10 Things to Look Forward to During Your Exchange at Penn
Semester Abroad: Exchange at Penn
Amanda, one of the Exchange at Penn Correspondents, shares her experience here at Penn during the Fall 2025 semester. Follow along with the group of correspondents on our blog and look out for their images on the @pennabroad Instagram feed.
If you’re considering studying abroad at the University of Pennsylvania but feel overwhelmed with the idea of starting over somewhere completely new, this one’s for you. Between all the logistics, fear of the unknown, and adapting to new environments that come with doing an exchange semester (or year!), I know that it can feel a little anxiety-inducing. However, I’m writing this blog to reassure you that once you start your Exchange at Penn journey, all your worries and concerns will fade away. Studying abroad is one of those experiences that feels so enriching and fulfilling once you’ve actually lived it. You might be intimidated by the idea of exchange studies right now, but trust me, it’s all worth it. But before I get into that, here’s a little about myself. I’m Amanda Namour, a current exchange student at the Wharton School of Business, studying Business Management. Coming to Penn for my exchange has been one of the most exciting experiences of my academic journey so far. Between the unparalleled academics, the vibrant campus life, and all of the incredible events, every week here brings something new to discover. Now that I have introduced myself, here are ten things you can look forward to during your exchange at UPenn.
1. Having the opportunity to talk with industry leaders.
One of the things that makes studying at Penn so unique is how connected it is to the real world. I have experienced this amazing benefit both in class and through clubs. For example, in my Principles of Advertising class, we regularly have guest speakers who share their experiences working in the industry. It’s such an inspiring way to bridge theory and practice. I also joined the Music Business at Penn Events Committee, which hosts fascinating industry professionals during weekly meetings. Getting to hear directly from people shaping the worlds that I aspire to be a part of someday has been one of the most motivating parts of my semester.
2. Studying at the World’s Top Business School
Wharton truly lives up to its ranking and reputation as the world’s best business school. From the professors who are leaders in their fields to the ambitious classmates you learn from every day, being part of this environment pushes you to think bigger and aim higher. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to challenge yourself academically and professionally, and one that I’m incredibly grateful for.
3. Meeting People From All Over the World
The Exchange At Penn student body is incredibly diverse, which means you’re constantly learning from people with completely different backgrounds and perspectives. You’ll form friendships that broaden your worldview and enrich your knowledge about other cultures. Personally, I have made friends from all around the globe and from countries that I have never even visited, such as Korea and Australia, which is incredible to think about.
4. Discovering the interactive courses at UPenn
Classes at Penn are engaging, interactive, and very different from the more lecture-based style I’m used to at my home university. Professors encourage participation and critical thinking, and classes are usually small enough that everyone’s voice gets heard. It makes the learning experience more dynamic and collaborative, and you’ll find yourself genuinely excited to go to class. I have been loving my classes this semester, and actively participating in the class discussion is genuinely fun and interesting. Furthermore, at UPenn you get the chance to diversify your classes, which wasn’t an opportunity at my home institution. Thus, I expanded my knowledge in fine arts with a painting class, which enabled me to think more creatively and culturally enriched me.
5. Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone
Living abroad teaches you so much more than academics ever could. From adjusting to a new education system to navigating a new city, every challenge becomes a chance to grow. You quickly learn to adapt, stay open-minded, and take initiative. These are all skills that will serve you well in any career path and in life.
6. Traveling Across the U.S.
One of the biggest perks of studying abroad in the United States is how easy (and affordable) it is to travel domestically. From Philadelphia, I have visited nearby states like New York, New Jersey, Washington D.C., Florida, and Ohio (and it’s only the first half of the semester!). Each place has its own vibe, and weekend trips are such a fun way to explore the country and experience more of American culture. I have been very lucky to make friends who enjoy exploring new cities and are proactive about traveling, so we have been able to go on many different trips across the U.S.!
7. Taking Fun Day Trips
Even without long-distance travel, there’s so much to do around Philadelphia! You can head to Six Flags Great Adventure for a thrill-filled day or hop on a train to New York City for a spontaneous day trip. It’s amazing how much you can see and do just a few hours away from campus.
8. Enjoying Events, Museums and Concerts Around Philadelphia
Philly has such a vibrant cultural scene: from art exhibits to sports games to live music. This semester, I got to see Billie Eilish and Laufey at the Xfinity Mobile Arena, and they were absolutely incredible! Moreover, thanks to CollegeFest, which offers free or super affordable entry to Philly’s main attractions, I got to spend one of my weekends exploring the Philadelphia Zoo, the haunting Eastern State Penitentiary, and the stunning Barnes Foundation. There’s always something happening in the city, and it’s the perfect balance between studying and making the most of student life.
9. Experiencing Classic American Traditions
Pumpkin picking in the fall, Thanksgiving celebrations, and your first American football game: these are the moments that make the experience so memorable. The Exchange at Penn team organizes amazing events that let you experience all those “movie-like” college traditions while connecting with other exchange students. For some events, we even got to ride to our destination in those yellow school buses you only see on TV. I know it sounds funny, but it’s these little things that make you realize you’re in a foreign environment.
10. Enjoying Philadelphia
Finally, when I have free time, I love taking the SEPTA bus to Center City. That area is lively and has every store you can think of, which is a dream for a person like me, who loves fashion and shopping. Center City is also home to some amazing restaurants, so if you’re a foodie, you’ll really enjoy your time there.
We’re only halfway through the semester, but it has already been filled with so many meaningful experiences, both academically and personally. I’ve learned from inspiring professors, met people from around the world, and grown so much just by stepping into a new environment. If you’re about to start your own Exchange at Penn journey, embrace it fully. Go to every event you can, ask questions in class, join clubs that spark your curiosity, and take those spontaneous trips with new friends. The months fly by faster than you think, but the lessons, memories, and connections you’ll make at Penn will stay with you long after you leave campus.