This week’s Campus Cutie might be a freshman, but he’s already leading the way at Harvard–literally. As a member of the Leadership Institute he’s guiding young students and giving back to the community, but that’s just one of many things this cutie has to offer. Read on to learn more about Michael Richard!
Year: 2017
Hometown: Fitchburg, MA
House: Weld Hall (this year), Mather House (the next 3 years)
Concentration: Economics
Relationship Status: Single
Describe yourself in three words: Confident, Outgoing, Optimistic
Favorite Place in Harvard Square: Top floor of Shake Shack
What are you involved with on campus?
The Leadership Institute at Harvard College (Social Outreach Commitee), The Institute of Politics (Economic Policy Group and National Campaign), and the Harvard Financial Aid Initiative (Student Coordinator, Summer Coordinator, and Hometown Recruiter).
Tell us a little more about your work with the Leadership Institute!
The Leadership Institute at Harvard College (LIHC), which just celebrated its tenth anniversary, is a student-run organization that tries to foster the ideals of leadership and morality in a myriad of settings. We promote and empower others to take active leadership roles in their lives and communities in the hopes of inspiring others and enacting positive change. LIHC is the first organization I joined at Harvard and I absolutely love the work I do! I am a member of the Social Outreach committee; we work with middle school students in Dorchester and high school students in Watertown, teaching the fundamental principles of leadership. I work extensively with the students in Dorchester, many of which come from underprivileged backgrounds. It is such an incredible opportunity to be able to mentor these students, helping them set goals and work towards a brighter future.
What has been the best part of freshman year? What are you most looking forward to next year?
Honestly, the best part of freshman year has been meeting all my fellow classmates. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by such intelligent, passionate, and motivated people. Harvard feels like a second home, and the community here is like no other. Every day I am inspired by the students and faculty to work harder and aim higher; the atomosphere is electric!
Next year I am looking forward to moving into Mather House (the best house, of course) and getting to know my fellow housemates.
What do you look for in a significant other?
A girl who’s ambitious, passionate, outgoing and kind. Someone who is comfortable with trying new things and meeting new people. I love a good conversationalist. I also love a girl who has a commitment to helping others and serving her community.
What is your best phsyical feature?
My smile :)
Describe your ideal date!
Ice Skating on a Friday Night at the Commons, hopefully it’s snowing! Afterwards we’d warm up over dinner (her choice) and great conversation.
What’s one thing on your Harvard bucket list?
Dorm Storming on Housing Day! Gotta represent the Concrete Jungle. I can’t wait to welcome the classes ’18, ’19, and ’20 to Mather University. I love the excitement of housing day; it’s one of the best days of the year! It really speaks to the amazing community here and the pride that people have in their House.