What is Harvard University’s motto and what does it mean?
I know a lot of colleges have mottos in Latin or something, but I’m a little confused about what Harvard’s actually is and what it stands for or represents. Is it 'Veritas'? And if so, what does that mean exactly?
I’m interested because I’m working on some application essays where I want to reference the school’s values, and I don’t want to get it wrong. Any insight into the meaning behind the motto and maybe how students or alumni interpret it would be super helpful. Has it always been the same or does it have a longer history behind it?
I’m interested because I’m working on some application essays where I want to reference the school’s values, and I don’t want to get it wrong. Any insight into the meaning behind the motto and maybe how students or alumni interpret it would be super helpful. Has it always been the same or does it have a longer history behind it?
6 days ago
•
16 views
Luis Nario-Malberg
• 6 days ago
Advisor
Harvard University's official motto is “Veritas,” which is Latin for “truth.” You'll often see this word appear on the Harvard shield, typically in white capital letters across three open books.
The motto is deeply rooted in the university’s history. Originally, Harvard had a longer motto: “Veritas Christo et Ecclesiae”, meaning “Truth for Christ and the Church.” Over time, however, the university secularized, and since the 19th century, they've focused on the single word, 'Veritas.' This change reflects Harvard's commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and truth, regardless of religious or ideological boundaries, aligning with its growth as a modern research institution.
In terms of interpretation, both students and alumni often see ‘Veritas’ as more than just academic honesty. It’s about seeking deeper understanding, challenging established ideas, and holding yourself to personal and intellectual integrity. For example, when referencing the motto in your essay, you might connect it to your passion for asking hard questions in class discussions or your drive to find solutions to complex problems, even when answers are uncomfortable or ambiguous.
Referencing ‘Veritas’ in your application can show that you appreciate Harvard’s emphasis on critical inquiry and truth-seeking. Just be sure to show how these values resonate with your own experiences or aspirations—admissions officers like to see genuine, personal connections rather than just name-dropping the motto. Incorporating a specific example, like a time when you stood up for what you believed was right even if it was unpopular, can help illustrate how you embody this core value.
In sum, "Veritas" has a long tradition at Harvard and stands as a symbol of the university's foundational belief in seeking and enacting truth.
The motto is deeply rooted in the university’s history. Originally, Harvard had a longer motto: “Veritas Christo et Ecclesiae”, meaning “Truth for Christ and the Church.” Over time, however, the university secularized, and since the 19th century, they've focused on the single word, 'Veritas.' This change reflects Harvard's commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and truth, regardless of religious or ideological boundaries, aligning with its growth as a modern research institution.
In terms of interpretation, both students and alumni often see ‘Veritas’ as more than just academic honesty. It’s about seeking deeper understanding, challenging established ideas, and holding yourself to personal and intellectual integrity. For example, when referencing the motto in your essay, you might connect it to your passion for asking hard questions in class discussions or your drive to find solutions to complex problems, even when answers are uncomfortable or ambiguous.
Referencing ‘Veritas’ in your application can show that you appreciate Harvard’s emphasis on critical inquiry and truth-seeking. Just be sure to show how these values resonate with your own experiences or aspirations—admissions officers like to see genuine, personal connections rather than just name-dropping the motto. Incorporating a specific example, like a time when you stood up for what you believed was right even if it was unpopular, can help illustrate how you embody this core value.
In sum, "Veritas" has a long tradition at Harvard and stands as a symbol of the university's foundational belief in seeking and enacting truth.
Luis Nario-Malberg
Mooresville, North Carolina
Harvard College, Class of 2018, A.B. in Philosophy
Experience
5 years