First-Year International Program
The First-Year International Program (FIP) is for international students and US residents who have lived and studied primarily overseas. In FIP, about 40 upperclass leaders mentor approximately 150 incoming freshmen, introducing them to Harvard and helping them adjust to life in the United States. Specifically, participants receive foundational information for a happy, successful start at Harvard, including sessions and discussions about American culture, immigration, and academics in the US and at Harvard. Participants are also able to set up a bank account and cell phone service. Through its emphasis on inclusion and belonging, FIP creates new friendships at the same time it cultivates the larger international community at Harvard.