20.01.2025 – Last week we had an inspiring workshop in J-Term on writing illness narratives. Overall, my week was pretty calm and filled with class work, meeting friends, and trying out the e-piano I bought. I want to take advantage of this slower pace and answer a question, that I often get: How hard are classes at Harvard?
Over the next couple of weeks, I will create a short series about my experience with Harvard classes, sharing lessons learned and my current strategies for managing the workload.
Are Harvard Classes Really That Hard?
My short answer: it depends. Each class varies, but there are a few differences I’ve noticed compared to my undergrad studies in Austria and Mississippi. I should mention that I exceeded the required credits in my first which makes my experience different to the typical experience. Here are my key takeaways:
1. The Workload is Balanced but Relentless:
In Austria, there was often one big exam at the end of the semester, but less work in the months leading up to this exam. At Harvard, the workload is distributed more evenly, with spikes around midterms and finals. This requires constantly keeping up with readings, assignments and projects, which can be tiring at some points.
2. Reading Seems like a Sport Here
I was surprised by the amount of preparation readings. In some weeks I was required to read about 500 pages to read as preparation for class, which is far more than I was used to. Also, you’re expected to engage with the reading material and critique, and discuss it in class.
3. High Support, Low Risk of Failure
Another surprising difference: In my experience, failing a Harvard class is pretty hard – definitely harder than in Austria. One benefit of Harvard is the big support system for students. Professors and TAs are happy to explain teaching materials outside of class and are oftentimes flexible about deadlines if you communicate personal needs. (This helped me last semester when my water bottle decided to shower my laptop, and I couldn’t use it for days.) In Salzburg deadlines felt like non-negotiables.
4. Your Voice Matters
Asignments and essays require effort, and a profound understanding and analysis of sometimes complex topic matters. Critical thoughts and opinions are encouraged in papers here, which differs from my experience in Salzburg. There, academic papers were only considered valid if they were backed by studies. To incorporate personal analysis I had to push myself to think out of the box.
Weekly High, Low, Buffalo & Lessons Learned
High:
Music and singing sessions with friends, exploring the vibrant Sommerville Farmer’s Market again, enjoying meals with friends, experimenting with my new e-piano, a refreshing cold plunge in the ocean
Low:
As a person who loves planning, the uncertainty of my future work and living situation is challenging.
Buffalo:
I prepped about 6 portions of meals but was a bit too enthusiastic with the cumin…Any advice on how to neutralize the taste, so I can enjoy my meals again? (My taste buds thank you in advance!)
Lessons Learned:
Is it cheating? Wearing water shoes makes staying in the cold water soooo much easier, especially at low tide, and as there is glass scattered in the sand
Have a great week!
Liebe Grüße aus Boston
Sophie
Is there anything you want to know about me, my classes, or my overall experience? Feel free to leave a comment or reach out!