Life at Penn
Joining the Penn community means learning—and, for some students, living—in the heart of the vibrant University City district, a neighborhood full of restaurants, shops, parks, cafés, libraries, and museums. Whether you’re commuting to campus, logging on to online programs, or staying in a residence hall for the summer, high school students can experience the best of what Penn has to offer: world-class resources, peers from around the world, and the support of a vibrant academic community.
Opportunities on campus
Discover an outstanding array of resources where you can access everything from academic support to recreational facilities: library facilities, fitness centers, galleries and performing arts centers, outdoor art, impressive historic and modern architecture, and the 24-acre Penn Park. While you’re on campus, take advantage of a self-guided campus tour and visit them all.
Campus safety and security
Penn takes student safety seriously and has policies in place to ensure that students are safe day to day—and in the case of an emergency. The Division of Public Safety is a central source for information about police, fire, and emergency services, and security services. They also include assistance like 24/7 walking escorts and special victim services.
Health and wellness
The University of Pennsylvania is an institution dedicated to its community’s health at every level. For residential high school students, after-hours emergency or urgent care is provided nearby at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, which is consistently ranked as one of the nation’s finest pediatric hospitals.
Shopping and dining
While on campus, students can take explore the SHOP PENN district—10+ blocks of retail dining, shopping, and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite on the way to class or to stock up on books and supplies, everything you need is walkable, convenient, and focused on student needs.