and academic support to students of African descent at Wellesley College. Additionally, Harambee House’s purpose is to provide enlightening cultural activities for the Wellesley College community, as well as provide educational, cultural and social activities for students, faculty and staff of African descent.
Harambee House has a mission to (1) to provide a central location for the needs of black students including studying, tutoring, and social events, while (2) serving as a cultural resource for black heritage to enlighten the college community at large. Harambee House continues to be a comfortable and welcoming space, both physically and socially. The House features a beautiful living room, library, and reception area on the upper level, and a spacious, full kitchen, student organization office, and den are located on the lower level. Computer access is also available. Students are welcome to enjoy the entire house for relaxation as well as social and academic events.
In addition, Wellesley sponsors a number of groups and organizations such as Women for Caribbean Development, Fusion, Ministry to Black Women, Graceful Harmony, National Society of Black Engineers, Sistah2Sistah and more to offer opportunities and services for students of color.
What advice do you have for an applicant that is specific to Wellesley College applicants?
Be yourself! In the application process, it is helpful for us to learn what matters to you, what your interests are, and how you may see yourself connecting with the Wellesley community.
Do you have any advice for students needing housing at Wellesley College? Is it difficult for freshman/sophomores to get housing?
Housing is guaranteed for students.
What advice do you have for students who might fall short of minimum requirements, but still want to attend?
There are no “minimum requirements” at Wellesley. The Board of Admission is looking for evidence in a student’s record, both in and out of the classroom, of her ability to meet the college’s rigorous academic standards and a willingness to engage in the community. Each student is evaluated within the context of the academic and personal experience from which they apply; in other words, we are doing our best to evaluate how a candidate may have taken advantage of the opportunities available to her at her high school and how that may have prepared her for Wellesley.
What advice do you have for applicants?
Don’t worry so much, especially about what you think admission officers are looking for. We would prefer that you dedicate your time to the things you enjoy in your high school experience and reflect thoughtfully on those experiences in the college admission process so that we may better understand who you are and what you have to offer.
What kind of opportunities do you have for non-traditional — transfer, international, students?
Wellesley admits transfer students in the fall and spring. Students must have completed at least one year of study elsewhere before they apply for admission as a transfer candidate. Financial aid is available for