A major must be declared during the fall or spring of sophomore year, or before a student begins her junior year. Smith offers 45 majors and over 50 minors. While not an easy process, if a student wants to design her own major she may do so. She must obtain the approval of the Subcommittee on Honors and Independent Programs of the Committee on Academic Policy. The average class size is 15.
Students interact with their faculty both in and out of the classroom.
Faculty hold office hours during which students visit with questions about class. Faculty are also available by individual appointment. Many students and faculty interact in non-academic arenas including over meals and tea in student houses. New students select their classes during orientation, which takes place the week before school beings. Every student is assigned a pre-major advisor.