How Penn Students Actually Choose Their Classes

Before coming to Penn, I assumed class registration would be pretty simple. You look through the course list, pick what sounds interesting, and hope it works out. In reality, choosing classes at Penn is much more strategic, and most students learn how to do it through experience, advice,and a little trial and error.

One of the most commonly used tools is Penn Course Review. Almost every student checks it before registering. It gives insight into how students rate the quality of a class, the professor, and the workload. While it does not tell the full story, it helps students get a realistic sense of what they are signing up for. Many students prioritize classes that are well rated and engaging.

Another major factor in course selection is advice from other students. Penn students rely heavily on their peers, especially upperclassmen who have already taken certain classes. Before registration opens, it is very common to ask friends how difficult a class actually is, whether the professor is fair, and how much time the workload takes each week. Those conversations often end up being more helpful than the course description itself.

The Daily Pennsylvanian also plays a surprisingly big role in how students plan their schedules. Every semester or year, the DP usually publishes an article highlighting classes that double count for both a sector and a foundational approach, as well as classes that are considered easier based on Penn Course Review data. These articles are especially popular during registration because they help students balance requirements while keeping their schedules manageable.

Another common strategy is taking intro level classes in departments students are curious about. Introductory classes are a low pressure way to explore a major or subject without fully committing. They help students figure out what they enjoy and often open the door to more advanced courses later on.

- Tsering S.

What Penn Taught Me That Wasn't On the Syllabus

Penn has taught me a lot academically, but some of the most meaningful lessons I have taken away never appeared on a syllabus. They came from navigating day to day life here and slowly learning how to take care of myself in a fast paced environment.

One of the first things Penn taught me was how to advocate for myself. No one is constantly checking in to make sure you are okay, and that can feel intimidating at first. Over time, though, you learn how to ask questions, go to office hours, speak up when something is not working, and reach out for help without feeling ashamed. That process of learning to speak up for yourself is uncomfortable at times, but it is a skill that stays with you long after college.

Along with that comes learning how to sit with uncertainty. At Penn, you will not always know exactly what you are doing or where you are headed, and that can be unsettling. Being in an environment where there is no clear roadmap forces you to trust yourself a little more each day. You learn how to keep moving forward even when things are unclear, and that lesson becomes one of the most valuable ones you carry with you.

Penn also pushed me to rethink how I define success. Being surrounded by ambitious people can make comparison feel unavoidable, and for quite some time I measured myself against others. Over time, I learned that success at Penn looks different for everyone. Sometimes it is landing an opportunity, but other times it is choosing rest, protecting your balance, or simply getting through a difficult week. What made all of this manageable was community. The people you surround yourself with shape your experience more than any class ever could. Friends, mentors, and small pockets of belonging are what make an intense environment feel supportive and human.

If you are considering Penn, know that what you learn here goes far beyond academics. Some of the most important lessons happen quietly, in moments you do not expect, and they stay with you long after you leave campus.

- Tsering S.

What I'd tell my high school self before applying to Penn

If I could sit down with my high school self before applying to Penn, she would probably bestressed, overthinking every decision, and convinced that one acceptance letter would determine her entire future. The first thing I would tell her is this: you do not need to have everything figured out. It might feel like everyone else applying to Penn has a clear plan and a perfectly curated application, but that is not true. Most students arrive still unsure of what they want to study or who they want to become. Penn is a place where exploration is normal, even if it does not alwayslook that way from the outside. Changing your mind is not a failure here. It is part of the process.

I would also tell my high school self that Penn is not just one type of experience. From afar, it can seem intense and overly competitive. That version of Penn exists, but it is not the whole story. Penn is also quiet mornings on campus, supportive mentors, late night conversations withfriends, and communities that make a very large school feel personal. You get to decide which version of Penn you engage with.

Another thing I would say is to stop trying to sound impressive in your application and start sounding honest. The strongest applications are not the ones that list the most achievements. They are the ones that feel self aware and genuine. Admissions officers are not looking for someone who already fits perfectly into Penn. They are looking for people who are curious, thoughtful, and ready to grow.

I would also be honest about this: Penn will challenge your confidence before it builds it back up. You may no longer feel like the smartest person in every room. You might struggle in ways you did not expect. That does not mean you do not belong. In fact, that discomfort often means you are learning.

If you are a high school student thinking about applying to Penn, know this. You do not need to arrive with everything figured out. Penn is a place where growth happens gradually, through experience and time.

- Tsering S.

Ode to Grommons

When I moved out of Hill after freshman year, I didn’t think much about the fact that I wouldn’t be living on top of a dining hall anymore. It seemed like a small detail at the time, but pretty quickly I realized how inconvenient it was to not have food or basic supplies just a few steps away. That’s when I discovered Grommons, the little grocery store tucked under 1920 Commons, and it’s honestly become one of my favorite places on campus.

It’s basically my one-stop shop now. If I get sick, I head straight there for cold medicine or allergy meds. If I need a quick caffeine fix, they always have cold brew ready to grab. And the real game-changer has been the meal exchanges. Instead of hunting around for somewhere to use them on a busy day, I can just pick up what I need at Grommons and store it in my room for later. It sounds like a small thing, but it makes eating during hectic weeks so much easier.

Because I don’t live in a building with a dining hall anymore, having a place like Grommons nearby has saved me so much time and stress. It’s convenient, reliable, and open exactly when I need it to be. I never thought I’d feel this strongly about a campus mini-mart, but here we are. Grommons has basically become the unofficial extension of my kitchen, and I’m grateful for it every single week.

- Robin A.

Creativity in Curriculum

One of my favorite parts of the College of Arts and Sciences is the opportunity for students to customize their schedule with classes that are both interesting and worthwhile. For me, some of my courses have given me tips to improve my time here at Penn, while not being within the same realm as my majors. One of these classes was WRIT 0390: Chess And/As Life. This class was a writing seminar; courses that teach you the main foundations of writing research papers, while also focusing on subjects that students find appealing. For me, Chess And/As Life focused on chess. I absolutely love chess, and play it often during my free time, therefore, having the opportunity to take this class grabbed my attention immediately. Here, we did our research about the game overall and its many factions: How is it portrayed in the media? How is chess viewed in different cultures?Is chess really a symbol of intellect or a response to sudden trends?. There were also times where the professor bought chess boards for us to play before the start of academic breaks. Overall, this class gave me the tools to write a strong analysis, while also enjoying something I truly enjoy.  

- Zoe M.

Arts AND Sciences: Favorite Humanities Classes as a Student in the Sciences

Penn’s College, by virtue of its name, consists of two principle parts: The Arts and the Sciences.As a VIPER junior studying physics and material science, I couldn’t be deeper into the branch of the sciences. Yet, much like many of my peers, the humanities as part of the college’s breadth requirement quickly changed from my most feared classes to my most memorable. Below are three of my favorite humanities courses I’ve taken at Penn, in no particular order!

1. HIST/COML: Foundations of European Thought

Beginning with the dawn of recorded European thinking, this course traces the evolution and influence of ancient European thought and its integration into society. From Cicero to the humanists, this course exposed me to so many interesting ideas from centuries prior that echo the sociopolitical situations of today.

2. ENGL: Dark Academia

A super cool first-year seminar (class tailored to first-year students!) on the key books andthemes of literature that influenced the #darkacademia trend. I knew from the very beginning of reading the course description that this class would be one of my favorites. Incredibly memorable it indeed was, from The Secret History to Babel, as we explored the underlying concepts of power, religion, and class hidden behind the mysterious digital aesthetics of dark academia.

3. THAR: Introduction to Acting

In contrast to many of my other classes, Introduction to Acting focused on getting me out of myseat and on the mainstage floor through all sorts of exercises, activities, and hands-on acting.This made it, without doubt, the most fun class of my sophomore spring semester, and a strong recommendation I have for anyone of any major.

I came to Penn knowing that I had any interests beyond my major that I wanted to explore, andthe general education requirement I’ve found to be a hugely rewarding way of both trying new subjects and building off of existing ones. These classes have introduced me to new ideas and ways of thinking, and allowed me to polish up on skills that would be otherwise unpracticed.

At the end of the day, the college is built off of two pillars: the arts and the sciences. And while I am much deeper into the latter, my experience has strongly convinced me that both —and the integration of the two— are superbly fun and undoubtedly valuable.

- Tony T.

Intro to Data Science

When I signed up for POLI 1800, the intro to data science class, I had basically no coding experience. I’d never opened RStudio before and I definitely didn’t think of myself as someone who would ever write code on purpose. I took the class because it sounded useful, not because I thought it would become a major part of my academic life.

By the end of the semester, something completely unexpected happened. I got comfortable with R. Really comfortable. I started using it for other classes, including full final papers where I collected data, cleaned it, made graphics, and ran models without feeling lost. I even used R in my application to PORES and a few other research positions, and it actually helped me stand out. I went from barely knowing what a vector was to being someone who relies on R every week.

And then there was the other surprise. Somewhere between debugging code and going over problem sets, I realized my professor and I were both huge baseball fans. What started as a random baseball reference in class turned into regular conversations about stats, lineups, and the misery and joy of following a team over a long season. That connection made the class feel smaller and more personal, and it also helped open doors to other political science opportunities I wouldn’t have known about otherwise.

- Robin A.

Here comes December!

As the trees of Locust Walk shed their last leaves and the spirit of Thanksgiving comes and goes, winter slowly and inevitably makes its mark on campus. With it comes not only Christmas lights, the hope of snow, and cozier scarfs and mittens, but also a just-as-inevitable end of the semester: winter is the season of cold, and winter is the season of final exams.

Luckily, if there’s anything about the Penn student body, it is that the passion and fun of student life conquers all. Exams are no exception – December remains decorated with activities and events that encourage community and activity during what is a stressful time for many.

For one, what better way to re-energize than free food? Study breaks offered by the respective class boards or departments offer all sorts of food, snacks, and merchandise. They are also areally good way to catch up with friends who you haven’t seen all semester!

The college office and all of Penn’s learning centers also remain incredibly supportive resources. From open office hours, extended staffings, or additional workshops, professors, advisors, or experienced students offer help with open arms.

Lastly, of course, there is Light Up Locust, the must-see event of December, where the holiday lights of Locust Walk are turned on for the winter season. With a cup of hot chocolate in one hand and an Insomnia cookie in the other, the nights —or, by now, the mid-afternoons— won’t be so dark anymore!

- Tony T.

Casual Networking

When I got into Penn in Washington, I figured the tough part was over. Pretty quickly, I realized the harder part was actually getting started. I knew I had to write cover letters, get ready for interviews, and somehow “network,” but I didn’t really know what that looked like in real life. I kept putting it off because it all felt a little intimidating.

Then something simple ended up changing everything. After my Legal Studies class one day, I stayed for a minute to ask my professor about an in-class exercise. We talked about the assignment, then about some of his research, and eventually I mentioned that I’d be in D.C. the next semester and was trying to narrow down what kind of work I wanted to do. I told him I was interested in politics, law, and especially the world of campaign finance.

He paused for a second and said he served on the board of a think tank that worked on those exact issues. I looked it up later and it was basically the perfect match for what I’d been hoping to find. I hadn’t planned on getting career advice that day. I was literally just asking about a class activity.

That conversation showed me something I hadn’t understood before. Networking doesn’t have to be a big, stressful performance. Sometimes it’s just talking to people you already see every week and being honest about what you’re interested in. Penn is full of professors and mentors who want to help. You just have to give yourself the space to connect with them.

- Robin A.

Penn’s Perfect Location - How I spend Random 2 to 3 hour Blocks of Times During the Day

With the advanced registration period wrapped up and our preliminary schedules released, I’ve started imagining what my days will look like. I’ve been thinking ahead to next semester and planning out how I’ll use the different pockets of time throughout my day. As a college student, my days usually bounce between classes, home, and meetings. However, every once in a while, I’ll find myself with a random 2 to 3 hour block of time. Even though an hour or two isn’t enough for a full adventure into Center City, Penn’s location in University City means there’s always plenty to explore within a quick 15-minute walk. Here’s some of my favorite ways to spend that in-between hour around campus:

1. Global Cuisine Scene
If you’re a foodie like me, the food scene around campus will not disappoint! Even within a short walk from campus, there are so many cuisine options. Since eating out can be expensive, there’s always a lot of food truck options too to pick up something quick along Spruce or Walnut street. Some of my favorites are the Halal carts, Tacos Don Memo, and Kim’s Chinese food, which always hit right at my cravings. If I have a little more time, I would go with a friend and try a new cuisine spot nearby. Just a few weeks ago, I tried a new spot, Abyssinia, which had amazing Ethiopian food, only a few blocks from campus. It’s amazing how walking just a few blocks from campus always reveals so many new food spots I didn’t notice before.

2. Trader Joe’s Run
Friday morning Trader Joe’s Runs! I love how Trader Joe’s is just a short 20 minute walk from campus. Going on a grocery run Trader Joe’s trip is always one of my favorite weekday activities. Just yesterday, I went to pick up some of their newly dropped snacks. It’s a productive little errand for grocery shopping but feels like a nice break!

3. Cozy Cafes to Lock-in
Whenever I have 2 - 3 hour chunks of time throughout the week, I love spending time working productively. There are so many good options to study around campus, from popular places like Board & Brew to Madis Coffee Roasters, Knockbox, Paris Baguette, and Top Hat Coffee Lounge. These cafe spots around campus are perfect for locking in to get an assignment done in the cozy, coffee shop atmosphere.

4. Farmer’s Market Wednesdays
Every Wednesday, there’s a small farmer’s market area right by the Penn Bookstore with some of the most amazing cookies, savory baked goods, bread loafs, and fresh produce, a truly perfect little treat between classes in the midday. With my economics classes at 8:30 and 10:15 located right next to this area, that little break in between has become one of my favorite parts of Wednesday mornings.

Whether it’s a quick Trader Joe’s run or going cafe hopping, I love how Penn’s surroundings are filled with little hidden gems you can enjoy with just a couple of free hours :)

- Yoonjung C.

Submatriculation 101

Submatriculation programs, broadly defined, allows undergraduate students to take graduate level courses alongside their normal coursework to partially/fully complete a masters degree when they graduate. These programs also encompass a great deal of disciplines, from philosophy, criminology, or english to linguistics, mathematics, or biology. Personally, I’m submatriculating (or “submatting” as Penn students call it) in the East Asian Languages and Civilizations department, which I decided upon in my junior year.

There are certainly some pros and cons to consider when thinking about pursuing such programs, and I’ve highlighted some of my personal insights below:

●      Cost - Your financial aid will apply to any graduate level courses you take, provided that you enroll in them whilst still finishing up your undergraduate degree. This has allowed me to take the majority of graduate courses, which are normally significantly costlier than undergraduate courses, for virtually free. Hence why so many students, myself included, work to finish their M.A and their B.A simultaneously so they don’t have to pay out of pocket. Also, you still have to be taking majority undergraduate courses in order for your financial aid to still count.

●      Extra semester/year - That being said however, the majority of students find it very challenging to plan out their semesters years in advance, and for some programs it's just plain impossible. So the majority of submatriculation students, in my circles at least, stay an extra semester or two in order to finish the M.A, which is still saving a lot of money/time. For some STEM programs though, like medical physics, students usually stay a minimum of two extra years.

●      Rushed feeling - Some of my professors actually discouraged me from submatriculating because in their opinions, taking your time to finish a masters program would put you in much better shape if you wanted to pursue a PhD than rushing through it in undergrad. To an extent, I can see and agree where they’re coming from, but since the program was basically no cost to me, I decided to go through with it. It is advisable for some disciplines to pursue another M.A in order to best prepare you for the rigor of PhD programs.

●      Community - Honestly, one of the best things about submatriculating was meeting all of my graduate student friends and being able to escape the undergraduate bubble. I’ve met some of the best people ever in courses and since the class sizes are quite small, it’s a great way to make friends, find out about cool opportunities, and grow as a person.

So there you have it! Submatriculating certainly comes with pros and cons, but it is a fantastic opportunity to accelerate your education to the next level. I highly recommend consulting with your academic advisors before making any decisions. Best of luck!

– Seyoon C.

My VIPER Journey

As I stood behind my table during NSO this year, chatting with energetic students, I wassuddenly hit by a wave of nostalgia. It felt crazy to think that just two years ago, I was on the other side of that table—nervous, eager, and full of questions about Penn, about community,about academics, and about life beyond that high school that had been my entire living experience so far. Now, as a junior in VIPER, it was my turn to share my story. I realized just how far I'd come and how much VIPER, in the intertwining of its invaluable, rigorous program and its multitalented, tight-knit community, has shaped the formative early years of my college experience.

For a high school student who had never seen Penn before, I instantly found a home in VIPER.It was far more than an academic classification, but rather it was about being part of aclose-knit, supportive community passionate about making a difference in energy and theenvironment. This community aspect of VIPER has probably been the best part of my Pennexperience. From late-night exam cram sessions in the VIPER lounge (to let you in on a secret:

VIPER lounge is snack-stocked!) to weekly lunch hangouts over the summer, it's been amazingto be part of a group that's so close and supportive. As opposed to any other major community, VIPER is unique in its interdisciplinary nature: you find yourself working with people from all different backgrounds —chemists, physicists, mechanical, electrical, material engineers— all driven by a shared passion for solving big energy challenges.

Another thing I love about VIPER is how integrated it is with the broader Penn community. Looking back, I was admittedly slightly worried: would such an academically rigorous program allow me the opportunity to pursue my diverse other interests? It turns out the concern was completely wrong, for reality was clearly different: VIPER students were actively involved in all sorts of incredible activity groups across campus, from cultural to social to arts to professional.

Now, as the sitting president of MSE Society and one of the chairs of the Chinese Student Association, VIPER's openness encouraged me to jump into cool, fulfilling, and incredibly fun leadership roles all around campus. It is our strength in tightness but also far reaching individual branches that make VIPER such an impactful community.

As I spoke with potential students, I saw myself in their simultaneous mixture of excitement and uncertainty. I hope sharing my own VIPER journey, all the way from high school, helps them picture their futures here, and I cannot imagine the even tighter bonds and brighter horizons they will see as the new generation of VIPERs.

- Tony T.

Law classes in the College

The curriculum in the College of Arts and Sciences provides an interdisciplinary structure that prepares students for any post-graduate opportunity they want to pursue. For me, this opportunity is law school. While I am a sophomore now, I still participate in classes that will provide me with skills to strengthen my intellectual foundation. One of these classes is LGST 1010: Law and Social Values. This class teaches students about the evolving social institution of the United States, with a special emphasis on the intersection of legal regulations and social values. This class helps students like me to think critically about the very system we want to get involved in, regardless of the field that we may choose. It is not only LGST 1010, but many other ethics, philosophy, and legal studies courses offered in the College of Arts and Sciences for anyone interested in law school to register for. 

- Zoe M.

Senior Perspective: Favorite study spots off campus

If you’re someone like me, who can’t stand studying in one place for too long, I highly recommend exploring Philadelphia whenever you can – and I don’t just mean University City or Center City!

My favorite coffee shops have always been, Cafe Walnut (try their misugaru lattes with a shot of espresso), Caphe Roasters (love their Vietnamese lattes and egg coffee), and Drip (right in Chinatown, I adore their interior and asian-style drip coffee). If it matters to you as much as it does to me, you probably won’t run into many Penn students in these areas since they are a little more lowkey than the usual study spots. Whenever I’m here, I just pop in my airpods and grind away until mid day when the cafes close. Their food options are also very filling, so it’s a great bang for your buck!

If you’re not in the mood to spend money on coffee, which is totally understandable, there are plenty of free study spaces I love too. The Historical Society of Pennsylvania is a beautiful space for you to just lock-in, enjoy the surrounding bookcases, and be in your element. I also love Washington Square Park during the fall, when the weather is beautiful I do a lot of my readings on the benches here, and they also offer free piano performances too! The Free Library of Philadelphia is great as well. These places are nice breaks to go to when you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of University city, which are dominated mostly by Penn students.

Of course, this is not an exhaustive list at all but I don’t believe in gatekeeping small businesses that deserve to be thriving! Go out into the city and find your own signature study spots, I’m rooting for you!

-Seyoon C.

Finding the intersection of the Humanities and STEM

As a student who has harbored an interest in both academic disciplines, the College of Arts and Sciences provides me with programs to gain knowledge in both fields. The intersection that I study specifically is Political Science and Biology. Political Science is a vast department that is open to all interests, whether a student is either pre-law or pre-med. As a pre-law student who is interested in medical malpractice, Political Science provides a strong foundation in writing and analytical thinking; two things that are vital for a strong law school career. Yet, these subjects do directly introduce me to the biological side of medical malpractice. This is where Biology and Bioethics contributes to my program. Within this legal field, the knowledge of medical terminology and coverage of ethical practices is very important. These principles are confronted in the Bioethics classes I take along with my political science classes. Overall, my program is fit to help me both gain knowledge and interest in these two fields, while also preparing me for my law school career. 

- Zoe M.

What’s unique about Junior Year: Living Off-campus and Appreciating Campus Study Spots

I remember my dorm experiences freshmen and sophomore year, where it was mandatory to live on campus, and how it really brought everyone together, making it easy to meet people, whether it’s through study sessions in the High Rise rooftop spaces. However, as juniors, we have the option to live off campus, which I decided to do! Although I was initially nervous about finding options, I really appreciated Penn’s many helpful resources that made the search process easier, such as the multiple Off-Campus Housing drop-by events at the high rises as well as upperclassmen sharing their advice.

While I sometimes miss the idea of living at a college dorm because of how it really fostered a dorm-wide community, living off-campus this year has felt like a big shift in a good way, bringing a new rhythm to my college life! It’s been a chance to feel a little older, more independent, and more connected to the city around Penn. I’ve learned how to separate my time on campus from my personal time at home, and this semester, living outside campus has been really grounding as I think about post-college life as well. Through living off-campus this year, I’ve also been able to get more into my hobbies, especially cooking everyday to save costs.

I’ve started trying new cuisine recipes, learning how to use up various leftover ingredients, and inviting friends over for casual meals. For example, after my morning class, I love to meet with a friend to walk back home and cook a new recipe I’ve saved from the previous week. One of my favorite memories from this semester was when I had the chance to host a small get-together at my place, which ended up resulting in talking and laughing for hours. I think one of the nicest things about Penn’s culture is how much people love hosting and spending time together to recharge. It’s such a simple thing, but cooking and sharing food really makes friendships feel closer.

Furthermore, living off-campus has made me really appreciate being on campus more, especially regarding study spots. Since my apartment can feel too comfortable sometimes, I’ve really appreciated the diverse study spots around Penn’s campus depending on my mood or the kind of work I need to do. I love finding new places depending on my mood or the type of work I have that day. For instance, when the sun is out, after my morning classes at the Annenberg School for Communication and Perelman Center for Political Science and Economics, which are both very near each other, I love staying on the ground floor of Perelman Center for Political Science and Economics to get a lot of challenging tasks or readings done. It’s one of my favorite buildings at Penn, not just because I’m an Econ major, but because it’s genuinely a beautiful space. The big glass windows bring in so much light, and it has the perfect balance of quiet and white-noise to study. While not as silent as Van Pelt or Fisher Fine Arts libraries, the location allows me to always get things done. 

However, during the afternoon, when I want a change of pace or some background noise, I love how Penn is at the center of so many different types of cafes. There’s something about sitting at a cafe surrounded by people typing away that helps me get into a good flow, especially for writing essays or when doing busy club work. From Pret, The Board and Brew, Madis Coffee Roasters, Top Hat Coffee Lounge, Panera Bread, Paris Baguette, and Knockbox Cafe, these are some of my favorite cafes, all within a short walk, that I love to go work for a good few hours after my classes in the afternoons. There’s something about sitting at a café surrounded by people typing away that helps me get into a good flow. In the late evenings, when I need to really focus, such as when I’m reviewing lectures and long readings before my economics exams, I will usually go to the Van Pelt Basement or Fisher Fine Arts libraries which are open until late night. During midterm season, my friends and I have even done “lock-in” study nights there, and it’s motivating seeing how much students really work hard here.

Overall, the opportunity to live off-campus so far as a junior has made me realize how much I’ve grown since freshman year. No matter where I go, from the cafes to classrooms, Penn feels really connected. Even living off-campus, I’ve never felt far from the energy and warmth that make this place feel like home. I’ve learned to balance independence with community, and I’ve found new ways to appreciate everything that makes Penn feel like home. Whether I’m studying at PCPSE, running into a friend on Locust, or cooking dinner in my own kitchen, I’m constantly reminded of how lucky I am to be surrounded by such an inspiring, close-knit, and welcoming community.

- Y. Choi

Finding Your Major

From someone who applied to Penn undecided and with little idea of what I wanted to major in, I know how daunting it can feel to be unsure. Fortunately, the resources I found here helped point me in the right direction. Below is what I found most useful in choosing my major(s):

Talk to your pre-major advisor. Your pre-major advisor is assigned for your first four semesters. While their main role is to guide you through course selection, they also tend to have a broad understanding of different majors in the College. Sharing your interests with them can help you get tailored suggestions of majors to explore.

Take intro classes. This is the advice everyone gives, but it really does work. I actually discovered my second major, Computer Science, through an introductory course I took on a whim. It wasn’t even on my radar before. Don’t be afraid to try classes outside your comfort zone, you might uncover a new passion.

Talk to upperclassmen. Some of my most valuable advice came from peers ahead of me. As an underclassman, I found that upperclassmen were eager to share their experiences and insights. Speaking with someone already in a major you’re curious about can give you a clearer picture of what to expect later on.

P.S. In case it helps for context: I’m majoring in Cognitive Science and Computer Science, two areas I never even considered back when I first applied.

- Emma L.

Getting involved on campus and beyond through Penn’s many opportunities

As a junior at Penn, I’ve realized how fast time has gone. Lately as I take a moment to reflect on my freshman and sophomore year, I’ve been reflecting a lot on how my time here has shaped me and my professional aspirations. More than anything, I’ve realized that the best part of Penn is not just the opportunities themselves, but the people and communities that make each memory or the opportunities so meaningful. Each experience has not only reminded me of the collaborative culture that makes Penn so special, but also how I have learned so much just from the conversations I’ve had. From professional experiences to take a step forward in my career journey to friendships that bloomed, I hope to share about some opportunities that if you are a freshman, you should consider exploring if you haven't yet! 

1. Career Services at Penn: During freshman year, I nervously attended my first career fairs. I came in simply hoping to explore, but the conversations I had and advice I received helped me feel more confident when I returned as a sophomore to the career fairs and networking events on campus. Handshake, LinkedIn, and MyPenn were some of the most used tools that I used while networking, but what really made the difference were the small, encouraging interactions from alumni already in the industry that helped me feel ready and passionate about taking the next step.

2. Research and Internships: Through Penn’s Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships (CURF) research directory, I was able to get involved in humanities research during my sophomore year, which deepened my curiosity about regulations. Hearing from my colleagues in my presentation group, CURF provides students with ample research opportunities to start even the moment when you walk on campus. Outside of research, Penn provides global opportunities to work abroad. My sophomore summer internship, Penn’s Global Research and Internship Program (GRIP) , gave me the unique chance to live and work abroad for two months in a country I’ve never been to. This experience working on a policy proposal paper was memorable in itself but it also taught me so much more, from finding affordable housing with strangers to trusting myself to navigate completely new environments and work cultures. This experience spending my summer abroad is a memory I’ll always keep and it reminded me how much Penn supports students in pursuing growth far beyond the classroom.

3. Student Clubs: Clubs on campus have honestly been one of the highlights of my time so far. From going to various club GBMs and speaker events during my freshmen year to finding communities with common interests, I have loved spending time with people who share the same passions during weekly meetings, and such clubs I have gotten to be a part of have given me some of my closest communities outside of regular classes. They’ve become communities I rely on, whether it’s for professional advice or simply hanging at each others’ homes after meetings to relax from a long day of meaningful work. Because of the plethora of clubs to explore, every student I believe that comes to campus will eventually find their community to find home in.

4. Classrooms: One of the biggest surprises for me after a few weeks was realizing how collaborative the learning culture at Penn really is. I came in thinking studying for classes and exams would be a solo activity in the libraries, but office hours, class discussions, and study groups have shown me otherwise. Penn professors and faculty genuinely want to connect with you and share their knowledge; I’ll never forget when during my freshmen year, one professor invited me to attend his conference at the end of the semester. This simple gesture ended up introducing me to a whole new field of business and regulations which I had never previously encountered until taking his class. 

Looking back on my past two years, I feel like Penn is truly unique in how it provides students with many opportunities to get involved in their career and personal passions. I’m grateful to the professors who’ve inspired me, the clubs on campus that have become home late nights, and the constant learning culture here at Penn that encourages our community to grow together. Campus truly never is empty or quiet with all of the amazing things students partake in. Being surrounded by so many smart people that I can constantly learn from, moving forward, I hope I can give back to that same culture of collaboration and mentorship that lights up campus. 

- Yoonjung C.

A Day In My Life as a Senior:

9:00 AM – I like to wake up around an hour or two before my first class so I have plenty of time to eat breakfast and pick an outfit before class! I usually don’t have time to eat during the day, so I like to eat a huge breakfast. (Make sure to eat three meals a day!)

10:15 AM – My first class is “Gender, Sexuality, and Religion” which I wanted to take because I’ve never taken a religious studies course, but have heard great things about the department. Do not sleep on religious studies because they are all amazing! Special shout out to Prof. Robb and Thomas; today we learned about the complex history of the veil, specifically during the Iranian revolution.

12:00 PM – Now it’s time to walk to my Ideas of Mathematics (Math-1700) class, which is somewhat infamous amongst humanities students, but in all honestly it’s not as bad as its reputation would posit. The class is really just a bunch of puzzles that don’t require too much traditional math knowledge, and group work is encouraged, so it’s been fun meeting new people every class!

1:45 PM – I end my classes with Korean Art History, which I still can’t believe Penn offers! I ended up running into a bunch of mutuals in this class so it’s fun seeing them twice a week, on top of learning all about Korean art throughout thousands of years. We’re learning about the Silla Dynasty gold clothing, gold paintings, and more, which is super neat!

3:30 PM – After classes on Mondays, I work for the Center of East Asian Studies (one of the best places on campus imo) and we have our weekly staff meetings. We usually distribute responsibilities and I check-in about how our social media is doing.

5:00 PM – This is also a popular office hours time for my professors this semester, so I’ll usually stop by to ask questions about the course or talk about my research! On Thursdays, this is also when my Arabic Drumming class is, which is probably the first class I’ve taken purely for fun and I absolutely love it.

6:00 PM – Dinner time! I love eating alone, but whenever a friend or two wants to tag along to the dining halls or go off campus that’s always a good time as well. Today we went to get dinner at Lauder College House, which has their speciality entrees that change every day, and today it was pasta – delicious!

7:30 PM – From here on out I usually focus on finishing some assignments for the week, from papers to problem sets. I usually do my work a few days in advance and try to get as much done on the weekends too so I don’t have to grind so much during the week.

8:15 PM – I’m also an RA and we have our team meetings on Monday nights where we recap student behavior and upcoming events to be aware of in the college house. In any other situation, I would dread these, but since the other RA’s are all pretty chummy, I love seeing everyone’s face every week!

Thanks for sticking with me during my day, remember to pace yourself, eat well, drink lots of water, and spend quality time with your friends throughout the week!

-Seyoon C.

Why I love the College GenEd Curriculum

In the College, the sector and foundational requirements often appear as an obstacle for many students, with some students trying to get them done as soon as possible while others feeling worried about the additional number of courses to fit into our 4 year undergraduate degree schedule. However, I’ve come to appreciate the wide range of courses that we can take because of the General Education or “GenEd” requirement. To fulfill each GenEd, there is always a huge list of courses that we can choose from every semester. There is no set order for fulfilling GenEd requirements, providing a lot of flexibility in creating our course schedules.

Before settling on Economics as my major, I struggled to pinpoint exactly what I wanted to do, especially during my freshman year. From all the buzz words in consulting through club information sessions and panels, I had thought that I wanted to go into consulting or product management as a career. This made me want to plan out my course schedule to ensure that I would focus only on gaining those skills relevant to my career. However, having to fulfill the GenEd requirements, I have learned how much I really appreciate the encouragement by the College to explore career paths through the GenEd classes. I believe that without the GenEd requirement, I may have never explored some interest areas that I now have today. The College’s unique GenEd requirement, alongside the major course requirements, has expanded my perspective and eased the stress of choosing a career by providing opportunities to explore various subject areas. Because of the GenEd requirements, I decided to explore the legal field last semester through taking courses such as “Law and Society” as well as “Introduction of Psychology.” Similar courses have helped me realize my interest in learning more about how corporations interact with US policy and government, encouraging me to register for the course Employment and Law this semester. In other words, the GenEd requirements have played a crucial role in shaping my academic journey, allowing me to discover new interests and gain clarity on the career path I truly want to pursue.

Not just academically, but the diverse friends I’ve gotten to meet through these GenEd courses have made the College experience more unique. For example, the flexibility of GenEd courses has given me the opportunity to take classes with friends pursuing pre-med—an experience I wouldn’t have had without these requirements. Despite not having any overlapping clubs or major courses with my roommate, I will be taking a class with her through the “The Physical World” GenEd requirement this semester. Hence, the GenEds have not only helped me narrow down my career interests but have also given me the opportunity to study with diverse students. I believe that this is the beauty about the College. The idea of the GenEd requirement by the College almost is like an encouragement to keep learning just for the sake of learning.

- Yoonjung C.