The University should address the problem of alienated undergraduates who withdraw from the mainstream of Harvard academic a faculty member asserts in a recently released report describing the plight of so-called "phantom students."

The report written by Assistant Professor of History Patricia N. Limerick was released Monday. Limerick writes in the report that many students go through four years at Harvard without speaking to professors and calls on the University to acknowledge the problem and reach out to these "Phantoms."

Limerick writes that students often stay away from contact with the faculty because they perceive the professors as aloof and unapproachable.

Dean of Students Archie C. Epps III said Wednesday that the "phantom phenomenon" is one aspect of a larger issue that concern the administration--the-issue of student-Faculty contact.

Fundamental

"Making certain that the educational resources of the Faculty are fully available to students is one of the most fundamental issues before the University." Dean of the College John B Fox Jr. '59 said Thursday. "It is on the forefront of Harvard's agenda."

Limerick said the report an informal statement of her personal observations, was the outgrowth of concern by the Committee on College Life. She added that she hopes it will generate campus discussion of the phantom dilemma.

Limerick's specific recommendation include efforts by the University to identify phantoma, engage them is project with teachers, and monitor their progress.

Fox said the committee will soon reconvene to consider Limerick's suggestions.

A confessed ex-phantom herself, Limerick explained that a variety of factors combine to create phantoms at Harvard.

Many students arrive intimidated by the institution, and some wonder whether they are the beneficiaries of an admissions mistake she said.

Early academic disappointments often drive these students further from professors who they already believe have no interest in undergraduates, Limerick added.

This apprehension results in a rift between students and the professors who should be playing a vital role in their college experience, she concluded.

"There's a wall between the two groups, and it's too bad that people find it the exception when people break down that wall." Jake Stevens '86, a member of the Committee on College Life, said Wednesday.

Several professors said that although they publicize their office hours and encourage students to attend, the response is low.