The Extension School is open to everyone. Expect to work — hard.
On a sunny Thursday last September, more than 400 people crowded into the pews in Harvard’s Memorial Church, wearing identical crimson lanyards with the words “Continuing Education” printed on the strap. The mood was giddy, with a touch of newcomer jitters. Many had traveled across the country—or even the world—to attend this convocation ceremony for students newly admitted to a degree program at one of the largest and least talked-about parts of the University: the Harvard Extension School.
Nancy Coleman, the dean of the Division of Continuing Education (DCE), which houses the Extension School, looked out at the sea of students. Many were in their 30s, 40s, or older, and would spend the next few years taking remote classes at night and on weekends, while juggling full-time jobs and family responsibilities. Coleman told them that they were now Harvard students. “Wherever you are coming from, whatever your story, know this,” she said, “you are welcome here.” She paused, then emphasized again, “You belong here.”
