Reed College Academic Calendar
As a Reed College alumnus, I can attest to the vibrant and dynamic academic calendar that the school has to offer. From the first day of classes to the last day of finals, there’s always something happening on campus to keep students engaged and excited about their studies. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the key events and festivals that make up the Reed College academic calendar, as well as answer some common questions about the school’s schedule.
Events and Festivals on the Reed College Academic Calendar
The Reed College academic calendar is packed with events and festivals that are designed to enhance the student experience and promote academic excellence. Some of the most popular events on the calendar include:
- Convocation
- Fall and Spring Theses Defenses
- Reed Arts Week
- Winter Externship Program
- Spring Fling
- Commencement
Convocation
Convocation is the official start of the academic year at Reed College. It’s a time for all members of the community to come together and celebrate the beginning of a new academic journey. The ceremony includes speeches from college administrators, faculty members, and student leaders, as well as the presentation of the college’s highest honors and awards.
Fall and Spring Theses Defenses
At Reed College, every student is required to complete a senior thesis as part of their undergraduate studies. These theses are presented and defended in front of a panel of faculty members and experts in the student’s field of study. The fall and spring thesis defenses are important milestones on the academic calendar, as they allow students to showcase their research and scholarship to the wider Reed community.
Reed Arts Week
Reed Arts Week is a week-long celebration of the arts at Reed College. The event includes performances, exhibitions, and workshops that showcase the creative talents of Reed students, faculty, and alumni. It’s a great opportunity for the community to come together and appreciate the power and beauty of the arts.
Winter Externship Program
The Winter Externship Program is a unique opportunity for Reed students to gain real-world experience in their field of study. Students are matched with alumni and other professionals in their chosen industry, and spend a week shadowing and learning from these experts. The program provides valuable networking opportunities and helps students to build their resumes and skills.
Spring Fling
Spring Fling is a day-long festival that celebrates the end of the academic year. The event includes music, food, games, and other fun activities that allow students to relax and unwind after a long and challenging year of study. It’s a great way to build community and celebrate the achievements of the Reed College community.
Commencement
Commencement is the culmination of the Reed College academic calendar. It’s a time for students to celebrate their achievements and reflect on their time at Reed. The ceremony includes speeches from college administrators, faculty members, and student leaders, as well as the conferring of degrees and honors. It’s a bittersweet moment, as students say goodbye to the community that has supported them throughout their academic journey.
FAQs about the Reed College Academic Calendar
Q: How long is the academic year at Reed College?
A: The academic year at Reed College runs from late August to mid-May.
Q: How many courses do students take per semester?
A: Reed College operates on a trimester system, with students typically taking three courses per term.
Q: What is the grading system at Reed College?
A: Reed College has a unique grading system that emphasizes narrative evaluations over letter grades. Professors provide detailed written feedback on each student’s work, rather than assigning a grade.
Q: What is the role of the Honor Principle at Reed College?
A: The Honor Principle is a central tenet of the Reed College community. It emphasizes honesty, integrity, and respect for others, and encourages students to take responsibility for their own academic and personal conduct.
Q: How are students supported academically at Reed College?
A: Reed College has a robust support system in place for students who need academic assistance. The school offers tutoring, study groups, and other resources to help students succeed in their coursework.
Conclusion
Overall, the Reed College academic calendar is a rich and diverse tapestry of events, festivals, and celebrations. From Convocation to Commencement, students are provided with a wealth of opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed. Whether you’re a prospective student, current student, or alum, the Reed College academic calendar is sure to inspire and excite you.