When I realized it, three months had already passed since I first arrived in Philadelphia, with fall just settling onto campus, and as I enter my final month here, I’m becoming even more aware of how meaningful each moment has been.
Studying abroad at Penn has been a journey of discovery, inside and outside the classroom. Every experience, whether on Locust Walk or miles away, has helped me grow in ways I never expected.
Learning beyond the lecture hall
If there’s one thing studying abroad is teaching me, it’s that the best lessons happen both inside and beyond the classroom. During my time at Penn, every week has brought something new: new friendships and new perspectives that I never imagined I would experience while studying abroad.
One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been realizing that learning extends far beyond academic life. While my courses at Penn continue to challenge and inspire me, especially through my interactions with Wharton professors, who are not only teaching me but also guiding me as I think about my future professional path, some of the most meaningful lessons are coming from experiences shared with friends, both those I’ve met here at Penn and those from the IGSP program, as we explore new places together.
On campus, beyond the historic architecture and the iconic red-brick buildings, one place that truly impressed me was the Fisher Fine Arts Library. Its classical design and deeply immersive atmosphere create a study environment unlike anything I had ever experienced before. It’s a space that invites focus and gives the feeling of being part of a long tradition of academic curiosity and scholarship.
Since arriving in Philadelphia, I’ve made it a priority to make the most of every opportunity to learn about American culture and discover different sides of the country. With friends from the IGSP community and the broader Penn community, I’ve traveled to several cities, each of which has shown me something unique about the U.S.
One of our first trips was to Washington, D.C. Walking through the monuments and museums felt like stepping directly into the country’s history. I was able to explore the political center of the United States and visit the many museums the city offers. There is no shortage of themes or areas of interest to dive into. And, of course, visiting the White House was a highlight, seeing up close one of the most iconic landmarks that appears in countless films.
Another unforgettable experience was traveling to Orlando and exploring the brand-new Epic Universe park. It was my first time visiting a Universal park without my parents, but this time with many friends I made at Penn. These were moments I’ll never forget, filled with laughter and fun.
Back in Philadelphia, I was also able to go to an Eagles football game for the first time, which became one of my favorite local experiences. The energy in the stadium was unlike anything I had ever felt before, with thousands of people united, shouting “GO BIRDS!” It helped me understand how traditions create a sense of belonging, even far from home.
Building community on campus
My growth abroad has also come from the opportunities I’ve found here at Penn. I became a member of the Wharton Undergraduate Finance Club, where I’ve been learning about financial markets and investment analysis alongside students from diverse backgrounds, allowing me to expand my understanding of the equities market with an even stronger focus on the U.S. market.
I also joined the Moelis Access Science Fellowship, a partnership between the Netter Center for Community Partnerships and local community schools. One of the most meaningful parts of this experience has been stepping into the role of a teacher for the first time. I have not only been supporting students in their learning, but also working closely with teachers throughout the week. Being in the classroom has allowed me to understand the rhythm and demands of a teacher’s daily routine, as well as the challenges they face each day.
Looking ahead with gratitude
As I enter my final month at Penn, I’m even more conscious of how valuable it is to embrace every opportunity. Studying abroad has been far more than attending classes, it has been about building new friendships, getting to know unfamiliar places, and allowing these experiences to shape who I am becoming.
Through each moment, every trip, conversation, challenge, and friendship, I am learning to be more adaptable and curious. These are lessons that will stay with me long after the semester ends and will certainly influence my professional life.
Penn has become more than a place of study, it has become a place of connection and growth. And as I look ahead to the final weeks of this journey, I feel grateful and excited for everything still to come.
