Events

Spearheaded by Penn Global International Student and Scholar Services, Forerunner was established in 2015 as a way to welcome new international students before they embark on their journey to Penn's campus. In 2018, ISSS added Forerunner Africa to its suite of Forerunner offerings, and looks forward our program in 2024 and beyond.

The initiative has involved a diverse group of Penn stakeholders and is a unique opportunity for new members of Penn's global community to connect with each other and engage with current students, alumni, faculty, and administrators. For the past 9 years, Forerunner has served over 1,500 international students and parents from around the world, helping them feel a greater sense of belongingness, connection, adjustment, and leadership to kick off their Penn journeys.

Forerunner Africa will feature moderated panel conversations and Q&A with Penn Student Leaders from Africa discussing their experiences at Penn, and a Faculty and Staff panel comprised of our campus partners who are deeply engaged in work and research on the African continent.

Event Schedule

3:00pm - Registration + Refreshments

3:40pm - Welcome Remarks and Introductions from ISSS & Penn Global Leadership

4:00pm - Penn Administrator Panel Discussion

5:00pm - Penn and Philadelphia Trivia (winners will receive Penn merchandise)

5:15pm - Introduction to Society for African Internationals at Penn (SAIP)

5:30pm - Student Reflections and Fishbowl Exercise

6:30pm - Closing Remarks

6:45pm - Program Ends and Networking