On our visit we were remarkably impressed (maybe to the extreme). The University, overall, is a no-brainer, but I've heard maybe more negative than positive about Penn Engineering, in general. The last opinion, though, was "loves it". So, naturally, one has to make up their own mind, but thanks in advance for any word on the topic.
40 courses are required, not counting labs. That’s 5 courses per semester. That seems very difficult to do for 4 years.
My brother went to Penn Engineering (years ago) and had a fantastic expereince. Five courses/semester is pretty typical for an engineering program.
Did the “Engineering” Tour, too, and was totally blown away. Maybe some tend to make excuses. “They” also say that it makes no difference where one goes to undergrad so, given that, might as well go to Penn. OK, settled. Just had to think out loud for a minute. Thanks.
Both of my students are enjoying SEAS, working on research projects made possible by One Penn (college and med school) that I can read about in medical or scientific journals, involved in club sports and Greek life. Philly is a great place to be a student and spend 18-22 maturing with affordable access to great food and entertainment.
Gutmann has said multiple times over the past few years when I have seen her speak that although overall application numbers rise, SEAS are soaring. SEAS has been investing, hiring professors, configuring innovative classrooms for group work or upsidedown instruction.
Visit the engineering department you are interested in and see if the labs and coursework are what you are looking for. You will likely need to make an appointment and give your stats. Worth the trips for us x 2.
Engineering students often choose Penn because they want to take classes with non-engineers and explore multiple disciplines and/or do undergraduate research ; VIPER and Vagelos are examples. A five course semester is a minimum, and you might find yourself overloading to explore or add a minor. You will not be alone.
Penn students work hard and play afterwards. Even academic clubs have a social component.
Thanks. My thoughts too and congrats to your kids. Visited a lot of schools and was really drawn to the complement of Liberal Arts for an undergrad education; and Penn does seem to have it all.
Much appreciated.
Parent of a ME recent grad. She loved it and has no regrets. We have none about Penn either. She had a very balanced life- club sports, activities, Greek life and a double major. Philly was a plus as well. The Engineering department met all of her needs and wants and as others have pointed out, classes in other departments added to her experience in a positive way! Good luck!