Harvard in News on 12/4/2024

Microsoft’s Satya Nadella didn’t aim his career at the top job he now holds. In fact, when his boss sent him to head Bing, he also told him, “If you go to Bing and don’t do a good job…it might just be your last job.” Nadella told the story on a 2017 episode of HBR’s IdeaCast.

The 2025 Under 30 AI list has been unveiled

Forbes introduced a new Under 30 category for AI in 2025, recognizing young innovators diving into the booming AI industry. With the global AI market projected to reach $631 billion by 2028, these entrepreneurs are raising billions to build transformative technologies. U.S. investors alone funneled $27 billion into AI startups from April to June, fueling this modern gold rush and seeking the next tech giants like Microsoft or Apple. This cohort is shaping how we live, work, and create in an AI-driven future.

Take Haize Labs, cofounded by Harvard graduates Leonard Tang, 22, Richard Liu, 22, and Steve Li, 23, came together in 2023 to start Haize Labs, a startup that uses machine learning systems to stress test AI models and discover vulnerabilities under the hood before they are shipped to the public. Its algorithms help prevent AI systems from creating toxic content, spreading misinformation and coughing up sensitive user information. The company's systems are used by the likes of Anthropic, A121, ScaleAI and most recently OpenAI to jailbreak its latest "o1" models. Haize Labs has raised $12 million in seed funding and stands at a $100 million valuation. 

Survey Says Harvard College Freshmen Split on Pro-Palestine Campus Activism

Harvard's Class of 2028 entered amid heightened pro-Palestine activism, with students divided on the issue: 38% viewed it favorably, 24% unfavorably, and the rest were neutral or uninformed. The Crimson's freshman survey revealed political divides, with progressive students overwhelmingly supporting activism and the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, while conservatives opposed them. Nationally, freshmen leaned progressive, favoring Kamala Harris and disapproving of Donald Trump. Concerns about campus free speech rose slightly compared to past years, though most supported efforts to promote academic freedom through initiatives like the Intellectual Vitality program introduced during orientation.

69% of Freshman Class Entered College as Virgins, Survey Finds

Harvard’s Class of 2028 survey reveals 69% of freshmen entered college as virgins, reflecting broader declines in teen sexual activity. Interest in exclusive social organizations like final clubs correlates with higher family incomes, while drug and alcohol use remains low, with 46.4% never drinking alcohol. Mental health counseling usage has risen steadily, with Hispanic/Latinx students most likely to seek help. Career aspirations include government, health, and consulting, with lower-income students favoring consulting. AI use in high school coursework was reported by one-third of respondents, though most freshmen hesitate to rely on AI in college.

Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson ’92 Judges Ames Moot Court Final at HLS

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson ’92 presided over the Harvard Law School Ames Moot Court competition on November 19, where students debated a Second Amendment case. Jackson, alongside judges Patti Saris ’73 and Joan Larsen, judged the final round. The competition, a prestigious annual event at HLS since 1911, featured the Constance Baker Motley Memorial Team, which won "Best Overall Team" and "Best Brief," and the Sandra Day O'Connor Memorial Team, whose member Emily R. Malpass ’21 won "Best Oralist." Jackson praised the high level of performance, noting it made the decision very challenging.

Harvard College Will Place Students on Involuntary Leave for Missing 2 Weeks of Class

Harvard College will enforce a Student Handbook amendment in the 2025-26 academic year, mandating that students who miss two weeks of classes are placed on involuntary leave "in most cases." The policy aims to reinforce in-person attendance amid rising expectations for online classes post-COVID-19. While faculty argue this clarifies existing practices, students worry it may hinder professional pursuits like startups, athletics, or acting. The policy specifies that course recordings cannot replace attendance, aligning with Harvard’s commitment to residential education, though accommodations for documented disabilities remain unaffected.

Melody Cao ’26, a Computer Science and Economics concentrator, expressed concern about Harvard’s new attendance policy, citing its impact on balancing her professional acting career with academics. Having previously taken two weeks off for a TV project, she noted that students in fields like hers might find catching up easier through recorded lectures, unlike majors requiring intensive in-person engagement. Cao criticized the policy’s rigidity for limiting flexibility, while Harvard’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) declined to address student criticisms.

At Final Fall Meeting, HUA Allocates Funds for Airport Shuttles, Reading Period Event

At its final general meeting of the semester, the Harvard Undergraduate Association (HUA) allocated funds for several initiatives, including a $10,000 airport shuttle program to provide free transportation from River and Quad Houses to Logan Airport for students during winter break. The shuttle program addresses concerns over expensive taxis and rideshare costs. Additionally, the HUA allocated $400 for a “reading period recharge” event with free hot chocolate and cookies for students preparing for exams. HUA Inclusion Team Officer Lily E. Liu ’25 mentioned that the team also added $1,000 to the Affordable Laundry Initiative, expanding access to free laundry detergent, while the Extracurricular Team introduced a new Student Organization Leadership Council to connect HUA with club leaders. Furthermore, the HUA's successful Harvard-Yale merchandise fundraiser raised funds for student organizations.

How China tariffs could backfire on U.S. - Asia scholar says they could spark higher prices, supply-chain disruptions for Americans — and possibly help Beijing weaken our ties to allies

President-elect Donald Trump’s plan to impose high tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China could severely impact China's struggling economy, economists warn, but it may also hurt the U.S. economy by raising consumer prices and disrupting supply chains. While China is concerned about the potential for a 60% tariff on its goods, it is also preparing for possible negotiations. China's trade diversification efforts, such as its Belt and Road Initiative, aim to reduce reliance on U.S. exports, but experts note it remains difficult to replace the U.S. market. Trump’s trade policies might inadvertently foster closer ties between China and U.S. allies, further destabilizing relations and potentially harming the U.S. long-term.

Harvard Affiliates Call on South Korean President to Resign Over Martial Law Declaration

By William C. Mao and Dhruv T. Patel

A group of 36 South Korean Harvard affiliates, including 35 students and one faculty member, urged South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to resign after his brief imposition of martial law sparked mass protests. In their statement, they criticized Yoon's actions as undemocratic and harmful to South Korea's global reputation as a democratic model. Yoon declared martial law amidst political turmoil but lifted it after backlash from protesters and lawmakers. The group condemned Yoon for endangering democratic principles and challenged his commitment to freedom, calling his actions contradictory to his prior pro-democracy rhetoric at Harvard.

[Editorials] Turkeys and Gratitude: What Our Editors Are Thankful For

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, Harvard Crimson's editors reflected on what they are grateful for, from places and people to experiences and support systems. Many expressed gratitude for physical spaces like the Charles, Plympton Street, and specific Houses such as Eliot and Mather, where they find community. Others appreciated the contributions of campus staff, friends, and family, as well as moments like late-night dining hall conversations and formals. Teaching assistants and course staff were also highlighted for their essential role in students’ learning. Overall, the reflections emphasize the importance of community, support, and shared experiences at Harvard.

[Columns] The Season of Sickness is Here

The editorial argues that Harvard's current approach to handling student illness is insufficient, especially given the high rates of respiratory illnesses on campus. The lack of academic accommodations for sick students forces them to choose between attending class while potentially infecting others or falling behind. Suggestions include mandatory live recordings of lectures for sick students, more flexible attendance policies, and virtual office hours. Additionally, the editorial advocates for better ventilation in dorms and common spaces to reduce illness transmission. The overall message is that Harvard must prioritize student health without compromising academic rigor.

[Op Eds] Why Do Harvard Students Hate Harvard So Much?

Harvard students often complain about issues like subpar food, tough classes, and imperfect dorms, despite attending one of the best universities in the world. This dissatisfaction stems from the stark contrast between the idealized image of Harvard and the reality of college life. After years of hard work to gain admission, students face normal challenges, such as difficult coursework, failure, and hyper-competitiveness. While careerism and pressure to pursue high-paying jobs contribute to frustration, the article argues that these experiences are essential for personal growth. Ultimately, Harvard students are urged to appreciate their opportunities and embrace the challenges.

Flyby: Every Harvard Square Ice Cream Place, Ranked

A comprehensive ranking of seven ice cream spots in Harvard Square highlights J.P. Licks (8.4/10) as the top choice, offering nostalgic flavors like Brownie Brownie Batter. Van Leeuwen (8.25/10) follows closely, praised for unique flavors like Banana Bread Pudding with Fudge Swirls, and Amorino (8.25/10) stands out for its creamy pistachio and refreshing mango sorbet. Ben & Jerry’s (5.25/10) is a classic but pricey option, while Lizzy’s Homemade Ice Cream (5/10) offers a homemade vibe but lacks consistency. Taiyaki (4.5/10) impresses with its Asian-inspired flavors but falls short in taste, and Berryline (3.4/10) ranks lowest due to disappointing flavors and texture.