Julia Klayman

The University decided to shut down both Williams Cafe and Benny's Diner for the upcoming semester in an effort to keep the community healthy amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

With pre-portioned takeout containers and no more self-serve stations, Penn dining facilities — which are opening in less than three weeks — will be operating quite differently for students this year due to the University's coronavirus guidelines. 

Some dining employees feel like they do not have the ability to decline their return offers if they want to continue to provide for their families.

After receiving their schedules on Monday, international first years are worried that they won't be able to enter the U.S. without registering for in-person classes.

About 14% of admitted students to the Class of 2024 classify as international students who come from 98 countries, placing over 450 admitted international first years at risk under the restrictions.

Beginning with the Class of 2020, Penn is offering Certified Electronic Diplomas, which are now available for purchase and download. 

Penn donated $100,000 to The Enterprise Center to help rebuild the commercial corridor of 52nd Street, after it endured losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and effects of recent nationwide demonstrations calling for racial justice. 

Some international students are now returning to their home countries to study remotely without worrying about losing their visa status.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security agreed to uphold the guidelines it issued in March that permit students to take online courses in order to remain in the country.

As Penn prepares to help international students fulfill all of the necessary guidelines to maintain valid immigration status, some faculty are now taking it upon themselves to offer in-person courses.