How hard is it actually to succeed at Harvard?
I'm a current junior and I'm trying to understand if Harvard is as intense as people say. I know getting in is super difficult, but what about once you're actually there?
Some people tell me everyone struggles with the workload and that there's a ton of pressure to be the best. Others say that it's manageable if you have good time management. I love challenging classes, but I also care about having a social life and not burning out. If you or someone you know goes to Harvard, is it really that competitive and overwhelming all the time?
I'm potentially interested in majoring in economics or political science, not STEM, if that makes a difference. Would love to hear about daily life, how people balance academics and everything else, and just any general thoughts from current students or recent grads.
Some people tell me everyone struggles with the workload and that there's a ton of pressure to be the best. Others say that it's manageable if you have good time management. I love challenging classes, but I also care about having a social life and not burning out. If you or someone you know goes to Harvard, is it really that competitive and overwhelming all the time?
I'm potentially interested in majoring in economics or political science, not STEM, if that makes a difference. Would love to hear about daily life, how people balance academics and everything else, and just any general thoughts from current students or recent grads.
1 week ago
•
11 views
Luis Nario-Malberg
• 1 week ago
Advisor
Harvard’s reputation for academic rigor is definitely deserved, but the experience really depends a lot on how you manage your time, choose your classes, and set expectations for yourself. For most students, the initial adjustment to Harvard's fast pace and high standards can feel overwhelming. Professors and classmates are all extremely accomplished, and there’s no shortage of ambitious people around you, which can create some pressure.
However, it’s worth noting that Harvard doesn’t set out to make students "fail"—the administration and faculty generally want you to succeed. There are a lot of resources, like peer tutoring, office hours, and mental health support. Many students find that after the first semester or so, they figure out how to make the workload manageable, especially if they’re proactive about seeking help and managing their schedules.
For non-STEM majors like economics or government (Harvard’s term for political science), the workload can definitely be heavy with readings, problem sets, papers, and finals. But you’ll find a fair bit of flexibility in building your course schedule, and there are many courses that are more discussion-based or focus on research and writing instead of purely exams. Some students purposefully balance tougher classes with some that are more manageable in a given semester.
Social life is still very much present at Harvard—clubs, sports, house events, and the city of Cambridge itself all offer ways to unwind and meet people outside of academics. Many students say that building in time for friends, extracurriculars, and breaks is necessary to avoid burnout. You might find that most people around you care about more than just grades; there’s a good deal of collaborative learning, and many upperclassmen are happy to offer advice about professors or balancing commitments.
In summary: yes, Harvard is challenging, and the standards are high, but it’s not nonstop misery or cutthroat competition. If you’re passionate about your field, organized, and willing to ask for help when you need it, you can find a balance between academic success and having a life outside the classroom.
However, it’s worth noting that Harvard doesn’t set out to make students "fail"—the administration and faculty generally want you to succeed. There are a lot of resources, like peer tutoring, office hours, and mental health support. Many students find that after the first semester or so, they figure out how to make the workload manageable, especially if they’re proactive about seeking help and managing their schedules.
For non-STEM majors like economics or government (Harvard’s term for political science), the workload can definitely be heavy with readings, problem sets, papers, and finals. But you’ll find a fair bit of flexibility in building your course schedule, and there are many courses that are more discussion-based or focus on research and writing instead of purely exams. Some students purposefully balance tougher classes with some that are more manageable in a given semester.
Social life is still very much present at Harvard—clubs, sports, house events, and the city of Cambridge itself all offer ways to unwind and meet people outside of academics. Many students say that building in time for friends, extracurriculars, and breaks is necessary to avoid burnout. You might find that most people around you care about more than just grades; there’s a good deal of collaborative learning, and many upperclassmen are happy to offer advice about professors or balancing commitments.
In summary: yes, Harvard is challenging, and the standards are high, but it’s not nonstop misery or cutthroat competition. If you’re passionate about your field, organized, and willing to ask for help when you need it, you can find a balance between academic success and having a life outside the classroom.
Luis Nario-Malberg
Mooresville, North Carolina
Harvard College, Class of 2018, A.B. in Philosophy
Experience
5 years