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.