Rob - Ed.L.D. Candidate

Hi NoChance. Good questions. I have been pleasantly surprised at how supportive HGSE is to each student, no matter the program, and how close-knit the HGSE community is in general. 
 
Perhaps a bit of context might help. This year at HGSE, about 600 Master's Degree candidates from various programs and interests at HGSE were admitted for one year (in a few cases two). Cohorts of 25 Ed.L.D. and 25 Ed.D. students were admitted, joining  multiple 2nd year and beyond doctoral students. The HGSE consists of three buildings: Gutman library, Larsen Hall, and Longfellow Hall, all within a few feet of each other on Appian way. The majority of the courses are integrated, though the sheer numbers definitely favor Master's Degree students. Students of all programs seem to make an effort to reach out of their own program to form contacts and networks in other areas.
 
Because the buildings are so close together and because we take some of the same courses and study together, HGSE students cross paths a lot. We are on a first name basis with our professors, which kind of symbolizes the type of collegiality that I've found. While I have only interacted with my own professors, they have all been available for lunches, office hours, and other kinds of help. I've found mine to be highly accomplished, yet very responsive and helpful. I would say that the teaching here ranges from good to amazing. All course evaluations (a requirement for you to get your grade) are published for students to read before selecting classes.
 
The tough part is probably getting admitted. Once you are there, they provide a lot of support. And the resources and access to all Harvard students is absolutely incredible. 
 
Now what I have said about HGSE may not carry over to other schools. I have noticed that other schools (Business, Law, Harvard College, etc.) function as separate silos. You'll notice a lot of disparity from one school to the next (even cultural and practical ways of doing business), which may affect you if you choose to take courses in other schools. I also hold out the possibility that things can get worse as time goes on, but so far, it has been outstanding.

Hi NoChance. Good questions. I have been pleasantly surprised at how supportive HGSE is to each student, no matter the program, and how close-knit the HGSE community is in general. 
 
Perhaps a bit of context might help. This year at HGSE, about 600 Master's Degree candidates from various programs and interests at HGSE were admitted for one year (in a few cases two). Cohorts of 25 Ed.L.D. and 25 Ed.D. students were admitted, joining  multiple 2nd year and beyond doctoral students. The HGSE consists of three buildings: Gutman library, Larsen Hall, and Longfellow Hall, all within a few feet of each other on Appian way. The majority of the courses are integrated, though the sheer numbers definitely favor Master's Degree students. Students of all programs seem to make an effort to reach out of their own program to form contacts and networks in other areas.
 
Because the buildings are so close together and because we take some of the same courses and study together, HGSE students cross paths a lot. We are on a first name basis with our professors, which kind of symbolizes the type of collegiality that I've found. While I have only interacted with my own professors, they have all been available for lunches, office hours, and other kinds of help. I've found mine to be highly accomplished, yet very responsive and helpful. I would say that the teaching here ranges from good to amazing. All course evaluations (a requirement for you to get your grade) are published for students to read before selecting classes.
 
The tough part is probably getting admitted. Once you are there, they provide a lot of support. And the resources and access to all Harvard students is absolutely incredible. 
 
Now what I have said about HGSE may not carry over to other schools. I have noticed that other schools (Business, Law, Harvard College, etc.) function as separate silos. You'll notice a lot of disparity from one school to the next (even cultural and practical ways of doing business), which may affect you if you choose to take courses in other schools. I also hold out the possibility that things can get worse as time goes on, but so far, it has been outstanding.

I am a new Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D.) candidate at HGSE this year. I'm happy to answer any questions or be of service in any way if you are looking to apply this fall.

I am a new Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D.) candidate at HGSE this year. I'm happy to answer any questions or be of service in any way if you are looking to apply this fall.