Unlocking the College Door: Essential Keys to your Application Journey

1. Start Early and Stay Organized

Starting your college application process early can significantly reduce stress and help you put your best foot forward. Here’s how to effectively manage your time and stay organized:

- Create a Timeline: Begin by mapping out all critical dates for your chosen colleges, including application deadlines, financial aid submissions, and standardized test dates. Use a calendar app or a physical planner to mark these dates clearly.

- Checklist of Requirements: For each school, list the required materials: transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and test scores. This way, you can track your progress and ensure you’re gathering everything on time.

- Daily/Weekly Goals: Break the process into smaller tasks. For example, set weekly goals for writing sections of your personal statement, reaching out to recommenders, or researching financial aid options. This makes the process feel more manageable and allows for steady progress.

2. Research Your Schools

Understanding the schools you’re interested in is crucial for making informed decisions. Here’s how to conduct thorough research:

- Program Exploration: Look into specific programs and majors offered at each school. Review course catalogs to see if they align with your academic interests. Consider reaching out to faculty or current students for insights into the curriculum and opportunities for research or internships.

- Campus Culture: Every college has its unique vibe. Explore campus life through student blogs, social media, and virtual tours. Pay attention to aspects like student organizations, cultural events, and community involvement that resonate with you.

- Location and Environment: Consider the college's location—urban, suburban, or rural—and how it fits your lifestyle. Research the local community, transportation options, and what amenities are nearby.

- Visit When Possible: If feasible, plan campus visits or attend open houses. These experiences can provide invaluable firsthand impressions and help you gauge whether you can envision yourself thriving in that environment.

3. Understand the Requirements

Familiarizing yourself with the specific application requirements for each college is essential to avoid last-minute surprises. Here’s how to stay informed:

- Application Platforms: Determine whether the schools use the Common Application, Coalition Application, or their own application portal. Create accounts early to familiarize yourself with the interface and requirements.

- Admission Criteria: Review each school’s admission criteria, which can often be found on their websites. Pay attention to GPA, standardized test score ranges, and any specific coursework or extracurricular expectations.

- Standardized Tests: Check if the schools you’re interested in require SAT or ACT scores. Be mindful of registration deadlines for these tests, and consider whether you need to prepare through classes or tutoring.

- Essays and Personal Statements: Each school may have different essay prompts or requirements. Make a note of these and start brainstorming ideas early. Understand the themes or values the college emphasizes, as this can guide your writing.

4. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your opportunity to present your story and individuality. Here’s how to create a powerful essay:

- Brainstorm Ideas: Reflect on your experiences, challenges, and passions. Consider what has shaped you as a person and a student. Jot down key moments that highlight your growth, resilience, and motivations.

- Create an Outline: Organize your thoughts into a clear structure. A typical outline might include an engaging introduction, a detailed body that expands on your experiences, and a conclusion that ties everything together and reflects your future aspirations.

- Be Authentic: Authenticity is key. Write in your own voice and share your unique perspective. Avoid clichés and generic statements; focus on what truly matters to you and how it relates to your college journey.

- Seek Feedback: After drafting your personal statement, ask trusted teachers, family members, or mentors to review it. Constructive feedback can help you refine your message and improve clarity and coherence.

- Revise Thoroughly: Don’t rush the revision process. Allow time to step away from your essay, then return to it with fresh eyes. Look for areas to enhance your narrative, clarify your points, and eliminate any grammar or spelling errors.

5. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation can provide insight into your character and capabilities from those who know you well. Here’s how to ensure you obtain strong recommendations:

- Choose the Right Recommenders: Select individuals who can speak to different aspects of your personality and achievements. This might include a favorite teacher, a coach, or a mentor. Ensure they know you well enough to provide specific examples of your strengths.

- Provide Context: When asking for a recommendation, share your academic interests, career goals, and reasons for applying to each school. This information can help recommenders write more tailored and compelling letters.

- Ask Early: Approach your recommenders well in advance of deadlines—ideally a month or more. This shows respect for their time and gives them the opportunity to write thoughtful letters.

- Follow Up with Gratitude: After securing a recommendation, express your gratitude through a thank-you note. It’s a nice gesture and reinforces the positive relationship you have with your recommender.

- Check Submission Requirements: Ensure that recommenders are aware of how and when to submit their letters, whether electronically or through mail. Follow up politely to confirm they’ve submitted their letters before the deadlines.

- Tsering S.

Advice I would give my first-year self:

1. Don’t forget the importance of clubs!
When I started college, I promised myself I’d take a 'break' from extracurricular activities because in high school, they often felt overwhelming and added too much to my workload. However, I quickly realized that in college, clubs don’t have to be another burden. In fact, they’re one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to connect with campus life and meet new people! If you’re worried about balancing commitments, don’t worry—there are plenty of clubs with low time requirements, so you can get involved without feeling overwhelmed.

2. Take advantage of your proximity to other students!
The dorm style of first-year living really encourages connecting with your neighbors. The smaller room sizes naturally lead people to spend more time in common areas, making it easier to meet others. Additionally, college houses frequently host events like pumpkin painting, pancake bars, apple picking, and more—sometimes daily, and almost always weekly. After your first year, it becomes less common to befriend your neighbors, so I’d definitely recommend taking full advantage of this unique opportunity to build connections early on.

3. Going to lecture and office hours
I know this might sound repetitive since everyone says it, but these things really do matter. Skipping lectures is the quickest way to fall behind. Even if you can’t fully focus, just being there and absorbing some of the material is much better than missing out entirely. As for office hours, I get that they’re not mandatory and might seem inconvenient, but they truly make a huge difference. If you’re struggling with a concept or assignment, going to office hours will save you time and frustration compared to spending hours trying to figure it out alone. Plus, they offer a great opportunity to connect with other students, TAs, and professors.

- Emma L.

Navigating Research at Penn

Penn is known as a research-focused university, and students tend to find navigating the world of research quite daunting when they get to campus. Although research may be something that students feel that they need to participate in, it is important to understand that there are other opportunities in which students can apply the knowledge they gain in the classroom to the real world. It is also crucial to understand that research is not only done in a lab setting, with a lab coat and safety goggles. Research is done in a variety of fields, including the humanities, and is extremely fulfilling to participate in. Faculty at Penn are extremely enthusiastic about having undergraduates involved in their research. Penn also provides many resources to help students participate in academic research. The biggest hub for research on campus is the Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships (CURF). CURF is used by a large part of the student population at Penn to start their research journey during college. CURF has many resources, including the CURF research directory, the research peer advising (RPA) program, and the Penn Undergraduate Research Mentorship (PURM) program. These are all great resources for students interested in engaging in research at Penn!

- Ananya M.

Fun Penn Traditions

Penn is a historic university, chartered even before the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. So in the span of this nearly 300 year history, many interesting traditions have emerged amongst student life! Here are some of my favorites:

Museum Night: During New Student Orientation (NSO), all first-years are invited to attend a gala at the Philadelphia Museum of Art (where Rocky was filmed!) and enjoy an evening socializing while surrounded by beautiful artwork. It was that moment I first realized the scale of Penn’s resources. Museum Night was a scene out of a movie, where I saw the most lavish gowns and literal towers of hors-d'oeuvre. Coming from a relatively rural community, it was a night I’ll never forget.

Spring Fling: Spring Fling is an annual festival for the students at the end of each Spring semester, usually beginning on the Friday of the second to last week of the semester and continuing until Saturday night. Dubbed the largest college party on the East Coast, Spring Fling is definitely one of the wildest times new students have in their first-year. Last year, Metro Boomin was invited to campus and I had a blast going to Penn Park with my friends, screaming the night away. If you’re into large parties and raves, then this is the right tradition for you!

HeyDey: This is a tradition available only to juniors, where third-year students gather on the High Rise Field for a picnic donning Penn-colored straw hats and canes, and march down Locust Walk to officially be declared as seniors by the President! This triumphant tradition is a major stepping stone to any Penn student, and something I am seriously looking forward to as a junior this year. The canes and corny hats might be a little off-putting, but I think that’s part of the charm.

This list is non-exhaustive, as Penn truly has hundreds of traditions for students of all interests! Feel free to plug any of these events into your application to Penn to showcase demonstrated interest. Good luck and have fun everyone!

- Seyoon C.

Get to Know: Fisher Fine Arts

As a Penn student, I have discovered many gems to study on campus, but my favorite is definitely the Fisher Fine Arts Library. One of the most striking features of Fisher Fine Arts is its architecture. Studying here feels like stepping back in time while still enjoying the modern amenities of a top-notch university library. Aside from its beauty, Fisher Fine Arts offers a calm environment for studying. The library houses an enormous collection of art books, journals, and resources, making it the perfect place for students in these fields. The quiet study areas and comfortable seats make it easy to settle in for a long study session with a lot of natural light. It is the perfect place to study for finals. Whether you are a fine arts major, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a beautiful and quiet place to study, I highly recommend visiting Fisher Fine Arts.

https://www.library.upenn.edu/finearts

- Majo V.

Advice from a Senior in her Spring Semester

For a lot of Penn students, senioritis starts right after Hey Day. As soon as we parade down Locust, adorned with red shirts, plastic hats, and wooden canes, our minds are already thinking ahead towards graduation. Once senior year starts, fun is a mandatory daily event. Class schedules are lighter and fun times are earlier than ever. I never thought I’d see the day when my fellow peers were taking 2 classes a semester and could actually sleep in without feeling guilty for missing an entire day worth of material. Unfortunately, for me, I’m a bit of an overachiever and decided to take 5.5 credits instead of the 1-3 that I could’ve done and still graduated on time. Whether your senior semester is full of studying or full of excitement, there’s so many ways to make the most of your last few months at Penn.

1. Get out of your comfort zone! If you haven’t explored Philly in depth, do it now! There’s so much to see and do outside of University City and what better time to do it than before graduation.

2. Don’t be afraid to add on more fun and easy classes. A lot of students look forward to senior year because it means a bulk of their major requirements is completed. Since they still need some credits to graduate, they look for fun and interesting classes that will make their semester chill. If you really want to take a certain class, TAKE IT! Don’t worry about not having as light of a schedule as someone who’s only taking 2. If you have an opportunity to take that class, do it!

3. DON’T slack off. Just because it’s senior semester doesn’t mean the work stops. Keep pushing till the end and you’ll be glad you did.

4. Don’t worry too much about what happens after graduation. Whether you secured a job or lab position or not, everything will fall into place when it should. “Don’t sweat the timeline” - Daveed Diggs!

5. Do as many fun on-campus activities as possible! So many free food events and activities happen during the year so take advantage of all of them.

6. Have fun!! You’ve worked so hard and now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Don’t take things too seriously and enjoy your last few months as an undergraduate!

- Joyce D.

Taking Classes Under the One University Policy

I never saw myself taking classes within the Wharton school, but once I took my first class in the Legal Studies department, I knew I’d be returning for more. Last spring, I took Law and Social Values (LGST 1010) with Professor William Laufer in the Legal Studies department. It was the ideal class for a pre-law student like me, as I learned all the facets of the legal system, from comparing civil and criminal cases, to contract law, to being able to present and argue my own Supreme Court case. Because Penn operates under a One University policy, not only was I able to enroll in this Wharton class with the exact same ease as I’d enroll in a class within the College, but it actually counted toward my Criminology major. Each major is allocated a certain number of CUs they are able to take outside of the College, meaning that students can take classes in any of Penn’s four undergraduate schools while still being on track with their academic goals. There are also certain minors, such as the Legal Studies and History Minor, that are joint minors across mutiple undergraduate schools.

I had such a positive experience in this first Legal Studies Wharton class that I was inspired to take another, and am currently in Diversity in the Law (LGST 2180). These classes have provided me with integral knowledge of the legal system that I have drawn upon in job opportunities and to inform my decisions surrounding law school. In addition, the ability to take classes in the Wharton school added a more entrepreneurial focus to my existing liberal arts background. I was able to consider questions such as how to balance encouraging economic growth with corporate compliance from a more philosophical, theoretical perspective, as well as through reading case studies and learning from economic experts. I’ve also been able to attend engaging guest lectures, which was a valuable opportunity to learn about the career trajectories and day to day responsibilities of practicing lawyers.

The One University policy allows for exploration outside of a student’s home school, which is a great way to gain exposure to a new type of thinking and explore a new discipline. There are limitations, however, so be sure to check with you academic advisor!

- Samara H.

Dining at Penn

First-year students at Penn are required to have the infamous first-year dining plan, until they gain some agency in what dining plan they’d like to have at the end of their second-year. Penn dining has a reputation for taking some time to adjust to after a few weeks, with limited options for those who love Asian food like me. However, I want to say (with the benefit of experience) that Penn dining does not have to be as bad as it’s stereotyped to be. Here are some student-favorite dining options:

 McClelland - Located in the Freshman Quad, this dining hall has a colorful array of daily sushi, pork buns, chicken bowls with teriyaki/spicy sauces, and udon. Although students are only allowed two swipes at McClelland, I’ve found that it is enough to ease your appetite, and with a beautiful outside seating area McClelland is a perfect lunch location to meet up with friends. Most food options are also customizable or have vegetarian/vegan options.

 Houston Hall - Houston has by far the most options amongst grab-and-go dining halls, with customizable pasta bowls, burritos, bento boxes, ramen, salads, and more! While many of the restaurants within Houston Hall accept primarily dining dollars, they also offer great “meal-exchange” programs that allow students to substitute meal swipes for the same food that dining dollars can afford. My personal favorite spot in Houston Hall is Bento, which has a great selection of seating areas and Asian foods (the best on campus imo).

 Lauder - Both a freshman dorm and dining hall, Lauder is a popular option as opposed to Hill dining hall which is right across the street. Although the ‘featured entree’ portions tend to be quite small, Lauder also has a great assortment of fruit, other meals in buffet style, and great desserts every night as well. An advantage to eating at Lauder is that the food cycles daily, so make sure to get there earlier before the line gets too long!

 Quaker Kitchen - My favorite place to eat on campus! Quaker Kitchen is a very restaurant-style dining hall located in Gutmann College House. With the same menu every day for a week, Quaker Kitchen is known for being delicious no matter the menu with its only downside to having very long wait-times in which you need reservations to eat in. However, if you get there at around 5 pm, or at least before 6 pm, you can just swipe in without needing to wait in an egregiously long line. I love the interior of Gutmann and it’s all-in-all a great place to eat with friends after a long day of classes.

It’s up to you to experiment which dining halls you like the most, but I hope you can begin by trying these options which are super popular amongst students!

- Seyoon C.

Living at Penn

One of the biggest challenges for any college student is transitioning into a new living environment. At Penn, you are required to live on campus for your first two years. Then, you have the option to either stay on campus or move off campus. As a first year student, you can choose to live in a First-Year House, which tends to be in closer proximity to each other and located on the east side of campus, or you could opt for a Four-Year House, which is located on the west side of campus.

When you’re in an on-campus dorm, Resident Advisors (RAs) will be often located on the same floor as you and will help answer questions you may have about housing/roommate inquiries or general college advice. There are also House Directors and staff that arrange events and programming to bring students together and foster a warm community. Off the top of my head, I remember some of my favorite events being movie nights, sponsored trips to Ikea and basketball games. Even if you do decide to go off-campus when you become an upperclassman, there is the Penn Off-Campus Services available to help you view rental listings and understand your rights as a tenant. 

- Rachel L.

Welcome to the Makerspace!

As a Penn freshman, I absolutely adore Penn’s huge variety of makerspaces for all majors, interests, and goals. For all of you out there like me who love getting hands-on work in building cool machines and projects, allow me to introduce you to all the places you can do exactly that at Penn!

All these amazing locations and labs below are open to all (some require a short application or safety training) — there is so much more available for those in specific majors, clubs, or research groups at Penn.

1. Venture Labs

Located in Tangen Hall (155 S 40th street), a massive 7 floor building that serves as Penn’s startup hub, Venture Labs is the premier laboratory for those interested in building – whether that's a machine or a company! It features a digital design studio, a food innovation lab, a retail lab, and so much more! For all those passionate about startups, Venture Labs is also filled with events and funds to help get your amazing idea off the ground at Penn.

2. Education Commons

Not only is Education Commons a phenomenal study spot —see our previous blogs— it is also bountiful with amazing resources for arts and crafts. It’s located next to Franklin Field (previous home of the Philadelphia Eagles), right above the Fox fitness center, and is complete with button pin makers, 3D printers, sewing machines, laser cutters, all in a bean-bag filled room with a stunning view of Shoemaker green. The perfect spot for Penn students to dip their toes into crafting and making.

3. Engineering Labs

Now that you’ve frequented education commons and have become a more advanced maker, you may require some more heavy duty tools to scratch your crafting itch... let’s take a small detour to Penn Engineering! All of Penn’s Engineering buildings and labs are open to all (not just Engineering students!), with safety training required.

1. Precision Machining Lab – TOWN 169 (Towne Building)

   1. Primary Department: Mechanical Engineering

   2. Tools: woodworking, metalworking, 3d printing, robotics, machine assembly

2. The Detkin Lab – MOOR 101 (Moore Building)

   1. Primary Department: Electrical Engineering

   2. Tools: circuitry, electronics, sensors, everything hardware

c. The Materials Lab – LRSM Basement (Laboratory for Research on the Structure of Matter)

1. Primary Department: Material Science and Engineering

2. Tools: materials synthesis and characterization; the most advanced

   equipment in the field are available here and the list is far too long to recall in entirety.

d. Bioengineering Lab – SKIR 225 (Skirkanich Hall)

1. Primary Department: Bioengineering

2. Tools: molecular biology, physiology, microfluidics; over 500 bioengineering supplies available

Penn has so many resources available through amazing makerspaces – get out there and MAKE your dreams come true!

- Tony T.

Choosing Courses as a Pre-Med Student

Course registration at the University of Pennsylvania always seems like one of the biggest events on campus. The rush of finding the right courses for your major, ensuring that you’re on the right track for applying to graduate school, and checking that you are fulfilling the general education requirements can seem overwhelming. However, with the right preparation and advice, this hectic time of the semester can feel a little less daunting. For pre-med students, the struggle of balancing the bio/chem sequence with classes you enjoy is extremely relevant. When planning your courses for the semester, it is important to prioritize what classes you may need to fulfill medical school requirements without forgetting to take classes that give you a break from a STEM-heavy schedule. What most people find useful is listing pre-med specific, major-specific, and general education courses in a spreadsheet. From there, you can create a timeline and split your courses up based on the time you give yourself.

When finding the right courses to take (that are both intellectually and personally fulfilling), it is helpful to ask upperclassmen who are on similar academic journeys. These individuals have experienced what the pre-medical track looks like at Penn, and can help you create a specialized four year plan for you. They know what courses require a lot of commitment as well as courses that students take out of pure interest. There is no right path to take when choosing your courses as a pre-med student, but it is essential to find balance in your schedule.

- Ananya M.

Navigating Mental Health Resources at Penn

Navigating college life can be exhilarating yet challenging, and prioritizing mental health is crucial for academic success and overall well-being. At the University of Pennsylvania, students have access to a wide range of mental health resources and support services to help them cope with stress, manage mental health conditions, and thrive during their college journey. We'll explore the diverse array of mental health resources available at UPenn and how students can utilize them to prioritize their mental well-being.

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS):

CAPS is the primary mental health service at UPenn, offering confidential counseling and support to students experiencing a wide range of concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more. Services include individual counseling, group therapy, workshops, and crisis intervention. CAPS staff are trained professionals who provide culturally sensitive and affirming care to support students' mental health needs.

Embedded Counselors:

UPenn has embedded counselors stationed within various schools and departments across campus to provide accessible mental health support to students within their academic and residential communities. These counselors offer counseling services, workshops, and outreach programs tailored to the unique needs of their respective student populations.

Wellness at Penn:

Wellness at Penn is a university-wide initiative focused on promoting holistic well-being among students. It offers a variety of programs, resources, and events aimed at fostering physical, emotional, and social wellness. Students can participate in wellness workshops, mindfulness programs, fitness classes, and community-building activities to enhance their overall well-being.

Residential Services:

Residential Services at UPenn also provides support for students living in on-campus housing. Resident advisors (RAs) and graduate associates (GAs) are trained to offer peer support, referrals to mental health resources, and crisis intervention services within residential communities. Residential programs and events also promote social connection and mental wellness among residents.

Student Health Service (SHS):

The Student Health Service at UPenn offers medical care, mental health screenings, and referrals to specialists for students with mental health concerns. SHS providers can prescribe medications, provide ongoing care for mental health conditions, and coordinate with CAPS and other mental health providers to ensure comprehensive care for students.

Additional Resources:

In addition to CAPS and Wellness at Penn, students can access a variety of additional mental health resources at UPenn, including:

- Student Intervention Services (SIS) for crisis support and intervention

- Active Minds, a student-run organization promoting mental health awareness and advocacy

- Peer counseling groups and support networks

- Online resources, self-help tools, and mental health apps recommended by CAPS and Wellness at Penn

Prioritizing mental health is essential for students' overall well-being and academic success, and UPenn is committed to providing comprehensive support and resources to help students thrive. Whether you're experiencing stress, struggling with a mental health condition, or simply seeking support, there are numerous resources available to support your mental wellness journey at UPenn. Remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and you're not alone in your mental health journey. Take advantage of the resources available and prioritize your well-being during your time at UPenn.

For more comprehensive information, check out this link here: 

Student Health and Counseling

- Tsering S.

Mastering Productivity in College

College life can be a whirlwind of new experiences, challenging academics, and exciting opportunities. Navigating this dynamic environment requires a strategic approach to time management and productivity. I will be exploring practical tips and strategies to help you stay organized, focused, and ultimately, successful during your college years.

1. Create a Schedule:

   One of the first steps to mastering productivity in college is to establish a well-organized schedule. Use tools like planners or digital calendars to keep track of classes, assignments, and extracurricular activities. Allocate specific time blocks for studying, attending lectures, and taking breaks. Having a structured schedule helps you stay on top of your responsibilities and minimizes the chances of feeling overwhelmed. I am a big fan of Google Calendar for pretty much everything. It's my go-to tool that ensures I stay on top of tasks and don't miss any events.

2. Set Realistic Goals:

   Break down your larger academic and personal goals into smaller, more manageable tasks. Setting realistic and achievable goals provides a sense of accomplishment, boosting your motivation and overall productivity. Whether it's completing a chapter of reading or finishing a draft of an assignment, celebrating small victories along the way contributes to your success in the long run. I thoroughly enjoy rewarding myself with a nice drink or lunch whenever I successfully achieve a significant milestone in a project or complete a daunting assignment.

3. Prioritize Tasks:

   Not all tasks are created equal, and prioritizing them is crucial for effective time management. Identify and focus on high-priority assignments and projects first. Tackling the most important tasks early on ensures that you're making progress on critical assignments before moving on to less urgent ones. This is related to the "Eat The Frog" method, which encourages tackling the most challenging or important task first thing in the morning and this boosts productivity and sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. By prioritizing and conquering the most substantial task early, individuals can enhance their overall efficiency and time management.

4. Minimize Distractions:

   College environments can be rife with distractions, from social events to online platforms. Identify your personal distractions and find ways to minimize them. Consider using website blockers during study sessions, turning off notifications, or finding a quiet study space. Creating a distraction-free zone allows you to concentrate fully on your work. I consistently allocate a dedicated 3-hour block for deep work sessions, during which I achieve the highest level of productivity in both work and study. This focused period involves activating the "Do Not Disturb" mode on my phone, locking my phone away at the bottom of my bag, and finding a quiet environment to concentrate.

5. Effective Study Techniques:

   Experiment with different study techniques to find what works best for you. Some students thrive with visual aids, such as mind maps or flashcards, while others prefer group study sessions or quiet solo time. Finding your preferred study method enhances your learning experience and helps you retain information more effectively. I personally prefer using flashcards when I am by myself to incorporate more active recall into my study sessions, however, I love working with other students in my classes because I find that I always learn something new and it makes it more enjoyable. When I am by myself, I prefer utilizing flashcards to enhance active recall during my study sessions. However, I love collaborating with my friends in my classes because I find myself constantly learning new things from every person. 

6. Practice Time Management:

   Time management is a skill that will serve you well beyond college. Break your day into manageable chunks, allocate specific time periods for different tasks, and stick to deadlines. Time management is not only about getting things done but also about ensuring a healthy work-life balance. I'm the biggest fan of the 8-8-8 method, where I divide my day into three segments, allotting 8 hours for classes, studying, and assignments, another 8 hours for essential sleep, and the remaining 8 hours for extracurriculars, enjoyable events, and my personal time. The last block of 8 hours offers plenty of flexibility and room for my individual preferences.

7. Take Care of Yourself:

   A productive college experience is not just about academics; it also involves taking care of your physical and mental well-being. Ensure you get enough sleep, maintain a balanced diet, and engage in regular exercise. A healthy lifestyle positively impacts your energy levels, focus, and overall productivity. Starting from last month, I've integrated a 15-minute journaling session into my morning routine. It's been a total mood booster, making me way happier and keeping that positive vibe going strong all day, every day.

8. Utilize Resources:

   Colleges offer a plethora of resources to support students academically. Take advantage of tutoring services, study groups, and workshops. Professors and academic advisors are valuable resources as well. In addition, seek student health and counseling if you’re ever feeling overwhelmed. Don't hesitate to seek help when needed, as it's a sign of strength, not weakness. Remember, we all want everyone to thrive at Penn. I love going to professor office hours because it always helps me get a better grip on the material. I leave feeling way more confident than when I walked in.

All in all, mastering productivity in college is a journey that involves developing effective habits, staying organized, and finding a balance that works for you. By implementing the tips mentioned above, you'll not only excel academically but also make the most of the enriching experiences college has to offer. Remember, college is not just about getting good grades; it's about personal growth and preparing for a successful future.

- Tsering S.

Where do Penn students study?

Everyone has their own study preferences - some need silence, others want noise. Some people find one spot they love and stick with it, others need a frequent change of pace. Luckily, there are tons of different spots to study on and around Penn’s campus, encompassing all types of environments, from silent to social. Here are some of the most popular:

The Libraries: There are three main libraries where undergraduates study. Van Pelt, the biggest library on campus, has a variety of different spaces for students to choose from. There are completely silent spaces like the Shakespeare Library on the top floor and the Reading Room on the first, as well as more social areas where talking is common. Students can work in the stacks, and they can also book group study rooms (GSRs) to work with others. The Fisher Fine Arts library is beautiful and has super academic vibes. It’s also a quiet library and is a great spot to go when you really need to be productive. Lastly, Biotech Commons has big, modern study spaces with tons of natural light, and is located near the med school campus. 

Academic Buildings: While libraries might be the most obvious places to go for a study session, many of Penn’s academic buildings also offer great spaces for individual and group work. Huntsman Hall hosts Wharton classes but has a big study lounge on the ground floor open to all students. Many other buildings have smaller study areas, or GSRs that are available for students to book. One of my go-to spots is the lobby of PCPSE (our political science and economics building), which features really comfortable booths that are always in high demand.

Coffee Shops: For those who prefer a bit of background noise while they work, there’s a plethora of coffee shops on and near campus. Among other options, there are three Starbucks in the area, including one on campus that takes dining dollars! There’s also a student-run café called Williams Café which is a popular spot for students in between classes and, my personal favorite, a shop called Saxbys which has good coffee, a nice atmosphere, and both indoor and outdoor tables.

Outside: When the weather is nice, it’s common to see groups of students studying at the tables scattered around campus -- on Locust Walk, High Rise Field, near College Green, near the bio pond, the list goes on. You might even see students with picnic blankets set up on the grass. It’s a perfect way to study with friends and enjoy campus.

 - Lucy K.

Research Beyond STEM

For many incoming students, the opportunity to participate in research often ranks highly in their list of interests and priorities. Thankfully, at Penn, research isn’t just a passing feature of academics-but a defining part of student life. In this post, I’ll do my best to share my own experiences with research and to showcase a variety of opportunities for all majors through my friends’ anecdotes.

The university encourages close collaboration between students and professors, creating an environment where undergraduates can actively contribute to ongoing faculty-led projects. Whether it's in the fields of humanities or STEM, programs like PURM and CURF allow students to participate in mentorship as they develop their research skills/interests. For students who enjoy doing research more independently, the University Scholars program or WOLF Humanities Fellowship are excellent opportunities to do so. Students are required to choose faculty mentors, but for the most part, research tends to be more student-driven in nature.

Although research may take an independent format, it almost certainly doesn’t have to be. When I started a research assistant position at the Annenberg School for Communications, I wasn’t actively searching for research at all, my TA in my political science course simply proposed the idea to me and asked if I’d like to help her with a project regarding partisan media and voter polarization.

As a history major, it would be remiss of me not to mention some humanities specific research opportunities. I have many friends involved with the PORES fellowship, an opportunity for students specifically interested in election studies and opinion research, incorporating studies of political science with data science, although you do not have to have any background in this to apply. Additionally, SHIP (Summer Humanities Internship Program) invites humanities majors to take part in summer research internships for art galleries, Philadelphia museums, local historical sites, or even radio stations.

All the opportunities above barely cover even the tip of the research iceberg at Penn. If you can take anything away from this, know that it’s never too late to do research and to never be afraid of reaching out to faculty for help. Penn professors are kind and welcoming; they are here for you! Embrace the possibilities and let your spirit of natural inquiry guide you as you embark on your research adventure. Good luck!

- Seyoon C.

How going abroad can work with your academic ambitions at Penn

Ever since the beginning of my college process, I was always certain that I’d go abroad. Flash forward a few years to the middle of my second year of Penn, I found myself daunted by how to make that dream a reality. Earlier that year, I’d taken my first Criminology class. After learning how the major combined my passion for criminal justice with the interdisciplinarity Penn is so well known for, I declared a second major in Criminology. While I was excited by this new prospect academically, I worried adding on a second major would make it difficult to go abroad and still complete all my requirements on time.

I was fairly certain I wanted to go abroad in the United Kingdom, so I brought these concerns to Penn Abroad’s UK advisor, who assured me that the abroad office works with each student to find a way to determine a way for abroad to fit into their academic plan at Penn. I immediately felt more at ease, and she directed me to the Penn English in Program in London, which would allow me to complete requirements for my English major while studying with renowned faculty at King’s College London and going on exciting excursions as part of the program.

My next step was to meet with advisors in Penn’s English department, who helped me select classes at King’s that would count for the remaining requirements I had for my English degree. While abroad, I was able to submit those classes to XCAT, Penn’s external credit approval system, and know that they were approved before I even returned home.

I was also relieved to know I still had the full support of all of Penn’s advising resources while abroad, and it was particularly helpful to meet with my academic advisor while selecting classes for the next semester to ensure I was remaining on track. Now that I am back at Penn, not only am I returning with amazing memories of an experience I’d recommend to anyone, but also with the certainty that I am 100% on track with my academic goals despite spending a semester away from Penn.

- Sami H.

Some of My Favorite Non-Major Classes

As a senior in the College majoring in Economics, I am particularly grateful for the opportunity to explore a variety of classes across different undergraduate schools at Penn. Here are some of my favorite non-major classes that have stimulated my academic curiosity in various fields!

MUSC 1300 - Thousand Years of Musical Listening is a course that fulfills both the Arts & Letters Sector requirement and the Cross-Cultural Foundational Requirement. This course captivated me with its active engagement in musical pieces spanning from the Medieval Ages to modern composition. A notable aspect was the concert reflection component, where I enjoyed the Daedalus Quartet’s rendition of Haydn, William Grant Still, and Mendelssohn.

KORN 1070 - Advanced Topics in Korean Language and Culture is a course that I took to gain a deeper understanding of my culture, though I have already fulfilled my foreign language requirements by testing out before my freshman year of college. With a small cohort of enrolled students, it provided a fruitful experience actively discussing modern Korean societal issues such as low birth rate with my peers and instructor. 

CIS 1200 - Programming Languages and Techniques is a course that I took during my first semester at Penn as a freshman. Though it was during a remote semester, I thoroughly enjoyed the course because of the availability of professors and TAs who were incredibly invested in  students’ success. It enhanced my algorithmic thinking, which was especially beneficial when I was later taking other quantitative-based courses. What’s unique about this course is that students learn both OCaml and JAVA, providing an early opportunity to develop practical programming skills. 

OIDD 2910 - Negotiations is a course that is affiliated with the Wharton School of Business. This course equipped me with tangible life skills. Due to the tight-knit learning environment, I not only learned various negotiation techniques to achieve successful and collaborative outcomes but also applied them to practice. Each lecture began with students being placed into 1:1 matches or small cohorts to complete a role-playing exercise based on differing themes (e.g. home buyer and seller, HR manager and job candidate). 

- Rachel L.

Philadelphia as an extension of campus

When thinking about my decisions to transfer, I was stuck between a few schools. Debating between staying on the East Coast or staying in a rural area, in the end, what made me ultimately choose Penn was its advantageous location and urban environment. So today, I’d like to tell you about one of the most remarkable things about being a Penn student: being in the heart of Philadelphia!

Philly is not just a fun place to explore on the weekends, but is an extension of the academics, extracurriculars, and internship opportunities offered at Penn. Urban studies is a bustling major here for obvious reasons, and whether you're interested in finance, technology, tutoring, or the arts, Philly is a playground where you can apply what you learned in the classroom to practical situations. Some students interested in financial services work at the Philadelphia Federal Reserve Bank, those with engineering backgrounds may work at various technology start-ups, or assist local Philadelphia schools through the West Philadelphia Tutoring Project. No matter the field, there will be something for you to get involved in and get work experience through it.

Being a New York native, I was doubtful that the Philadelphia food scene could compare to home, but I was shocked to find places that I enjoyed more than NYC! Philly is a food lover’s paradise, aside from cheesesteaks, places like Reading Terminal Market or Rittenhouse Square are extremely popular destinations among Penn students. Reading Terminal Market in particular is right next to Chinatown, while smaller than the Chinatown that I am used to, still has a plethora of delicious dessert shops and restaurants! Korea Taqueria, Clark Park Farmers Market, or Madis Coffee are underrated places which I highly recommend due to their budget friendly prices and proximity to campus!

Another pro to being in a big city is the arts scene that Philly offers. It is an annual NSO tradition for Penn to rent out the entire Philadelphia Museum of Art for first-year students to party the night away whilst viewing the beautiful collection of artwork. Philly’s Museum of Art, alongside the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, offers discounted prices for Penn students to visit for class or leisure. Johnny Brendas is another popular music show venue, with an excellent atmosphere and a place to take a break from the academics of everyday life. 

Take it from a student who transferred from a school in the middle of nowhere, Philadelphia made my decision worth it. Being a Penn student means so much more than rigorous academics and pre-professionalism; it’s a way to embrace a new lifestyle that extends past campus borders. People who say they find Penn monotonous are often the ones who never explore Center City or West Philly. So get ready to explore and thrive in the City of Brotherly Love - your extended home at Penn!

- Seyoon C.

Why I think Franklin’s Table is the best place to eat on campus

When I first came to Penn, I was absolutely terrified about one thing and one thing only, the food. As an international student from Mexico, a country known for having perhaps the best gastronomy in the world, I had very low expectations for American food. I did not think there would be any variety when it came to food on Penn’s campus, I thought I would have to stick with repetitive dining hall food. But one day, I discovered a gem. That gem is called Franklin’s Table. It is very similar to a food market we have in Mexico City, so I was excited to try it out. My excitement grew when I realized how popular it is, it is always full and a lot of my friends love it too.

The great thing about Franklin’s Table is that there are many options in one place, so if you can’t decide where to eat with one of your friends, it is a good idea to go there. Out of all the places my favorites are Goldie and DK Sushi. Goldie has the best hummus, and falafel sandwiches ever, and DK Sushi has delicious bowls with super fresh fish. But if you do not like these options you could always get a classic Philly Cheesesteak or a freshly made brick oven pizza. The possibilities are endless…or maybe not, but you can still choose between many things. And they’re always delicious.

So if you are scared of the food options on campus, fear no more. You’ll definitely find something that you like.

- Maria V.

First-Year Seminars

First-year seminars are a hidden gem at Penn. These classes serve as unique opportunities for first-year students to become acclimated to college academics. These classes are not required, but they are quite beneficial because they allow students to directly interact with a faculty member in a small class setting. The seminars are usually focused on a specific academic topic and can fulfill one of the College General Education Requirements.

First-year seminars cover a variety of topics, such as biology, literature, mathematics, music, and virtual reality. This semester, I am enrolled in a first-year seminar called Climate Change, Community and the Arts in Indonesia. The seminar is centered around the way that communities in Indonesia adapt to climate change through interpersonal connections, the arts, and politics. This seminar has allowed me to learn about topics that were not a part of my intended field of study when I got to Penn, and has motivated me to continue my study of them as I progress through college. In addition to learning about niche topics, many students at Penn agree that first-year seminars are a perfect place to make meaningful connections with other students. In fact, I met many of my close friends through my first-year seminar.

First-year seminars are a great way to start your academic life at Penn, and the benefits are truly infinite!

- Ananya M.