amenities. With a long tradition of academic excellence and a commitment to innovation, Harvard College remains a prestigious destination for undergraduate education, where students are challenged to reach their full intellectual potential and are prepared to become leaders and changemakers in the global community.

Let’s take a look at these 38 interesting facts about Harvard College to know more about it.

1. Harvard College, founded in 1636, is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States.
2. The college is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and is one of the constituent schools of Harvard University.
3. Harvard College is often referred to simply as “Harvard” and is famous for its iconic crimson school color.
4. Its official motto is “Veritas,” which is Latin for truth.
5. Harvard College’s campus is spread across several historic and modern buildings in Harvard Yard, a picturesque and central part of the campus.
6. The university’s library system, known as Harvard Library, is one of the largest academic library systems in the world.
7. Harvard College is home to over 6,700 undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds.
8. The college offers a wide range of academic concentrations (majors), allowing students to pursue their passions and interests.
9. Notable alumni of Harvard College include numerous U.S. Presidents, Nobel laureates, Supreme Court justices, and influential leaders in various fields.
10. The college’s admissions process is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate typically below 5%.
11. Harvard’s financial aid program ensures that 100% of demonstrated financial need is met for all admitted students.
12. The Hasty Pudding Club, one of the oldest theatrical organizations in the United States, was founded at Harvard College in 1795.
13. Harvard College’s dining halls are known for their rich history and architectural beauty, with each having a unique character and atmosphere.
14. The Harvard Crimson is the student-run daily newspaper and one of the oldest college newspapers in the country.
15. The Harvard Lampoon, a humor magazine, has been a source of talent for many famous comedians and writers.
16. The Harvard Advocate is one of the oldest college literary magazines in the country.
17. The Harvard Square area surrounding the campus is a bustling center for shopping, dining, and cultural events.
18. Harvard College’s athletics teams are known as the Harvard Crimson, and they compete in NCAA Division I.
19. Harvard has a strong rivalry with Yale University, dating back to their first football game in 1875.
20. The college’s science and engineering programs are renowned for their contributions to research and innovation.
21. Widener Library, one of the university’s libraries, is one of the largest and most visited libraries at Harvard.
22. The Harvard Art Museums house an extensive collection of artworks from various cultures and time periods.
23. The Harvard University Band is one of the oldest collegiate marching bands in the United States.
24. Harvard Yard is home to the historic John Harvard Statue, a popular landmark and photo spot.
25. Harvard College students can participate in numerous clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities.
26. The college’s Core Curriculum includes courses in various disciplines to provide students with a well-rounded education.
27. Harvard College’s House system divides students into residential communities, fostering a sense of belonging and community.
28. The college hosts a wide range of cultural events, lectures, and guest speakers throughout the year.
29. The Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology at Harvard is known for its extensive collection of artifacts.
30. The Harvard Square area is a hub for music, with numerous live music venues and street performers.
31. Harvard College encourages students to engage in public service and community outreach through programs like the Phillips Brooks House Association.
32. The Harvard Institute of Politics provides students with opportunities to engage in politics and public service.
33. The college offers various study abroad programs, allowing students to explore global cultures and gain international perspectives.
34. Harvard’s rich history includes notable figures like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and W.E.B. Du Bois, who have made significant contributions to literature, philosophy, and civil rights.
35. The college’s commencement ceremony, held annually in May, is one of the most prestigious graduation events in the world.
36. Harvard College continues to be a global leader in education, research, and innovation, attracting some of the brightest minds from around the world.
37. The Harvard Crimson is known for its rivalry with the Yale Bulldogs in a wide range of sports, culminating in the annual Harvard-Yale football game.
38. Harvard College’s commitment to excellence, diversity, and intellectual exploration ensures that it remains a center for knowledge and innovation, shaping the future leaders and thinkers of the world.

Harvard College stands as an enduring symbol of academic excellence and innovation. With its centuries-old legacy, iconic campus, and a distinguished roster of alumni who have shaped the course of human knowledge, Harvard College remains a beacon of inspiration for higher education worldwide. It is a place where intellectual curiosity thrives, where diversity and inclusion are celebrated, and where students are empowered to become leaders, scholars, and changemakers in their respective fields. The college’s commitment to truth, its dedication to research and discovery, and its unwavering pursuit of knowledge continue to define its character and its enduring impact on the world. Harvard College not only embodies the pursuit of truth but also serves as an enduring testament to the transformative power of education.