Among Tourists in the Yard
Across the yard, Memorial Church resonates with the sounds of French, Spanish, and Mandarin as tour guides lead groups of fifty past students cramming for their Stat 110 midterm. The faint scent of urine lingers in the air as tourists line up to touch the gleaming foot of John Harvard on a beautiful Sunday morning.
Student Life and Tourist Presence
At University Hall, the steps of Widener Library are full of students enjoying their $8 oatmilk-matcha-lattes while reading vintage copies of Hamlet. Many students see the millions of tourists visiting Harvard annually as a minor inconvenience—an unexpected obstacle on their way to class or a spontaneous game of parkour.
Tourists' Perspectives
When speaking with visitors, a deeper appreciation for the college experience emerges. Thomas, sitting on the steps of University Hall, was approached by two FM reporters. She described Harvard as “iconic,” inspired by the “massive old trees canvassing the campus.”
“Iconic,” — Thomas on Harvard’s atmosphere.
Thomas had last visited Harvard twenty years ago for the wedding of Quintana’s daughter at Memorial Church.
Quintana, a Cambridge resident for eight years, shared warm memories of the university. She recalled the “peace” felt while walking through the Yard and how it felt like a “loved” institution.
“The peace of walking through the Yard and becoming immersed in such a loved institution.” — Quintana
Admiration for Harvard
The respect visitors hold for Harvard goes beyond the beauty of the campus, reflecting a profound connection to its history and serenity.
Author's summary: Tourists' admiration for Harvard reveals the university’s unique blend of historic beauty and peaceful atmosphere, enriching both visitors' and students' campus experiences.