Exploration

When I was admitted to Penn in the spring, I was already planning out my 4 years of college. I wrote down what clubs I wanted to join, the classes I wanted to take, and fields of study I wanted to pursue. I was so motivated to stick to my idea of “the perfect college experience” that I didn’t realize what I was missing until I stepped onto campus during New Student Orientation (NSO) in August.

In August, the College hosted an Exploration Expo, where students had the chance to interact with faculty members from various academic departments. I found this experience immensely valuable, as it allowed me to delve deeper into the South Asian Studies program and explore potential opportunities within the neuroscience department. This experience broadened my perspective on the wealth of knowledge that the College had to offer. Penn's curriculum ensures that students receive a well-rounded education, irrespective of their major, through Sector Requirements. As a result, I had the opportunity to engage with the Indonesian community in Philadelphia and rekindle my passion for South Asian history.

As a freshman in the College, my advice to prospective students would be to seize the myriad opportunities that Penn offers. The College opens up a world of endless possibilities—the sky truly is the limit. It provides a wealth of resources to help you embark on your journey as a Quaker, whether it's by exploring classes outside your comfort zone or finding a community of like-minded individuals. The College serves as the epicenter for every endeavor you dare to undertake!

- A. Madhira