Prableen Kaur
Wharton & CAS ’26
LSM (Biology and Healthcare Management)
SA: University of Edinburgh (BED) (Exchange)
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Ask Me About…
As a dual degree student, I initially thought it wasn’t possible to study abroad. However, after talking to my advisors and coming up with a clear plan / course schedule, I realized I could go abroad and still graduate in time. I am happy to talk more about the logistics that go into planning and preparing for a semester abroad – it is so worth it! I can also talk more about studying abroad as a Biology major, including managing travel while staying on top of courses. Lastly, I am a huge advocate for studying abroad in Edinburgh – so if you have any questions about the program, culture, or location, please feel free to reach out!
My Experience Abroad
As a Biology and Healthcare Management double major, I went abroad wanting to have a different learning experience from Penn. I was able to do just that with the biology classes I took at the University of Edinburgh, which had multiple professors, a focus on writing research papers, and cumulative practicals where I could conduct my own studies. I was also able to take an elective class in the School of Social and Political Science, which focused on weekly lectures and smaller recitations.
Beyond academics, being immersed in an entirely new culture helped me gain a sense of independence and confidence in my ability to make meaningful connections and learn new perspectives. I was also able to travel across Europe throughout the semester, making lifelong memories and seeing parts of the world I wouldn’t have otherwise.
Other Highlights
- People – Being abroad allowed me to meet new students from all over the world that I now call some of my closest friends. I also got closer with students from Penn that I wouldn’t have met otherwise.
- Independence – Taking less classes than I usually do at Penn and having less extracurricular commitments gave me the opportunity to explore new interests / hobbies. With the free time I had, I learned how to enjoy having time just to myself, and was able to create an entirely new routine across the world. I feel a new sense of independence coming back to campus.
- Travelling – From camel riding in the Sahara Desert to snorkeling in Malta, I was able to see and experience so many different environments with new and old friends. I will cherish those memories forever.
