Fall 2012

Wednesday, August 29, 1–4 p.m.
Thursday, August 30, 9–11 a.m.
Central check-in for new students

Thursday, August 30–Wednesday, September 5: Orientation
The week before the start of classes, new students gather to learn about the college and get to know each other.

Monday, September 3, 1–5 p.m.; Tuesday, September 4, 1–4 p.m.; and Wednesday, September 5, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Key pick-up for returning students

Wednesday, September 5
Opening convocation, 7 p.m.

Thursday, September 6
Classes begin at 8 a.m.

To be announced by the president: Mountain Day
Mountain Day is a surprise break from classes. The president chooses a beautiful fall day and announces the holiday by ringing the college bells. Classes scheduled before 7 p.m. are canceled.

Saturday, October 6–Tuesday, October 9
Autumn recess

Thursday, October 11: Sherrerd Teaching Prize Ceremony
The Sherrerd Prize for Distinguished Teaching is given annually to Smith faculty members selected for their distinguished teaching records and demonstrated enthusiasm and excellence.

Friday–Sunday, October 12–14: Women’s Global Leadership Celebration
Renowned scholars, prominent alumnae and current students will honor the profound impact of Smith women in the world and address a range of topics related to women’s lives and leadership.

Friday, October 19–Sunday, October 21: Family Weekend
Students and their families are invited to attend concerts, lectures and panel discussions as well as athletic and social events.

Monday, November 5–Friday, November 16
Advising and course registration for the second semester

Thursday, November 8: Otelia Cromwell Day
Otelia Cromwell Day is an annual slate of workshops, lectures, films and entertainment held to honor Smith's first African-American graduate. Afternoon and evening classes are canceled.

Wednesday, November 21–Sunday, November 25
Thanksgiving recess (houses close at 10 a.m. on November 21 and open at 1 p.m. on November 25)

Thursday, December 13
Last day of classes

Friday, December 14–Monday, December 17
Pre-examination study period

Tuesday, December 18–Friday, December 21
Midyear examinations

Saturday, December 22, 2012–Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Winter recess (houses and Friedman apartments close at 10 a.m. on December 22 and open at 1 p.m. on January 2)

Interterm 2013

Thursday, January 3–Wednesday, January 23, 2013
During January Interterm, the college is open, but residence is not required. For two to three weeks, Interterm provides time for students to investigate a special area of interest; to participate in courses, activities and conferences at Smith and other area colleges; to do work in libraries, museums, laboratories, etc.; to participate in internships; to work on research projects individually, in small groups or with faculty; or to enjoy the facilities of the campus at a more leisurely pace. No classes are held on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, January 21.

Spring 2013

Monday, January 21–Wednesday, January 23
Orientation for entering students

Thursday, January 24
Classes begin at 8 a.m.

Thursday, February 21: Rally Day
Rally Day is highlighted by an all-college convocation at which distinguished alumnae are awarded the Smith College Medal, with a reception to follow. All classes are canceled.

Saturday, March 16–Sunday, March 24
Spring recess (houses close at 10 a.m. on March 16 and open at 1 p.m. on March 24)

Monday, April 8–Friday, April 19
Advising and course registration for the fall semester

Saturday, April 20: Celebrating Collaborations
Celebrating Collaborations is Smith’s annual showcase of student research and performance, highlighting the collaborative efforts of students and faculty.

Thursday, May 2
Last day of classes

Friday, May 3–Monday, May 6
Pre-examination study period

Tuesday, May 7–Friday, May 10
Final examinations

Saturday, May 11
Houses close for all students except graduates, commencement workers and those with Five College finals after May 11.

Sunday, May 19: Commencement
Commencement Weekend is Smith's final chance to honor its graduating seniors and to observe such traditions as Ivy Day and Illumination Night. The weekend culminates on Sunday when parents, friends and seniors gather for the awarding of diplomas.

Monday, May 20
All houses close at noon.