Hello, I'm considering pursuing History as my major and the University of Pennsylvania is on my list. Anyone here that can share their experiences as a History major at UPenn? How are the faculty, classes, resources, and internship possibilities?
At the University of Pennsylvania, the History department is well-renowned and offers a variety of research opportunities and internships to its students. The faculty is excellent, with many professors being global experts in their respective fields. As a student, you'd get the opportunity to study a diverse range of topics and time periods, ranging from Ancient Civilizations to Modern American History.
Classes within the major tend to be smaller, fostering intellectual discussions and one-on-one interactions with professors. UPenn's research-oriented approach is a cornerstone of its history curriculum, facilitating a strong understanding of primary and secondary historical materials.
The coursework consists of both seminar-style and lecture-based classes. Usually, the curriculum allows flexibility in selecting elective courses within the major; you have a chance to tailor it to your own interests.
In terms of resources, UPenn has an impressive library system, a dedicated History Resource Center, and numerous databases for historical research. The school's location in Philadelphia, a city rich in historical events and landmarks, provides interesting opportunities for experiential learning.
UPenn's Career Services (PCS) allows you to explore possibilities for internships, both during the semester and in the summer. Often, internships connected to the History major will involve research, data analysis, or teaching.
Overall, the History major at UPenn is rigorous but rewarding and prepares you well for a variety of career paths, from academia and law to journalism and public policy.
Also, you can connect with current students or alumni through programs facilitated by the University or networking platforms to garner a direct understanding of their experiences. Keep in mind that experiences can greatly vary as they may depend on the specific area of study within the major, the opportunities one seeks, and personal factors.
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