Hi First Years!
This site serves as a central source of information for first-year students at Barnard. There will be regular updates with explanations of academic policies, procedures and deadlines; information from academic programs and departments; and announcements about opportunities for fellowships, grants and scholarships -- so bookmark this site and check it often!
Wednesday, April 24, 2024
We are Hiring!!
Monday, April 22, 2024
TODAY is the last day to withdraw from a class
Hi First-Years,
This is a friendly reminder that today at 5pm is the deadline to withdraw from a Spring 2024 course. You can do so via the Slate withdrawal form. Also, remember that you have one more week (until Monday, April 29th at 5pm) to declare pass/d/fail for a Spring 2024 course.
Please note that you will need written advisor approval to submit for withdrawal from a course.
Friday, April 12, 2024
Registration Guidance: Chemistry
If you are planning on enrolling in CHEM BC2001 General Chemistry I in Fall 2024, please read the following carefully:
There is one single General Chemistry course for all students at Barnard, regardless of their high school chemistry coursework. The Chemistry Department and the College have various mechanisms in place to provide support to students who are interested in taking CHEM BC2001 and have little to no prior experience in chemistry.
The introductory chemistry sequence at Barnard for Chemistry and Biochemistry majors as well as students on the pre-health professional track is one semester of General Chemistry followed by two consecutive semesters of Organic Chemistry. What course students take in their fourth semester of chemistry depends on whether they are a chemistry/biochemistry major or minor or on the pre-health track.
General Chemistry I at Barnard is a five-credit integrated lecture+lab course. Students must enroll in a section of both CHEM BC2001 and CHEM BC2012. All the course credits are associated with the CHEM BC2001 listing. There are no credits associated with the CHEM BC2012 course, but you still must have a section of this course on your program. There is no additional recitation and/or discussion section.
General Chemistry I at Barnard is only offered in the fall semester.
In Fall 2024, General Chemistry lecture will be offered on Monday and Wednesday afternoons from 1:10 PM-2:25 PM (Section 01), 2:40-3:55 PM (Section 02), and 4:10-5:25 PM (Section 03). All sections are identical in content and structure. You must register for one section.
In Fall 2024, General Chemistry lab will be offered Monday through Friday from 8:10 AM-12:00 PM. All sections are identical in content and structure. You must register for one section.
Note: please be sure to choose a lab section that does not present conflicts with your other courses, responsibilities, and/or personal obligations. Enrollment in the lab sections is limited due to space constraints and safety considerations, and it may not be possible to switch lab sections at a later date.
All students who try to register for a section of CHEM BC2012 will initially be placed on a waitlist. Students will be admitted to the course, as space allows, throughout the registration period.
Students enrolling in BOTH General Chemistry (CHEM BC2001/2012) AND Intro Bio (BIOL BC1500/1501) will need to register for the Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday morning Gen Chem lab section as the Bio lecture course meets on Monday and Wednesday mornings. If you are planning on taking both Gen Chem and Intro Bio this fall please also complete this brief Google form by Wed., April 17th.
Questions can be directed to genchem@barnard.edu.
We look forward to working with you this fall! Questions can be directed to genchem@barnard.edu.
The Gen Chem team
Commuter Student Study Spaces
Hi First Years!
The Non-Residential Support Office, SEE, and the Deans' Office are excited to announce that they are hosting commuter student study spaces later this month! Check out the flyer for information.
Friday, April 5, 2024
Academic Coaching Drop In Hours!
Thursday, April 4, 2024
It's that Time of Year Again...Course Registration!
Wednesday, April 3, 2024
P/D/F/W Deadline Extended
Hi First-Years!
As many of you might have seen, the deadline for P/D/F/W has been extended for the Spring Semester 2024.
If you would like to Pass/D/Fail your course, please do so on SSOL by April 29, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. EDT. For those looking to withdraw from a course, please do so by April 22, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. EDT.
Make sure to plan ahead and consult your dean or academic advisors if you have any questions regarding your coursework and academics at Barnard. If you would like to read more about the P/D/F/W policies, refer to our previous blog post or check out the Registrar's website.
As always, if you have any questions, please reach out to the First Year Team at first-year@barnard.edu
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
Summer Session at Barnard is Live!
Hi first-years!
It’s that exciting part of the year where we are inching closer to Summer every single day. And for some of you that might mean…SUMMER CLASSES!
What is Summer Session at Barnard?
Summer Session is an opportunity for students to complete 3-credit or 4-credit courses in 6 week periods. There are two sessions: Session A which is from May 20th - June 28th and Session B which is from July 1st - August 9th. Therefore you can choose whichever session works best for your schedule this summer.
How Do I Register?
You must register for any summer courses in SSOL. As a Barnard student, make sure to register for Section 001 of the corresponding course. Registration is live right now!
Can I Drop a Course After Registration?
Once the summer session begins, you cannot drop your only class on SSOL. Please email the Barnard registrar at registrar@barnard.edu, to request the drop or withdrawal from a summer course.
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You can also declare p/d/f/withdraw from a summer course. The deadline is June 17th for Session A and July 29th for Session B.What About Logistics Such as Housing or Food?
Barnard students can apply for housing if they choose to stay on campus during the summer. However, housing is guaranteed for all participants so make sure to keep that in mind.
In regards to dining, Liz’s Place and Hewitt will be open for the summer. There will be no meal plan options available but rather you will just pay at the door.
How Much Is It?
Summer Session Tuition is $6,408 per 3-credit course and $8,544 per 4-credit course.
Limited financial assistance is available for Barnard students who received a financial aid award during the academic year. Barnard students will be assessed for summer financial assistance to enroll in a Barnard course automatically upon course registration for Barnard summer session classes therefore there’s no application for you to complete.
What About Taking Classes at Columbia? Or Other Institutions?
Registration for Columbia summer courses are also available on SSOL. Barnard students who are interested in taking courses at Columbia should fill out a Summer Course Approval Form, in order to have the course(s) reviewed for potential transfer credit. Please note that, if approved, the credit and grades will be treated as transfer credit and will not count in a student’s Barnard GPA.
In regards to taking courses at other institutions, credit for summer courses taken at other accredited institutions (including Columbia summer session) is treated as transfer credit and requires approval by your adviser and the Registrar’s Office. These classes must be in-person, meet for at least 35 hours, and meet for at least 5 weeks. To read more about the regulations, check out this link.
That’s it for our short rundown on Summer Session at Barnard. If you have any other questions, you might find your answer on the Summer Session Website or you can email summersession@barnard.edu.
Monday, April 1, 2024
Education Program Drop-In Planning Hours
Good afternoon everybody!
Interested in studying Education? The Education Program is hosting an exciting opportunity to chat with faculty about your Fall 2024 plans through Program Planning Drop-In Hours! Check out the schedule below and drop by Milstein to meet the faculty and ask any questions you have about classes or requirements.
Friday, March 29, 2024
Lilja's Office Hours on Zoom Today
Happy Friday, First Years!
My office hours, which are held from 10a-12p (every Friday!) will be on Zoom today. Here's the link: https://us05web.zoom.us/j/88600011761?pwd=wd3tawACx6AFUP48MbXO6bpDbbLFsJ.1
Stop by if you have any questions about classes or policies!
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Morningside Heights Spring Bucket List
Hi First-Years!
Spring is approaching! That means the days are longer, the sun is warmer, and Barnard students far and wide emerge from hibernation. To celebrate the season, we’re here with a list of little-known Morningside Heights gems for you to check out – whether it’s a friend group excursion or a date for yourself, these museums and restaurants are a great way to spend an afternoon.
1. Nicholas Roerich Museum
Located on 107th St between Broadway and Riverside, this three-story museum is dedicated entirely to the work of Russian-born artist Nicholas Roerich. A painter, writer, and collector, Roerich’s works reflect his travels all over the world, both in content and form. Admission to the museum is free, and more information on visiting, the collection, and other events hosted by the Roerich museum is available at their website.
2. Saint John the Divine
Go a step further than eating your Hungarian pastry on the steps of St. John and take a look inside! This iconic Morningside Heights landmark (the largest cathedral in the country!) is just as beautiful on the inside as it is from the outside, and offers secular cultural events in addition to religious. You are invited to take a self-guided or public guided tour, and can even climb to the top of the cathedral! Tickets are $10 for a self-guided tour and $15-20 for a guided tour. Be sure to check out their website for your timed-entry ticket, as well as any exciting events that may be coming up.
3. General Grant’s Tomb
While we’re on the topic of huge, beautiful buildings, I’ll mention that Barnard is only a few short blocks from North America’s largest mausoleum – known colloquially as Grant’s Tomb. Located between beautiful Riverside and Sakura Parks, the memorial is a relaxing, uncrowded place to soak up some rays in the warm months.
4. Wallach Art Gallery
Located in the beautiful Lenfest Center for the Arts on 129th Street, the Wallach Art Gallery is free and open to the public. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 12-6pm, Wallach showcases both student and professional exhibitions. Right now, you can see work from New Delhi-based photographer Gauri Gill and mixed-media artist Rosemary Mayer. Stay tuned to their website for more information on upcoming events and exhibitions.
5. Westsider Books
You’re going to have to take a stroll for this one, but I promise it’s worth it. Westsider Books, on 81st and Broadway, is a treasure trove of used books, plays, CDs, art, and more. Westsider dominates the Pinterest bookstore aesthetic, and while you would never just go for your camera roll (we know you’re quirky like that), the vibes are everything. If you love squeezing between narrow shelves and discovering used books you would never have otherwise read, then Westsider is the place for you.
6. La Salle Dumpling
For all of you who are tired of the same options at Milano, Chipotle, and Junzi, we’ll move onto the food portion of the guide. First up is La Salle Dumpling Room, found just north of campus on Broadway and La Salle. This cozy little restaurant is perfect for a date night or delivery. From scallion pancakes to kimchi bao to pork belly ramen, find out for yourself if La Salle really is what it claims to be: “The Best Asian Food in New York”.
7. V&T Pizza
New York, 1945. Two World War II veterans, Vincent and Tony Curcurato, have just returned from the war and are opening their very own restaurant and pizzeria. Even today, the original atmosphere of V&T’s, which has occupied its 110th and Amsterdam location for nearly 75 years, is preserved. Just past the Hungarian Pastry Stop, V&T’s is my go-to place for authentic New York Italian: pizza, pasta, chicken parm, cannolis, you name it! Be sure to check out this ideal birthday dinner location the next time you’re craving something homestyle and heartwarming.
8. Silver Moon Bakery
If you’ve walked down Broadway to get to Trader Joe’s or Broadway Bagels, then you’ve seen Silver Moon Bakery – or maybe you’ve smelled it. When you walk in, you find yourself tucked between high trays of freshly baked bread and pastries. The bustling people and voices behind the counter welcome you in, and they move the line along so efficiently that you almost don’t have time to decide which of the tempting baked goods to choose from! One of my favorite places for a quick breakfast date and some people-watching from their sidewalk seating, Silver Moon has been a quintessential Morningside Heights neighborhood joint since its opening in 2000. Spring is the perfect time to check out their seasonal breads!
9. Samad’s
You may not even know it, but you’ve spent this whole year walking past a top-notch Middle Eastern/Mediterranean deli with a $5 bacon egg and cheese. So next time you’re down on 111th, stop by Samad’s Gourmet for all sorts of Middle Eastern treats, drinks, and ingredients. In the back, you’ll find the deli, with trays of stuffed grape leaves and hummus, and some killer breakfast options. Toward the front are piles of baked goods and dates, and a smiling face behind the register. Everyone at Samad’s is super friendly, the service is quick, and you’ll spend half of what you would at Wu & Nuss and other breakfast spots. Five gold stars!
Now that you have your list of little-known local joints, you are ready to explore the neighborhood more in these coming warm days. Getting outside and trying new things is a great way to give yourself a revitalizing break during the stress of finals, and to reward yourself for all your hard work! Happy Spring, everyone!
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
Coming Up: Political Science Program Planning Meeting
Hi first-years!
For those who are prospective political science majors, the Political Science Department will be posting their Spring Program Planning meeting next Wednesday, April 3rd from 1-2 PM in Milstein LL001. Make sure to register by scanning the QR code on the flier below. This is a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the political science major at Barnard and classes that will be offered next semester!
Coming Up: Biology Program Planning Meeting
Hi first-years!
As we enter our last full month of this school year, we have loads of department meetings for you all to attend. The Biology Department will be hosting a program planning meeting on Friday, April 5th from 1-2 PM in Diana LL 103. This is a great opportunity to learn about the Fall 2024 coursework and ask any questions you may have about pursuing a biology major. Make sure to scan the QR code on the poster below to register!
Friday, March 22, 2024
Speaking Fellow Application EXTENDED
Hi again!
Good news: the deadline to apply to become a Barnard Speaking Fellow has been extended! You now have until Friday, March 29th, at 11:59pm to apply to join the team. Speaking fellows create learning environments that empower students to explore, question, and reflect on their speaking and listening skills, and becoming a speaking fellow is a great way to build your own public speaking and professional skills. Relevant links below!
Link to apply: https://forms.gle/MZTfYC1NFBDdgeRc8
Meet with a Speaking Fellow about the application: speaking.mywconline.com
Learn more: barnard.edu/speaking-center
Contact us: speaking@barnard.edu
Barnard Bold Conference Dates and Info!
Happy Friday, First Years!
We have just received the information for this year's Barnard Bold Conference! The Barnard Bold Conference facilitates conversations between students, faculty, and staff to strengthen teaching and learning at Barnard. This year's conference will feature sessions on generative AI, facilitation, the politics of refusal, citation justice, and more. It will be held on campus next week, March 28th-29th. You can RSVP and find specific locations for each seminar using this link.
Wednesday, March 20, 2024
P/D/F and Withdraw Deadline Extended!
Hi First Years!
This is your friendly reminder that the last day to withdraw is now April 22 by 5PM EST and the new deadline to elect the pass/d/fail option for a class is April 29 by 5PM EST.
For more information, check out this blog post from Pooja!
And as usual, don't hesitate to email first-year@barnard.edu for any last minute questions.
Monday, March 18, 2024
Philosophy Program Planning Meeting
Welcome back from break, everybody!
Hopping on here to let you all know that the Philosophy Program Planning meeting will be on Thursday, March 28 from 1pm-2pm in 326 Milbank Hall. You will be able to talk with faculty, meet other students, find out about Fall 2024 classes, ask all your questions, and have some pizza!
Hope you're having a good first day back. :)
Wednesday, March 13, 2024
Tickets to see The Ally @ The Public Theater on March 19th!
Join us for the THE ALLY at the Public Theater on Tuesday, March 19th at 7:00PM.
Written by Itamar Moses and Directed by Lila Neugebauer.
When college professor Asaf (Josh Radnor) is asked by a student to sign a social justice manifesto, what seems at first like a simple choice instead embroils him in an increasingly complex web of conflicting agendas that challenge his allegiances as a progressive, a husband, an artist, an academic, an American, an atheist, and a Jew. With tensions at an all-time high, Asaf is forced to confront the age-old question: “If I am only for myself, what am I?”
THE ALLY is a passionate, provocative, and unflinching new play about the vanishing line between the personal and the political.
Limited number of free tickets available for BCID participants. Please register here.
*Participation in this show includes a follow-up discussion on campus.
Sponsored by the Office of DEI
Wednesday, March 6, 2024
P/D/F & W Deadline Is March 21! Here's All You Need to Know
Hi First Years!
As of now your schedules are for the most part finalized. But for those who are still debating their courses and schedules, there are still options available! Let’s dive into P/D/F & W and what that actually means.
How Does P/D/F Work?
Good news! Every Barnard student is allowed to Pass/D/Fail ONE class per semester. In other words, if you choose to PDF a class, the letter (P, D, or F) will appear on your transcript in place of a grade. Only a D or an F will count towards your GPA.
A letter grade of A+ through C- will appear on the transcript as a P, and will not count in the grade point average (GPA)
A letter grade of D will appear on the transcript as a D, and will count in the GPA
A letter grade of F will appear on the transcript as an F, and will count in the GPA
You can elect a class to be P/D/F even if one of your other courses is already an automatic P/D/F (i.e. First Year Seminar, First Year Writing, Physical Education).
What’s the Deadline to Declare a P/D/F?
You must make your decision by March 21, 2024 and submit the option Request for Pass/D/Fail in SSOL.
When Should I Not Use P/D/F?
It’s recommended to not use P/D/F in any course that can count towards your major or minor. Any class required for your major or minor that you PDF will be automatically uncovered at the time of graduation, and could affect your GPA. If you are debating P/D/F for one of these courses (including courses in your major/minor department that are not specifically required), consider speaking to your pre-major advisor or the department heads of your major/minor.
Can I Undo a P/D/F?
After you elect to P/D/F a course, there is a window between mid-June and mid-September where you can uncover a P grade. You will be able to see the actual grade you received in that class on SSOL and you can then make a decision to uncover or keep the P depending on what works best for you.
What If I Have Extenuating Circumstances And Am Not Doing Well in Multiple Classes?
Students who may be facing extenuating circumstances in a particular semester can petition to elect P/D/F grading in a second course, by speaking with their class dean and then submitting a petition to the College’s Committee on Programs and Academic Standing (CPAS).
Then What’s a Withdraw? And When Should I Use That?
Because the drop deadline has already passed, you are no longer able to drop a class without it appearing on your transcript. Instead, you can fill out the withdrawal form on Slate, which will mark the class with grade W on your transcript but will not count towards GPA. Be sure to obtain documented advisor approval before completing the withdrawal form.
What’s the Deadline to Withdraw From a Course?
To withdraw from a course (the course remains on the transcript with a grade of W), you should submit a withdrawal form with adviser approval to the Registrar’s Office before March 21, 2024.
If you have any questions or concerns, as always, reach out to the First Year Team at first-year@barnard.edu!
Tuesday, March 5, 2024
Coming Up: Environmental Science Program Planning Meeting
Hi First-Years!
For all those considering being an Environmental Science, Environmental Biology, or Environmental and Sustainability major, mark your calendars for the department program planning meeting on April 11th from 5:30-7:00 p.m. in 202 Altschul Hall. This is required for all majors.
There will be pizza with vegan and vegetarian options. Please RSVP to ccook@barnard.edu if you are attending or if you have any questions. Check out the flier below for more information!
Thursday, February 29, 2024
March Department Open Houses!
Hi First Years!
Department Name | Meeting Day, Date and Time | Meeting Location or Zoom Link | Contact |
Anthropology | Wednesday, March 6, 2024, 4:00pm- 6:00pm | 914 Milstein | flafonta@barnard.edu |
Art History | Visual Arts | Tuesday, March 19, 2024 | McCagg Gallery, 4th Floor Diana Center | esher@barnard.edu |
Religion | Tuesday March 19, 12-3pm | Milbank 224 | nhaider@barnard.edu |
Neuroscience & Behavior | Thursday, March 21st, 12:00-1:00pm | Sulzberger Parlor | mmiozzo@barnard.edu |
Music | Monday March 21, 2024 12:30-1:30PM | 319 Milbank | garcher@barnard.edu |
Chemistry | Friday, March 29, 12:00-2:00 PM | Altschul Atrium | lhendric@barnard.edu |