Philadelphia college students were treated yesterday to a different kind of seminar. The Young Involved Philadelphia group presented "Philly: 101," an introduction to civic and political life in Philadelphia.
The seminar, which was held on campus, covered everything from city history to political structure.
"Many students in Philadelphia have a hunger to find out what this place is like," YIP board member Josh Sevin said. "People want to know what there is beyond the bars and the dance clubs."
Last night's seminar covered four topics hotly debated in the city these days: Mayor Street's Neighborhood Transformation Initiative, tax reforms, school reforms and the retention rate for Philadelphia college graduates.
At the end of the presentation, the floor was opened up for questions, which ranged from "how to find the best cheesesteaks in town" to "what's happening with the upcoming mayoral election."
"It was a very knowledgeable crowd," YIP member Naomi Goldstein said. "It was a lively, engaging, humorous discussion."
According to group literature, YIP "is a year-old grassroots organization that aims to increase civic engagement among young Philadelphians and facilitate reforms that help create a better Philadelphia."
To this end, the group sponsors monthly forums that engage speakers and attendees in a variety of discussions. Past discussion topics have included the region's biotechnology industry and the state of City Council.
Presenters at last night's forum included Wharton graduate student Andrew Hohns, a former candidate for state representative, and School of Fine Arts graduate student Marisa Waxman who presented on the history of the city and some recent Philadelphia trends.
The seminar was presented in conjunction with the Philadelphia College Festival, sponsored by Campus Philly as part of an ongoing effort to educate students about the activities and high quality of life available in the city after college and graduate school.
These organizations are combating what they call "brain-drain," the phenomenon that sees thousands of college students obtain their education here and move away from the city.
"Our hope is that if it appeals to people, they'll come to monthly forums or see what we are advocating for and get involved," Sevin said.
