Life in Boston

Boston is a vibrant public health community and the birthplace of public health education. It is also one of the world’s most exciting cities, alive with start-ups, dynamic hospitals, universities, scientific research institutions, and innovative nonprofits and think tanks. It is also steeped in history, and teeming with recreational, entertainment, and cultural opportunities.

Boston’s Longwood Medical and Academic Area

Aerial view of the School and Longwood Medical Area

Boston’s Longwood Medical and Academic Area (LMA) is a thriving and dynamic community of medical, academic, research and cultural organizations. Harvard Chan School is located in the LMA, steps away from renowned hospitals, health care organizations, and other academic institutions, including Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Dental Medicine. Over 112,000 people are in the LMA every day according to MASCO (Medical Academic and Scientific Community Organization), the non-profit organization that provides programs and services in Boston’s LMA.

One of those programs is the MASCO shuttle, which is free to Harvard Chan students. Various routes can take you comfortably to other locations around the LMA or even to Harvard’s Cambridge campus.

A vibrant city

Boston is a vibrant city brimming with students from other academic institutions and professionals working at hospitals and health care organizations around the city. Beyond the Harvard Chan School, there are endless opportunities to enjoy everything Boston has to offer, including:

  • An array of museums featuring art, science, and everything in between
  • Restaurants serving local food or international cuisine
  • Outdoor recreation, from the Charles River to the White Mountains of New Hampshire
  • Sports games, like the Boston Red Sox playing at nearby Fenway Park
  • An abundance of the arts, including the Boston Symphony Orchestra or Boston Ballet
  • A fit community doing yoga on The Esplanade or running the Boston Marathon
  • Fascinating local history that made a significant impact on U.S. history