Visit to University of Pennsylvania in October 2008 by jptoor
(Student, HS Class of 2009)
(Member since June 30 2008 with 197 posts)
8 of 10 people found this visit report helpful
Visit Activities:
Information Session:
Yes - I attended the general information session, as well as the Wharton Ambassadors session. The general info session was basic, and what I expected, but the Wharton session was unbelievably helpful.
Campus Tour:
Yes - Gorgeous Campus, loved it all. Led by a pretty entertaining student, 3rd year, Wharton. I explored by myself later and learned even more.
Classroom Visit:
Yes - MGMT100- Felt like watching the Apprentice. The masterful teacher (Maxwell) had brought in a corporate consultant to critique the students ability to market themselves. Hands-on experience.
Campus:
Friendliness/Courtesy of Students:
5 - Excellent
I encountered a few (3 people in particular) very rude people, but other than that, everyone was incredibly helpful. Some people offered to help when they saw a map in my hand.
Friendliness/Courtesy of Staff:
5 - Excellent
Everyone I encountered was as nice as could be.
Appearance of Campus:
5 - Excellent
I was downright amazed by the architecture as well as the greenery. Luckily I made it towards the beginning of fall and saw the leaves change.
Building/Facilities Maintenance/Cleanliness:
5 - Excellent
Everything, although some buildings are approaching 250 years old, is modernized, and some places, like Hunstman Hall are incredibly modernized and clean. I didn't see any trash on campus
Dormitories:
5 - Excellent
Wood floors are a nice touch, however, some houses (Ware) felt like walking into an asylum. The rooms are small compared to Stanford and UCSB and NW, but very nice. Well maintained, gorgeous facade.
Security/Safety:
5 - Excellent
There was nowhere I didn't have security within sight, the numbers for rides or escorts are also very helpful.
Overall Campus Impression:
5 - Excellent
I'm smitten.
Off-Campus:
Area Immediately Around Campus:
5 - Excellent
Mostly hospitals, museums, and university "bubble" shops. Nice, well maintained, did not appear ghetto in any way.
City/Town/Community:
4 - Very Good
It's not the best city in the world, but it's good. Downtown Philly is fantastic, amazing restaurants, great live music at the Trocadero. It has an undeserved bad rep.
Campus Visit Notes for University of Pennsylvania
Visit Description:
I was visiting campus overnight from Thursday to Saturday. Thursday and Saturday are known for their activity. I'll leave this part to your imagination.
I had a great time.
I went to Rock-toberfest, hosted by the school at a local fraternity house. Saint A's or something like that. They had a classic 80's cover band, and the bassist had the most ridiculous pair of leather pants I've ever seen. Crimson red on one side, jet black on the other, the colors are inversed on the rear end, with stars on each cheek. Skin tight. Legendary.
Drinks provided by the school, and faculty attend and oversee all events. Keep people under control. It was 80's themed, I didn't get the memo, a little disappointed because I have a legit 80's clothing collection.
Hotel/Lodging Recommendations or Comments:
The Hilton and Sheraton are on campus, however, if you can get an overnight stay it will be beneficial. If you can get one over a Thursday or Saturday night, even better. (Fridays are usually quiet)
Dining/Restaurant Recommendations or Comments:
Pietro's in Rittenhouse. It was f'ing delicious. Pizza, pollo con funghi, and eggplant parmesean were good, and even better the next day. <$20 per person.