Much like the majestic polar bear, Pforzheimer House reigns supreme as apex predator in the ecosystem of Harvard Houses. While its Quad neighbors are great in their own right, Pfoho — figuratively and literally — rises above both to claim the title of “Best Harvard House.” But what exactly makes so many students proud to call this House pfome? Let’s jump on the Quad Yard Express and pfind out.
As with the other Quad Houses, Pfoho is well-known for its strong community. Let’s address the polar bear in the room: yes, the Quad is far. But that’s also what makes it special. Being separated from the Yard allows you to create mental distance between your academic and social lives. On a good day, there is nothing more satisfying than a walk through Cambridge Common or past the quiet homes lining Shepard Street back to Pfoho. And when you arrive back in the Quad, you’ll be welcomed by our warm community. I’ve been pfortunate to have met some of my closest friends in Pfoho (complaining about the Quad Shuttle is a good starter). As a testament to the House’s legendary ability to bring people together, Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan first met in the Pfoho Belltower Suite. If you value convenience over connections, then by all means, the River is for you. But if you’re looking for some lifelong love — or pfriendship! — the walk is worth it.
Unlike the rest of the Quad, however, Pfoho actually has a functional social life. Central to Pfoho’s social life is its unique two-storied dining hall, the central hub for conversation, studying, and occasional movie nights. I have spent one too many nights eating Marshmallow Mateys and chatting with pfriends into the early hours of the morning. Our wonderful Pfaculty Deans Anne and John host cozy Hygge study breaks during the winter (with a real pfireplace!) as well as High Tea, a charmingly British afternoon tea featuring finger sandwiches and jam-smothered biscuits, and a worthy rival to Lowell Thursday Teas.
While it’s not obvious to River and Yard residents whose experiences in the House have only been in the Igloo, Pfoho houses some of the nicest amenities on campus. You can play a round of pool while chowing down delicious quesadillas from the Quad Grille, beat your friends’ high scores in Pac-Man, Galaga, and other arcade games in the Den, and unwind by chilling in the Spfa’s massage chairs or by playing with guinea pigs. Life in Pfoho is so much pfun, you’ll never want to leave the Quad!
Yes, having to catch the morning shuttle every day can be annoying. Yes, Pforzheimer is impossible to pronounce. And yes, the puns can get old. But give Pfoho a chance — you may pfind it’s where you belong.
Image Credit: HPR / Jacob Herbele