I’m a junior in HS right now and I’ll probably apply to the Huntsman program next year. I’ve lived all over the world, speak three languages fluently, and have strong opinions on international issues. The only problem is, what I have seen over the years has caused these opinions to be conservative compared to what I’m sure 99% of people in the Huntsman think. So while I really like the idea I don’t know if I’ll fit in.
So lets say I RD to huntsman, get in, but then change my mind and rather just go to Wharton instead of specifically being in the Huntsman. Is this something I can do or will the school not let me switch?
I think it would be an awful program if everyone agrees with each other. That challenges no one to think, to support their position with facts and evidence, to evolve their own views sometimes. Being different is good as long as everyone is rational and reasonable.
I was going to say the same thing as @much2learn. Sounds like you would be an asset at Huntsman with your contrarian viewpoint. Highlight this and this might help you.
Sorry I don’t know anything about how transfers work though.
It sounds like your background makes you a good candidate for Huntsman, but why apply if you don’t think you’d be a fit? Re: the “possibly not a fit politically”, I think you’re jumping to conclusions there. I agree with much2learn above in that there’s a wide variety of political views in Huntsman, just like there are in CAS and Wharton. Why not visit or talk to Inge (head of the program) and get a better feel for it?
Also, yes, worry about getting in first. 35-40 students accepted each year, and it’s appx half male/female and half US/international. So basically there are 8-10 spots you have a shot to fill.
If you truly change your mind – it would be no problem to just become a Wharton or CAS student. But given that it’s only March of junior yr, I’d encourage you to explore whether you really want Hunstman or not; don’t apply with the though of – let’s try this but maybe I’ll drop out.
As for talking to Inge – mixed reviews on that; if you google around and read a few DP article comments, you’ll find a LOT of criticism re how the administration handles students, so think about whether that’s a good avenue. It may be a better avenue to talk with current or former Huntsman students (the program/adcom can probably connect you to a few).
Im a current undergrad at Penn and the Huntsman program is very prestigious. Its definitely more difficult to get into than just Wharton on its own. If you were to get in it, however, yes you could just drop the CAS portion and only be in Wharton