Thursday, March 28, 2013

Why Penn- asking the right questions to find the right fit for you

 Editor's Note: Today is the day students will find out if they were admitted to Penn's Class of 2017.  To celebrate that accomplishment, we have a blog from one of our current Penn engineers about how she choose Penn!
 
When choosing a University to spend the next four years of your life, it is important to determine what factors you are looking for and how important each one is relative to one another. Some people value the size or location of school, others are looking for a specific program or dual degree opportunity, and many want to get involved with extra-curriculars and organizations. While touring schools and going to school-sponsored information sessions, admitted students can certainly learn about some of the curriculum in the school, the history of the university, and even some various programs available to students. Though, it is also important to realize that there is a vast degree of frank knowledge that can be obtained from current students as well.

Being a Regular Decision Student and having applied to 13 universities across the country, I traveled to several admitted students days, went on countless student tours, and sat through over a dozen info sessions. The questions I found most helpful to ask were posed towards current students and included the following: What do you do for fun? What are you involved in on campus? How easy is it to get the required courses you need to graduate on time? Is Undergraduate Research common? How large is Greek Life on the campus? Where do you live and how good is the food at the dining halls?

Why did I choose Penn? Simple. The philosophy of the university and student body aligned with my personal ideology towards school, life, and growing up. I wanted to go to a university with a strong Bioengineering curriculum that would allow me to pursue science and engineering in conjunction with medicine and healthcare, fields that greatly interested me. I wanted to work hard and gain an education from one of the premier educational institutions in the world. But at the same time, I wanted to get involved and have an amazing four years learning and growing from those around me in both academic and social settings. There are clubs, organizations, societies, and teams for everyone, and the ones that I have gotten involved in over my past three years have positively impacted my life and shaped who I am today. I think I chose right for me, but it is a unique and personal choice for everyone. So ask lots of questions, be knowledgeable, and go with your gut. And if you do, you'll choose right for you.
 
Questions for Lauren?  Contact her at awe@seas.upenn.edu

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