But the reunion-goers said the experience is worth the money. "It's a great chance to exchange ideas and experiences with others from my class," said Jim Welch '52.

And Harvard even gives out party favors. Returning members of the Class of 1962 received hats, ties, T-shirts, and glasses emblazoned with their class year. The other two class reunions gave items ranging from tote bags to umbrellas as gifts.

There's more to the reunions than rushing about to scheduled events, alumni said. "The activities are nice, but that's not why we're here. We're here to see the people," said Bruce Johnstone '62.

Johnstone says he is one of the many alumni who have maintained close college friendships over the years. He ate lunch in the Freshman Union yesterday with his college roommate of three years, Phillip Bernstein '62.

Bernstein said his family sees the Johnstones at least once a year despite the fact that the Bernsteins now live in California, and the Johnstones in Needham, Massachusetts.

Seeing old friends is definitely the best part, agreed Robert Little '37, who showed up a day early to arrange a display of his art work at Winthrop where the 50th reunion will register today. "I'm looking forward to seeing all the old goats," he said.