Welcome “Spiders”!

We are delighted to greet you as a valued member of the Jonathan Edwards College Class of 2027.

Members of JE are called Spiders because the college’s namesake, 18^th-century theologian Jonathan Edwards, wrote an essay about the glorious web-spinning creatures. Edwards’ name was borrowed for the college when it was built, but you will fill it up with your presence, and the college will change to represent your history, interests, and projects, as it has for countless students over its 90-year history. Together, those who work and those who live in the college commit to learning about different perspectives and welcoming people with the most diverse experiences.

As JE’s Head of College and Dean, we look forward to meeting you in August. During their first year, new Spiders will live in Farnam Hall on Yale’s Old Campus. Later in the summer, you will receive the name of your first-year counselor (or FroCo), one of seven awesome JE seniors who will be living with you on Old Campus. The FroCos will be able to provide you with guidance, not just on academic matters but also practical ones (including what to pack).

JE has the proud distinction of being the first of Yale’s residential colleges to open in 1933. Built in traditional Gothic style, our college features a breathtaking Great Hall, two picturesque libraries, and elaborate masonry that will thrill the most hardcore Harry Potter fan. Our facilities include a Buttery and letterpress, a small theatre, and an art gallery. Watching our gorgeous courtyard fill with autumn leaves is an experience only matched by seeing our vibrant tulip gardens blossom in the spring. The college is directly across from Old Campus so you will not have to travel far from your suite to enjoy all the comforts of home. During your first year you will come frequently to the college to eat, lounge, study, and socialize.

Above all else, JE prides itself on a strong and supportive community. As your Head of College and Dean, we will be there to guide you through each step of your academic journey. Along the way, we will have the help of a strong fellowship of scholars from all fields who will serve as your first-year advisors and whose presence in the college builds an environment of stimulating conversation, career advice, and general congeniality. You will also benefit from our wonderful JE staff who are eager to assist you as you adjust to life as a Yale student. Most of all, you will welcome the advice and friendship of our upper-level students, who will serve as FroCos and Big Sibs.

If you haven’t activated your Yale e-mail account yet, please do so now, so that you can open this line of communication with your suite mates and with us; in the coming weeks, we will use this address to write to you. In other communications, you will receive more detailed information about moving in and orientation. You can also expect information about the academic calendar, course registration, and the structure of your first days on campus. However, we assure you that all the academic material will be covered in depth during First-Year Orientation; your main goal now should be getting yourself to campus safely on move-in day. 

On behalf of the upper-level students, alumni, fellows, and staff of Jonathan Edwards College, we welcome you to a place that will shelter and uphold you for four years and become a part of your character for life.

Congratulations on being placed in the best college at Yale!

With warmest regards,

Paul North, Head of College
Christina Ferando, Dean