Many first-years complained about Harvard's policy on microwaves. The student handbook notes that, while microwaves are not permitted, students are allowed to keep a Micro-Fridge, a combination microwave and refrigerator.

The handbook further states this product can be leased through Harvard Student Agencies, although it gives no explanation for why this one product is permitted.

"The fact that Harvard lets you have [a Micro-Fridge] because it comes through Harvard shows that they're more concerned about money than safety," Rajbanshi said.

"Maybe they service them and they know that they're safe," said Khalda A. Ibrahim '03, whose own microwave was taken.

Several students said the dorm room searches should have extended to all undergraduates--not just first-years.

"I think it backs up the irrationality of this whole thing," Rajbanshi said. "What year you are says nothing about how careful you are."

"It seems kind of biased," said Brian L. Sigafoos '03, who lost candles and a hot pot to Yard Operations. "They should do it everywhere, if they're going to do it [on the Yard]."

Despite their concerns, though, many first-years said they understood the administration's reasoning behind the unannounced searches.