Penn is a university seeped in tradition, both academic and social. The following are some must-see, yearly events during your time in Philadelphia.
Convocation Sept. 7, 2004
7 p.m., College Green
Your chance to see College Hall aglow in colored lights not to mention gather with your entire class and listen to University President Amy Gutmann and various a cappella groups. Convocation marks the official integration of the incoming class into the University.
Homecoming Oct. 16, 2004
Dozens of alumni flock to campus for this weekend, to revisit old haunts and connect with friends. The weekend culminates at Franklin Field for a heavily attended football game this year against Columbia.
Connaissance speakers
The Social Planning and Events Committee's Connaissance branch works hard to bring big-name speakers to Penn every semester. Past visitors include Billy Joel, Bob Woodward, Madeleine Albright and Ben Stein. Stay tuned in the early fall for this semester's speaker.
Spring Fling April 15-16, 2005
For this weekend in April, students cast (read: fling) aside their books in exchange for greasy food and musical acts in the Quadrangle for one last weekend of debauchery before final exams begin.
Penn Relays April 28-30, 2005
Our humble corner of West Philadelphia is overrun with track enthusiasts and competitors during these three days of the country's largest amateur track meet. Bill Cosby is usually in attendance, not to mention some of the top athletes from high schools and colleges all over the nation.
Commencement May 16, 2005
While freshmen still have several years before they march onto Franklin Field with their graduating class, if you're still in the area, this is a great ceremony to check out. Past speakers have included such varied public figures as U2 frontman Bono, former first lady Hillary Rodham Clinton and news anchor Ted Koppel.
Wing Bowl January 2005
Last year 99-pound Sonya "The Black Widow" Thomas scarfed down 167 buffalo wings at the annual WIP-AM 610-sponsored eating competition. Begun in 1993, the event now attracts nearly 20,000 people.
