<p>Are any of the residential programs worth it? I'm an incoming freshman in SEAS and want to live in Hill or the Quad. I was looking at the exploring Philadelphia residential program in Hill as an excuse to get to go out hopefully on Penn's dime, or I am just fantasizing about the program. If the programs are lame, is there any benefit for getting housing next year?</p>
<p>To be honest, most residential programs do pretty much nothing so I don’t think it’s worth it to apply. However, if you really want to get into the quad, then it might be worth applying because the quad is really popular and residential programs can help you secure your spot. Have you considered living in Harrison (one of the high rises)? They have the Freshmen Experience residential program, which is actually worth applying to. I have many friends in the program and the program provides a great atmosphere for socializing/meeting new people and absolutely spoils them (literally free food at least once a week).</p>