Freshmen>>Suggestions

Suggestions for Incoming Freshmen

Watch the College's interactive webcast specifically for incoming freshmen.

We encourage you to test your computer set-up before that date. Everything you need can be found on our webcast page.

Think creatively

Use academic advising well. In partnership with your academic advisor, you will work to create an academic plan that explores all of your interests and satisfies all of your intellectual goals.

• • The College Office (120 Cohen Hall) This is the central academic office for the College of Arts and Sciences.
• • Academic Advising An overview of the advising system.
• • Assistant Deans for Academic Advising
• • College Help Desk Contact the Help Desk for quick questions on academic rules, procedures and regulations.

Discover what you love and major in it!

During your first three semesters at Penn, concentrate on exploring all of your interests.

• • Major Departments and Programs Listing of department and program web sites.
• • Undergraduate Chairs of Departments and Programs The program and undergraduate chairs are your best resources to learn about various disciplines in which you are considering majoring.
• • What you can do with your major The Career Services web site offers a wealth of information to help you make your choice
• • Major Advising Program Advice from currently declared majors.

Get to know your professors.

Make it a priority to get to know at least one of your professors each semester. Your professors can help you discover your intellectual passions, give insight into their field, help you to strategize about major selection, and generally enhance your academic experience at Penn.

Venture beyond the classroom.

• • Student Groups Links to information about groups and organizations at Penn.
• • Campus in the City Keys to the campus community.
• • Internships Paid and unpaid positions.
• • Academically Based Community Service Courses

Don't Procrastinate.

This adds unnecessary stress to your life and decreases the quality of your work.

• • Weingarten Learning Resources Center The Weingarten Center is a good resource for help with study skills, time management and much more.
• • Writing Advisors The writing advisors are available to help you perfect your papers.
• • Communication Within the Curriculum (CWiC) advisors can help students become more effective speakers.
• • University of Pennsylvania Libraries

Sleep, exercise and eat well.

Nourish your mind and your body.

• • Recreational Services Whether it's working out in the gym, playing intramurals or taking yoga - there are innumerable opportunities for enjoyable exercise at Penn.
• • Dining Services
• • Office of Health Education For valuable information about managing stress, diet, sleep and other health concerns.
• • Counseling and Psychological Services For help managing stress and other student psychological concerns.

Explore Philadelphia.

You are living in one of the most culturally rich, exciting cities in the country! Get out of your dorm room and explore.

• • Resource Page on Philadelphia This page will lead you to information on culture, museums, nightlife, community initiatives, directions and much more.
• • SEPTA Public transit in Philadelphia