* Tuition: This was the most significant portion. While the exact figure fluctuated slightly throughout the year, a reasonable estimate for tuition in 1997 would be around $25,000 - $27,000.
* Room and Board: This varied depending on the housing option chosen. Expect this to have been in the range of $10,000 - $15,000 or more.
* Books and Supplies: This would have added another several thousand dollars. A reasonable estimate would be $1,000 - $2,000.
* Other Expenses: Transportation, personal expenses, and miscellaneous fees would significantly increase the total. This could easily add another $3,000 - $5,000 or more, depending on lifestyle.
Therefore, a reasonable *total* estimate for the cost of attending Harvard in 1997 for one academic year would fall somewhere between $39,000 and $50,000, possibly more. It's crucial to remember this is an estimate, and the actual cost varied greatly depending on individual student choices. To find a precise figure, you'd need to consult Harvard's financial records from that specific year.