PennCORP introduces students to the Philadelphia community through community partner site visits, interactive social justice workshops, and thoughtful dialogue and reflection about the social issues affecting the Philadelphia community. The program also exposes students to community engagement opportunities available to them as Penn students. PennCORP is organized by Civic House, a community engagement hub at Penn.
PennCORP participants are students who are passionate about social justice issues, interested in understanding their new community, wish to engage in critical reflection about their motivations for doing community work, and want to become part of a community committed to the common good. No specific experience is necessary to apply, although many PennCORP participants have been involved in service and social justice work in high school. Participants will be provided with an optional reading/watch list that provides context on different social issues in Philadelphia prior to beginning PennCORP.
Selection Process:
Each year, we receive more applications for the program than there are spaces available. Participants will be selected based upon a careful review of the applications. Each application is reviewed and rated by the staff and student leaders of the program and a consensus is reached. Those invited to participate will need to promptly complete registration forms and submit payment. Students may apply to other pre-orientation programs as well and then decide which program to attend based upon their selection status.
Cost of Program:
A $375.00 fee will cover all PennCORP activities. Financial assistance is available to eligible students who qualify for financial aid through Penn.
If you have questions, e-mail seayk@upenn.edu.
Schedule:
Below is an example schedule based on previous years. The 2025 program will run from Sunday, August 17th through Wednesday, August 20th.
Day One:
Morning/ Early Afternoon: Move into your College House residence for the year
Late Afternoon/Evening: Meet your home group and student leaders, dinner, Opening Circle, Workshop 1
Day Two:
Morning: Early breakfast, Workshop 2, lunch
Afternoon: Site visits with community organizations in Philadelphia, Snacks
Evening: Dinner, Workshop 3, Social Activities
Day Three:
Morning: Early breakfast, Workshop 4, lunch
Afternoon: Site visits with community organizations in Philadelphia, Snacks
Evening: Dinner, Discussions, Civic House Involvement Fair, Workshop 5, Optional social activities
Day Four:
Morning: Early breakfast, Workshop 6
Afternoon: Real Talk (students only conversation) over lunch, Closing Circle
For additional information, please contact seayk@upenn.edu.