Winthrop House, May 4-May 11, 2020

He does this at least three times per walk.

Dear Winthrop,

I took a much needed tech break over the weekend and I highly recommend it even if it is just for 24 hours. Obviously you have final assignments and such to do so maybe plan for it the moment you turn in your last bit of work. I promise you it's worth it!

A quick reminder that you can and should reach out to our wonderful and amazing new Academic Coordinator, Sarah Caughey for your general academic questions at winthropassistant@fas.harvard.edu. And always reach out to her directly for signature requests. I know that many of you have concerns on what this new world will look like around jobs. Well, Sarah started this job remotely in March! So, not only is she a valued insight on this new reality but she's joined us without meeting any of you. Shoot her a note introducing yourself, welcoming her to the House and thanking her for taking such a huge leap with us!

A follow-up note on Harvard Summer School CREDIT as a number of you have asked whether you can petition to receive credit for courses not included in the approved list of HSS courses available.  Unfortunately, this list is approved by the faculty and the Office of Undergraduate Education is unable to grant exceptions for individual students. So it's important that you understand that summer scholarships can only support courses that are eligible for Harvard College credit. The Harvard College FAQ has details about many of these policies.

Thanks to all of you who could make it to the Winthrop House FD Candidate remote interviews last week. This is such a chaotic and stressful time for everyone and it means so much -- and says so much about your investment and love of Winthrop! -- that you could give your very valuable time and energy to engage in something that feels so extra at this time.

Speaking of finals, always always always ask for help. DO NOT HOLD IT IN. If you suspect you have too much going on, say so and see what support you can get. Worst case scenario: you're right back where you started. So email your professors, CC me. Your professors can grant extensions up through May 16th. Anything beyond that will go through me and the Ad Board so just please be in touch!

Reminders that the Academic Resource Center is (remotely) open and there to support and advise you through study skills and time management.

And do check out these very helpful online resources from CAMHS on Courage, Presence and Resilience in these times and more. Don't hesitate to call the front desk at 617-495-2042 or use the patient portal to request an appointment including a same-day appointment if so needed.

Finally, I don't have any new news about what will happen this Fall. Same goes for leaves of absence. Nothing has changed in policy and when I know anything different I will make sure you know in proper time!