Frequently Asked Questions


Table of Contents

Why FIP
Getting here
Logistics
During FIP

WHY FIP

What is FIP?
The Freshman International Program is a 3-day pre-orientation program specifically tailored to incoming international freshmen. Over the course of the program, 28 upperclassmen lead “FIPpers” through activities and panels that aim to help international freshmen get acquainted with American culture and life at Harvard. We teach you how to get around Cambridge/Boston, advise you on the best phone plans and generally show you how to have a great time at Harvard.

Who does FIP?
Most of the Harvard’s international student body has done FIP. Last year, 120 students, from more than 60 different countries participated in the program. It’s always a unique experience because FIPpers develop close friendships with fellow FIPpers and FIP leaders that are kept throughout their time at Harvard.

I signed up for Dorm Crew’s Fall Clean-up. Can I do that and FIP?
Of course! Since FIP only starts midway through the week, it is actually the only pre-orientation program that you can combine with Dorm Crew (yet another reason to do FIP!). Students will typically start with Dorm Crew for two days, meeting a bunch of cool people and making some pocket money. And when cleaning toilets becomes old and boring, they join FIP on September 2nd. This is a great combination and an amazing opportunity to meet even more fun people.


GETTING HERE

How do I get to Harvard from Logan International Airport?
Most students will be met at the Logan International Airport by FIP leaders. FIPpers should fill out this form about their incoming flight time if you would like a student to meet you.

The only flight from Timbuktu to Boston lands at 6am, and I really want a FIP leader to meet me at the airport. Is that possible?
Sure! Even at 6am, FIP leaders will come to the airport glowing with FIP love and excited about meeting you. Also, if you absolutely have to arrive a day early or late, please email us and we’ll be happy to make special arrangements if necessary.


LOGISTICS

When is FIP?
FIP starts on August 23th and will run through to August 26th.

Will I be housed during FIP?
Yes, FIPpers stay during the duration of FIP in Weld Hall, a freshman dormitory in the center of Harvard Yard. At Weld, you will share rooms with fellow FIPpers and be provided with linens and a towel. On the last day of FIP, FIPpers can move into their official freshman housing.

What do I need to bring for FIP?
The program itself does not require anything specific. However we do recommend that you bring some spending money for the week since you will have to pay for dinner two nights (approximately $10-20/dinner) and visiting Boston. While we also recommend that you bring all of your luggage, please note that FIP is not responsible for stolen or lost items (including computers, i-pods, cell phones etc.). Many people will coming in and out of Weld (such as fellow FIPpers, Dorm Crew) and on the last day of the program your luggage will be stored in a truck for most of the day.

The most important things to bring are:
  • Your passport
  • Your I-20
  • The I-94 card given to you upon entry by the immigration officer.


What about food?
During FIP, most of our meals are eaten in an upperclass dining hall, possibly in Eliot House. FIPpers will be provided with temporary dining cards that will allow them to have their meals here.

When can I move into my room?
You can move into your room, your new home for the next 9 months, after clean-up on the last day of FIP. This is usually around 3 or 4 pm but may be as late as 6 or 7 pm. See the Freshman Dean’s Office move-in guidelines for more information. You should however wait for your roommates to decide on rooms.

My parents are very sad I’m leaving home and they want to come stick with me until classes start, can they come to FIP?
Your parents can indeed stay during FIP. They will even be able to attend some FIP events and presentations, such as panels, although most events will be held exclusively for FIPpers.

DURING FIP

My uncle lives in Boston, will I have time to visit him during FIP?
Most days of the program are packed with informational panels and all sorts of fun activities, so you will not have much time to visit family and friends. Some activities are however optional and it is up to you whether you want to attend or not.

I’m allergic to some foods, I keep kosher, I’m vegan, should I let you know?
Yes! If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know so that we can inform the Harvard University Dining Services. We will be eating most of our meals in Eliot House, one of the upperclassmen houses, and they will be able to accommodate your demands (if known in advance).

Should I get a cell phone/open a bank account before coming to FIP?
There is an afternoon planned during which FIP leaders take FIPpers to shop for cell phones, open bank accounts, and buy other items you might want for your future rooms. Some panels also contain advice on picking the best plans for you, so you may want to wait for FIP before dealing with things such as cell phones and bank accounts.

WOODBRIDGE SOCIETY | HARVARD INTERNATIONAL OFFICE

Last Updated: 06/04/2008