Insider’s Guide to RC Orientation

Andrew O'Connor
Andrew O’Connor
Erica Son
Erica Son

RC’s, welcome to HBS! My name is Andrew O’Connor and I’ve been helping coordinate RC orientation week. Look no further to find a guide to highlights of RC Orientation, the week of activities planned by the HBS Student Association to help you get settled on campus, and get to know your section and fellow RC’s.

 

Small Group Brunches/Dinners and Into Boston Activities

Saturday, August 27th and Sunday, August 28th, various times

Starting in a class of 900+ students can feel a bit overwhelming! That’s why we’ve set up small group meals and Into Boston activities so that you can start things off by meeting a small group of other RC’s on the first weekend. You never know who you will meet at one of these events – last year, I met fellow SA member Quinn Fitzgerald at a dinner she arranged (for those of us who missed the official sign-up deadline…) and someone who quickly became one of my closest friends at HBS on an “Into Boston” activity. If you are feeling a bit shy or anxious about meeting so many new people all at once, this is a great way to start off with a small group.

 Section Reveal Pajama Party

Monday, August 29th, 6:45 AM, Gallatin Lounge

Your section and the seating chart for the first term will be revealed online at 7 AM, and we are organizing a Pajama Party on Baker Lawn starting at 6:45 AM if you want to be in a more festive atmosphere when you learn which section you are in. Coffee and light breakfast will be provided. This is a new event we are launching this year, and we want to emphasize that you should only attend this event if it’s convenient for you. Monday is a big day at the beginning of a big week, and you should start it comfortably. If you live really far off-campus, for example, don’t feel the need to travel in early in pajamas, only to change into business formal for the Burden session. There will be plenty of other opportunities to meet your fellow RC’s!

 Meeting the EC Ambassador Team

EC Ambassador lunch: Monday, August 29th, 12:10, Aldrich classrooms

Ask an EC on the Lawn: Wednesday, August 31st, 1 – 4 PM, Spangler Lawn

The EC Ambassador lunch session is your first chance to meet your section’s EC Ambassadors. There will be a period of Q&A, so feel free to think of any questions you might have for second-year students. The session’s intended to be a relaxing, informal and informative part of your first day.

Then on Wednesday, drop by Spangler Lawn anytime between 1 PM and 4 PM for ice cream and a chance to mingle with the EC Ambassadors and ask any questions.

Wellness Kick-Off

Wednesday, August 31st, 9:15 – 10:45 AM, Spangler Lawn

HBS puts tremendous resources into wellness initiatives – they are a really great benefit for students. In the whirlwind of the first term, however, it can be challenging to find the time to figure out what’s offered by the school. Be sure to stop by to learn about the wellness resources HBS offers so that you can take advantage of them from day one!

 Building Culture and Community at HBS

Wednesday, August 31st, 3:00 – 4:30 PM, Williams Room

The class of 2018 comes from all over the world and has an incredible list of achievements. Join us for a fun event focused on celebrating the diversity of the RC class and get a chance to connect with fellow classmates from different backgrounds. The session includes a guest speaker and the opportunity for discussion and engagement with your fellow RC’s.The Class of 2018 comes from all over the world and has an incredible list of achievements. Join us for a fun event focused on celebrating the diversity of the RC class and get a chance to connect with fellow classmates from different backgrounds. You won’t want to miss out on the snacks and the chance to meet more people

Casino Night

Friday, September 2nd at the Westin Waterfront Boston; buses leaving Spangler from 7:30 PM

This is your chance to cap off the end of your first full week at HBS by celebrating with your section and the wider RC Class. It’s one of the only free parties at HBS, and is typically a memorable opportunity for section bonding. It was the highlight of Orientation week for me, and I highly recommend it!

 Field Day

Saturday, September 3rd, 11 AM. Meet at Burden Auditorium

Starting at 11 AM (to give you a bit of time to sleep off Casino Night!) this is a fun, light-hearted competition between sections. No athletic ability required – think things like egg toss and limbo.