Harvard University

Harvard University, ranked as the number one school in the country, is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just 5 miles from Downtown Boston. Not only is it one of the most prestigious schools, Harvard is also the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Founded in 1636, Harvard was originally known as “New College.” In 1639, it was renamed Harvard University after John Harvard became the school’s first benefactor. Known as a Doctoral/Research University, the school offers Bachelor’s, Graduate’s, and Doctor’s degrees. Their academic calendar is by semester and it is a private not-for-profit institution. Harvard has the largest academic library in the world with 18.9 million volumes, around 400 million manuscript items, 10 million photos, and more. Sitting on 210 acres, there is plenty to explore and do at the school including visiting the Charles River, Harvard Yard, or the Natural History Museum. Harvard’s motto of Veritas–Latin for “Truth”–fits in with the school’s history, academics, and mission. At any given time, there are about 28,791 students attending the University, with 10,338 undergraduates and 18,453 graduates. Harvard has produced some astounding names in their alumni, including eight presidents, sixty-two living billionaires, hundreds of scholars, and 48 Pulitzer Prize winners. Some notable names include Theodore Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, President Barack Obama, Bill Gates, and Mark Zuckerburg. Harvard University is steeped in history, influence, and tradition–it’s no wonder Harvard is considered one of the best schools in the United States.