Freshmen report that their first semester here has treated them well. Emily Lizt's first semester in college has been a collage of new friends, fraternity parties and long hours of studying. "Penn is the perfect school for me," the College freshman said. "I've been lucky to make great friends, and so far my overall expectations have been well surpassed." While first-semester jitters still linger, many in the Class of 2000 say they're pleased with the academic, social and extra-curricular activities they have encountered so far. Wharton freshman Rick Schroeder said the business school was a main factor in his decision to come to Penn. "I knew business is what I wanted to do," he said. "I'm from California, and I wanted an East Coast atmosphere and a big city. I expected competitive academics, but socially it is way above my expectations." And Wharton freshman Delia Gable, a likely Accounting major who lives in English House, said she chose Wharton for its post-graduation networking and job opportunities. "It's my goal to get a good overall education and hopefully, I'll get to take more well-rounded classes later on," she said. But many freshmen pointed out that Penn's strong academics are supplemented by a vibrant social scene and a culturally diverse city. Although College freshman Amanda Schaffer said she frequents many fraternity parties, she has also explored the social life off-campus. "I've also been down to South Street and Manayunk," she said. "I'm sure that next year I will take more advantage of the city." College freshman David Goldberger said he values Penn's extra-curricular opportunities. "I never realized there was so much more to get involved in outside of academics, including social activities," he said. For entering freshmen, the multitude of social events and organizations can be overwhelming -- without attempting to deal with academic pressures. To alleviate some of the initial anxiety, each freshman is assigned to a school-specific peer advisor who provides advice about classes, registration and social life on campus. And although many students praised the peer advisor system in theory, others voiced complaints about its actual implementation. Schaffer said she welcomed the help she received from her peer advisor. But College freshman Mollie Gordon said she hasn't seen her peer advisor since arriving on campus in August. "My [faculty] academic advisor, however, has been lots of help -- we keep in touch every month," she said. "Peer advising is a good idea, but unless it can be implemented better, we shouldn't have it." Schroeder also reported little contact with his peer advisor. "It's hard for Wharton students because [it seems] we are kind of on our own for registration," he said, adding that he has counted on friends and teaching assistants for advice. But translating academic advice into practice is ultimately up to the students themselves. Wharton freshman Ryan Gordon finds his workload "tough, but do-able," explaining that he has had to learn to dole out his time effectively between studying and involvement with the cross country team. "Although I like Wharton, it's not what I expected," Gordon said. "I'm not the typical 'Whartonite' who wants to work really long hours and make a lot of money." But perhaps more important than the academic and social adjustments, many freshmen say building new friendships has truly defined the beginning of college. "My favorite thing about Penn is the friends I have made," said College freshman Lauren Land. "I always look forward to coming back to my hall after a long day." Gordon said she couldn't be happier with her first experiences in college. "Penn is the prefect blend of everything you need in a school -- great friends, academic rigor and a fun social life," she added.
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