A BOOK FOR FRESHMEN

The vital problem of transition between school and college still bulks large. Despite occasional flashes in the plan of reform, no vigorous constructive action has ameliorated the present crying need. Now is the time to hew out some new policy with which to deal with the inrush of next fall's Freshmen who may otherwise receive the usual laissez faire reception.

Freshmen entering Harvard are whirled quickly along a course of life strikingly unfamiliar. They are buffeted about in a highly individual and complex world. Before they can gain their equilibrium, it is demanded of them that they be quite orientated. Only the prematurely fit who quickly adapt themselves survive. Experiences teaches, but its methods are needlessly harsh.

More preparation for, more introduction to the phenomena of Harvard College life is necessary. The institutions existing to serve this purpose are sadly inadequate or only tepidlx efficient in their sphere a few addresses and receptions a sheaf of formal official information an inaccessible Dean, a system of Senior advisers obviously imperfect. The need is urgent for some in situation which shall not make new demands on Freshman time, but which will disseminate a comprehensive mass of useful information, general and specific, to each man before he undertakes his Harvard career.

The publication of an official hand-book would help tremendously. Mailed to the prospective Freshman during the summer, its contents could be digested thoroughly. Such a book would cover briefly the organization of the College, its history, its machinery, its educational policies and opportunities, its standards, its extra-curricular activities, its individual characteristics, in a word, the very nature of Harvard.

For example, one chapter might well be devoted to a detailed and sympathetic description of University administrative system, to be written by a Dean who has had many years experience with incoming Freshmen. Another might well reprint the Register's description of the club system. Again, a series of articles on the organization and conduct of undergraduate activities--athletic, literary managerial, debating, dramatic, written by the present captains, managers, and presidents would prove of inestimable, value in acquainting the sub-Freshman with the nature of the world in which he is to live. Other headings suggest themselves at once.

With the organization of the College and its more obvious traditions clearly in mind, the Freshman would enter prepared to absorb that more intangible spirit which is the essence of Harvard, but which can never be set down in black and white. He would moreover, feel less of a foundling and make fewer of those mistakes which mar college careers. To parents, too such a book would prove invaluable in acquainting them with the present problems their sours have to face.