This site represents part of our effort to communicate with parents about some of the most important challenges our students face as they adjust to college life. It will, we hope, address some of your own concerns as you prepare to send your son or daughter off to Penn. This web site provides a basic overview of the College's education and attempts to answer many of the questions frequently asked by parents. Although it is especially directed to parents of students coming to Penn for the first time, it covers issues of interest to parents of students in all classes, ranging from freshman orientation to senior graduation. I hope you will keep it handy as the first source of information about education at Penn.
Many parents feel removed from their student's lives and concerns during the college years.
One goal of this site is to give parents an understanding of some of the important issues that students face as they progress through the College at Penn. It concentrates on academic matters, outlining the philosophy of a liberal arts education at Penn and the mechanics of getting that education. But it also touches on a wide range of social, financial and career planning issues. As you may find there is a great deal to absorb right now, we have provided a timeline to help you match each topic with its place in the academic calendar. If you have questions, this site is a valuable first source of answers.