Wharton Stories

Studying Finance in Dubai

Fatima Figueroa discusses her experiences on the winter break Global Modular Course: Finance in the UAE.

What motivated you to take this course?

During my time at Penn, my interests in emerging markets, capital structures, and ESG have grown significantly. This curiosity expanded during my semester abroad in Singapore, where I was exposed to the dynamic business environment of Southeast Asia. Seeking to deepen my understanding further, especially in my final year, I was drawn to the Finance in the UAE GMC as it provided an excellent opportunity to explore a rapidly growing region. I was particularly interested in understanding the pivotal role the UAE plays in both the regional and global economy, its efforts to diversify beyond oil, and its new-age strategies being implemented in the region.

Image: Fatima Figueroa

How did the course enhance your learning?

Instead of learning concepts theoretically, we had the chance to apply them in real-world scenarios under specific cases. For instance, discussions about the implications of free zones in Dubai felt more tangible when we were actually sitting in one. Working on finance projects in the UAE provided hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of financial markets in the region. Being taught by Professor Kevin Kaiser, whose expertise is unmatched, provided valuable insights that went beyond textbook knowledge. This immersive experience not only deepened my understanding but also challenged me to question and formulate my own educated opinion about what we were hearing and seeing.

Could you share a memorable experience?

One memorable experience was speaking to alumni at the Abu Dhabi Louvre. Whenever anyone reflects on their time at Wharton, they often say that the best experience is the people they meet and I definitely agree. We have such a great alumni pool, and while on the GMC, we connected with local alumni in the area, many of whom are prominent figures in their industries. Hearing about their experiences and career trajectories was incredibly inspiring. It was fascinating to learn about how they navigate the complexities of less mature financial markets or how they decided to innovate and become entrepreneurs. This experience not only broadened my professional network but also gave me insights into alternative paths available.

What was surprising or unusual about the experience?

One of the most unusual aspects of the experience was the opportunity to connect with MBA students during the course. As an undergraduate student, I don’t typically have these interactions, but they turned out to be incredibly rewarding. Simply spending time with them on the bus between sight visits or over lunch allowed me to learn from their experiences, and they even helped me decide between two job offers.

Did this experience influence your perspective on global business practices?

Through visits to local businesses and interactions with industry leaders, I gained a deeper understanding of how cultural factors might influence business practices in the region. For example, the emphasis on hospitality and relationship-building in UAE business culture was evident in our every interaction. Additionally, discussions on social issues such as gender equality and immigration caused by different conflicts in the region shed light on the challenges and opportunities they are facing. Yet, witnessing the efforts being made to address these issues also highlighted the interconnectedness of business and social responsibility.

How might you use the knowledge gained from this course?

In the age of globalization, it’s crucial to understand the interconnectedness of our world. This course deeply enhanced my understanding in both technical and soft terms. I learned about emerging economies like the UAE and how they seize opportunities, attract talent, and differentiate themselves while also maintaining partnerships. Learning how they used their culture and history to implement solutions, which can be applied as case studies in other emerging markets, such as Latin America, was invaluable. These insights will be invaluable as I pursue my academic and professional goals, bridging my background in BEPP with the world of finance.

What advice would you give to students interested in GMCs?

These courses offer a unique chance to gain practical experience and build invaluable connections. Reach out to students who have taken the course for advice and definitely plan to stay a day or two before or after the course to explore the region further, as it offers a deeper cultural understanding and networking opportunities.

—Sara Hoover

Posted: August 29, 2024

Undergraduate Program

Fatima Figueroa, W’24


Hometown:  Edinburg, TX

Concentration:  Business Economics & Public Policy (BEPP)

Activities:  Joseph Wharton Scholar

Wharton Global Modular Courses

Wharton GMCs are led on location by world-class Wharton faculty, linking innovative ideas to new business phenomena, contextualized both in emerging markets and in developed economies. GMCs expose students to a unique combination of local immersion, course concepts and cutting-edge business and social issues.

The topics and locations give students first-hand exposure to business challenges and opportunities in regions undergoing rapid change by providing on-site company visits, meetings with prominent leaders working in the region, and interacting with students from host institutions as well as Wharton alumni.  Students work across degree programs within Wharton (undergraduates, full-time and executive MBA students).

Wharton Stories

Penn Masala’s Olympic Performance

Image: The Penn Masala a capella group sang in two performances in the India House location at the Olympic Games in Paris. (Courtesy of Penn Masala)
“It was just unreal. You put all your time into making a mix, and then you put it on Spotify, and you go to Paris.” – Ajay Kilambi, W’25

Penn was represented at the Olympic Games in Paris by singers as well as athletes.

The South Asian a capella student group Penn Masala performed two shows at the India House in the Olympic Village. The 13 group members flew in from all over the world, some arriving with suitcases in hand just in time to perform and leaving right after appearing on stage to get back to their internships and jobs.

Hundreds of poeple attended the Penn Masala performances, including several Penn alumni. (Image: Courtesy of Penn Masala)

“We have a fusion of both Hindi Indian music and very popular American English songs; they’re mashed up together,” says fourth-year Ajay Kilambi, who is president of Penn Masala. “It was just unreal. You put all your time into making a mix, and then you put it on Spotify, and you go to Paris. Then people know your mix, and they’re singing along to it, standing up and dancing. The energy was crazy. It was a very, very lively event.”

Kilambi, who is from Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a finance major in the Wharton School and is pursuing an accelerated master’s degree in bioengineering in the School of Engineering and Applied Science. “It is just an incredible experience, and you’re doing it with your best friends,” he says.

One of several countries that had locations in the Olympic Village, the India House featured a variety of performers and traditional Indian food during the Games.

Read more at Penn Today.

Posted: August 26, 2024

The Wharton School

About Penn Masala

Penn Masala was invited by the India House to perform at the Olympics on Aug. 3 and Aug. 4. (Image: Courtesy of Penn Masala)
  • Founded in 1996, Penn Masala is known for original compositions and harmonies that capture experience with both Eastern and Western cultures.
  • Often wearing bright-colored traditional Indian clothing known as kurtas, the all-male group sings together as an ensemble, with members stepping forward as featured soloists during the songs.
  • The group has had successful albums and has toured in the U.S. and India.
  • Penn Masala has performed at several high-profile events, including twice at the White House; last year the group was invited for President Joe Biden’s state dinner for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
  • In 2009, Penn Masala was invited by President Barack Obama to celebrate the signing of the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
  • Penn Masala became internationally recognized with its performance in “Pitch Perfect 2,” a 2015 film directed and produced by Penn alum Elizabeth Banks.

Wharton Stories

At Wharton, Penn, Move-In Coordinators Ease Transitions

Image: Move-In Coordinator Liam Burke, W'27. (Eric Sucar)
“The people on campus are really very friendly. There are a lot of new people and new experiences in the city, so I think that’s really great to be involved with.” – Liam Burke, W’27

Penn’s Move-In Coordinator (MIC) Program is here to help put incoming students at ease. Operated out of Residential & Hospitality Services, the program is staffed by 49 second-year, third-year, and fourth-year students—veterans of the University’s Move-In process—who assist the 6,000 or so new and returning Quakers with getting their PennCards, checking into their College Houses, and answering questions to expedite the endeavor.

The coordinators come to campus a week early to prepare for Move-In. This year, they arrived on Monday, Aug. 12, and went through an extensive training session on Tuesday, Aug. 13. Afterward, they were out and about, putting up signs, setting up tents, learning how to drive golf carts, and partaking in additional essential actions that will allow them to hit the ground running when Move-In begins on Monday, Aug. 19. Once Move-In concludes on Sunday, Aug. 25, the coordinators operate in reverse, taking down signs and tents, storing golf carts, and collecting rolling box carts.

Liam Burke, W’27. (Image: Eric Sucar)

Liam Burke, a rising second-year in the Wharton School, is in his first year as a Move-In coordinator. A native of Pearl River, New York, he says he was interested in being a coordinator because, in part, they get to return to campus early. He received an email a couple months back advertising the coordinator position and jumped at the opportunity.

“I really enjoy campus and felt I was away for too long,” he says. “I like being in Philly. I really enjoy how it’s a campus environment. It feels very connected, but at the same time you have access to the city. Also, the people on campus are really very friendly. There are a lot of new people and new experiences in the city, so I think that’s really great to be involved with.”

Moreover, he says his own Move-In last summer was “great” and “enjoyable,” and he wanted to provide new and returning students with that same sense of joy.

“It doesn’t feel like that long ago,” he says of his 2023 Move-In. “I moved into the Quad. Moving into college is a very stressful process and you expect it almost to be very difficult, but I found it to actually be a very seamless transition and easy experience.”

Read more at Penn Today.

Posted: August 21, 2024

Undergraduate Program

Move-in coordinators organize signage at Hill House. (Image: Eric Sucar)

Mark Cordova, assistant director for building operations in Residential & Hospitality Services, oversees the MIC Program. He says it is an opportunity for domestic and international undergraduates to learn about logistics and leadership, as well as welcome students to Penn and help build the connection with the new and returning student population.

When vetting students who apply for the compensated coordinator positions, he says they like to hear a little bit about their perspective on customer service.

“They don’t necessarily need to have a customer service background, but we want to make sure that they know to interact with others,” he says. “We look for the ability to troubleshoot problems, knowing how to identify resources, and how to reach out to folks. Move-In can be a hectic period so we like to make sure that they know who they can go to.”

Wharton Stories

Customizing My Wharton MBA: From Entrepreneurship & Innovation to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

“Add on a major that terrifies you (quantitative finance, anyone?) Get to know your professors and the amazing work that has brought them to the University of Pennsylvania. And most importantly: go beyond the Wharton bubble and get involved in the greater Philadelphia community that boasts a rich history and dynamic population.” — Chelsea Perry, WG’24

One of the unique features of being an MBA student at Wharton is the opportunity to specialize and choose one or more concentrations (majors) in academic coursework. When applying to Wharton, I elected to study Entrepreneurship & Innovation if admitted. Prior to Wharton, I was a product development manager at CVS Health where I led efforts to disrupt the progression and treatment of chronic kidney disease impacting millions of underserved communities. Though I had laid the foundation for an incredible career, I was aware of technology’s unrelenting influence on disrupting and reforming the healthcare industry and knew I needed to evolve my skillset and business acumen as rapidly as healthcare delivery was changing before my eyes.

As a first-year student at Wharton, my company interests ranged from digital health startups such as TruePill and Cityblock Health to large tech companies with healthcare subsidiaries such as Amazon Health Services or Google Health. Choosing the Entrepreneurship & Innovation major seemed like a natural fit because it would allow me to develop acumen in technical and strategic functions such as financial modeling, decision-making analytics, and growth marketing to identify megatrends and opportunities in the burgeoning post-COVID digital health landscape. For these reasons, I was eager to explore Wharton’s ecosystem of entrepreneurship and innovation in and out of the classroom. Courses offered in the Entrepreneurship & Innovation major such as New Product Development and Healthcare Entrepreneurship, would equip me with the analytical tools and field project exposure to pitch product ideas in addition to gaining access to Wharton’s global entrepreneurship network. Little did I know that I would pick up an additional major in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in my second year at Wharton.

Discovering My Favorite Courses: A Deep Dive into Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

During my third semester at Wharton, I took a slight detour from my Entrepreneurship and Innovation coursework to study a topic I was deeply passionate about: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This was the first year the DEI major was being offered and I was keen to explore topics such as workplace discrimination, gender equality, and the historical economic exclusion and its consequences for marginalized ethnic groups in the United States. Having experienced the impact of structural discrimination and racism on the healthcare system in America, I looked forward to learning more broadly about the relationship between corporate firms’ performance and their purported endeavors to dismantle such injustices in a post-George Floyd society. Taught by Dr. Corinne Low, Associate Professor of Business Economics and Public Policy, Economics of Diversity & Discrimination was the litmus test and class that ultimately led me to pursue DEI as a double major.

Another popular course and major requirement for DEI majors at Wharton is Reforming Mass Incarceration and the Role of Business. This class is the brainchild of Dr. Damon Phillips, a leading researcher and social justice expert acclaimed for his former leadership of Columbia University’s Tamer Center for Social Enterprise and current leadership of Wharton’s Coalition for Equity and Opportunity. His unique course offering introduces future leaders to mass incarceration in the U.S., its effect on employment and entrepreneurship prospects for formerly incarcerated people, and how the business community can contribute to the success of those impacted by the criminal justice system. One highlight of the course is the “Re-entry Simulation”: a virtual simulation that places MBA students in the shoes of someone who was just released from prison. Students experience how frustrating and near impossible it is for formerly incarcerated people to get on their feet post-release Simple tasks, such as obtaining an ID card, visiting a parole officer, navigating public transportation, and adapting to new technology—all while managing on a limited budget—highlight the minimal structural support available to those reentering society after serving time. Many students who take this class and simulation end up enrolling in a follow-up experiential course wherein student volunteers serve as professional mentors and teach inside SCI Chester, a medium-security, all-male correctional facility in Chester, Pennsylvania.

Erin Guder, WG’24, Simone Hinson, WG’24 & Joshua Blatt, WG’24 after teaching a class on entrepreneurship and innovation at SCI Chester. Photo: Chelsea Perry

Seeing my friends and classmates become instructors actively engaged in lifechanging prison education inspired me to get more involved. I enrolled in the experiential course and joined the recruitment, education, and marketing team, helping coordinate efforts to expose more Wharton students and members of the Penn community to Professor Phillips’ incredible work. One of my favorite memories as a DEI major was visiting SCI Chester and observing a student-led course on tech entrepreneurship and innovation. Walking through the facility and learning from the brilliant course participants left a profound impact on me. In April 2024, I was also able to volunteer at the Business Case for Second Chance Employment Conference hosted by the Wharton Coalition for Equity and Opportunity. Co-sponsored by JP Morgan Chase and the Eaton Corporation, the conference brings together business leaders, academics, administrators, state leaders, and justice-impacted communities for discussions on creating pathways to sustainable employment for individuals who are formerly incarcerated.

Guest speakers at The Business Case for Second Chance Employment Conference hosted by the Wharton Coalition for Equity and Opportunity. Photo: Chelsea Perry

Overall, graduating Wharton as a dual major in Entrepreneurship & Innovation and DEI was a transformative experience that I will look upon fondly for years to come. As a Wharton student, I was fortunate enough to be put in positions to shed light on the privilege it is to be a student at this illustrious institution. My advice for current and future students: don’t take it for granted. Add on a major that terrifies you (quantitative finance, anyone?) Get to know your professors and the amazing work that has brought them to the University of Pennsylvania. And most importantly: go beyond the Wharton bubble and get involved in the greater Philadelphia community that boasts a rich history and dynamic population. Don’t squander an opportunity to leave this place better than you found it and unlock new interests and passions along the way.

—Chelsea Perry, WG’24

 

Posted: August 20, 2024

About Wharton’s DEI Major

By investigating how social, psychological, and economic factors affect the performance of individuals, groups, and firms, the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion major prepares students to face the challenges involved in creating and maintaining organizations that are diverse, inclusive, and rooted in equity. As organizations attempt to harness the contributions of many stakeholders, students who pursue the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion concentration will not only be well prepared for DEI-focused careers, they will also be prepared to be leaders of change in any organizational role.

The DEI major draws from courses in Management and other Wharton departments, including Legal Studies & Business Ethics and Business, Economics & Public Policy. Learn more here.

 

Chelsea Perry, WG’24

Wharton Majors: Entrepreneurship & Innovation (E&I), Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Previous Career: Healthcare

Wharton Stories

First-Year Advice: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

Image: Weining Ding, W'27
Rising second-year Araash Ahuja, W’27, gives incoming students his advice to help them navigate their first year at Penn.

Having just wrapped up my first year, I can share some advice I wish I had paid more attention to as an incoming student. Club events, career treks, interviews, and study sessions frequently shaped my first year. It’s was a rewarding time and that excites me for the coming fall.

Academics: Your classes are what you make of them

MGMT 1010 Recitation (Image: Araash Ahuja)

MGMT 1010 Recitation (Image: Araash Ahuja)Wharton offers a wide range of classes, and as a first year, your class selection is crucial. I started with Professor Thomas Donaldson’s LGST 1000 and Professor Xu Han’s MGMT 1010, both of which gave me a taste of Wharton’s disciplines and helped me identify my interests. For instance, Professor Donaldson’s class sparked my interest in business ethics and company values.

All Penn first years must take a writing seminar class, so choose a topic that fascinates you. We have writing seminars on diverse topics like the NBA and language death. Use this opportunity to explore your interests.

Your classes are what you make of them. For the most part, attendance and engagement are on you. You should build a routine and stick to it. Nothing works better than habit. I recommend using Google Calendar.

Classes are not just about academics but also a great way to make friends. Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with your classmates from the beginning. Everyone is in the same boat, eager to make friends but often unsure how to initiate. Some of my closest friends are from my fall-semester classes. These friendships started with class projects and study groups and evolved into Center City meet-ups, spike-ball hangouts, and even a coordinated Winter Break ski trip. So, don’t underestimate the social aspect of classes.

Lastly, plan your classes. Talk to multiple upper-level students. Use Penn Course Review and Penn Course Plan, platforms designed by Penn students, to make the scheduling experience easier. Your schedule should be a product of informed decisions. I suggest taking at least one class per semester that covers something different than what you may be inclined to. This fall, for example, I’ll be taking Professor Duckworth’s Grit Lab, a foray into the psychology of perseverance.

Clubs: Apply to ones that cover an array of your interests

PEVC’s Warburg Pincus visit (Image: Araash Ahuja)

Just a handful of clubs are enough to learn all you need and more. Dedicate yourselves to the few you get into, and make sure you apply to clubs that cover an array of your interests. Clubs are far more than finance related.

Clubs have notoriously cumbersome and competitive application processes. Shoot for the ones that interest you. Stay encouraged if you do not get in. Join the club’s GBM (general body member) program and reapply in the spring. If you get in, awesome! There is a mountain of information to learn and upper-level students to get advice from. You have a lot ahead of you.

Adopting a very systematic approach to clubs worked well for me. I calmly accepted my rejections and happily celebrated my admissions.

Some of my favorite clubs included Wharton Undergraduate Private Equity and Venture Capital Club (PEVC), Reach at Penn, and Wharton Investment & Trading Group (WITG). At PEVC, I learned finance and accounting principles and worked on automated-email sending and other tasks the Corporate Outreach team. I also attended our career trek to NYC (before then, I could not even recount the last time I woke up at 4 a.m.). Reach is a great marketing club with consulting opportunities, too. The environment and people are equally uplifting. My involvement with WITG has taught me a lot about fundamental real-estate-specific technicals and opened up my PMs (project managers) as invaluable mentors.

Dorm Life: Living with people my age

How my Lauder room looked on my move-in day (Image: Araash Ahuja)

With no past boarding-school experience, I was excited about living with people my age. Luckily, I received my first choice house, Lauder College House. I live in a suite with three other roommates. Establishing a cleaning schedule, getting to know my roommates-turned-friends, and befriending other Lauder residents was a process and not quite straightforward, in all honesty. Still, everything worked out well.

Lauder offers a balance of social life and independence. Understanding this balance and recognizing what you might envision preferring in a college dorm experience is crucial.

When it comes to building your housing preference list, here are some factors to consider: proximity to planned classes (e.g., a Stouffer resident will have a considerable walk to Engineering classes), social life, dorm amenities, and roommate preference (I roomed with my friend from high school and two randomly assigned roommates).

General Advice: Don’t chase normalization

Trying a Moroccan restaurant with friends (Image: Araash Ahuja)

Most first years have a set of expectations as they enter college. I want to study these majors, join these clubs, have these careers, be friends with these kinds of people, etc. What only one year at Wharton has revealed, though, is never to let these initial, often unfounded assumptions for college be self-fulfilling. That’s a hard ask — many first-year students succumb to this rat race of getting into traditional finance clubs and following the associated internship and job pursuits. This is precisely what some want to do, which is perfect. Others may not be sure, yet this ultra-competitive funneling present early in the fall molds them to follow “coveted” industry standards.

My most crucial advice to you is this: don’t chase normalization. Some of the best experiences and friendships I’ve made at Wharton came from stepping outside my comfort zone. I formed a close bond with a friend from Jordan after taking a course on Asian-American Activism out of sheer interest. I found a mentor in a graduating senior by approaching him in Managerial Economics. I discovered my vast interest in options markets and began a trading group only after talking about markets with a classmate. It’s wonderful to work towards something together as long as your motives for doing so are inherently yours.

—Araash Ahuja

Posted: August 14, 2024

Undergraduate Program

Araash Ahuja, W’27

Hometown: Robbinsville, New Jersey

Favorite place on campus to hang out: Seating outside Commons

Must-haves in your dorm room: Speaker, fan, and LEDs

Can’t-miss activities: Amazing Cohort Race, Club Fair, and Spring Fling

Favorite study spot: Huntsman GSRs

Off-campus recs: Eat at Asad’s Hot Chicken or Pattaya, order from Naz’s Halal, and visit Cira Green and Rittenhouse Square

Favorite class: STAT 4050 with Professor Padmanabhan

Must-do when selecting class: Read past classes’ syllabi and see the kind of work or research the professors for the classes have done

Wharton Stories

Bridging Ambitions and Innovations: Semester in San Francisco

Image: simonkr
“The SSF program is uniquely designed for students like me who are deeply passionate and looking for pivotal opportunities in entrepreneurship, venture capital, and technology. It provided a rare opportunity to immerse ourselves in the Bay Area’s dynamic tech scene.” — Sunny Jiang, WG’24

The following is Sunny Jiang, WG’24’s firsthand experience in the Semester in San Francisco program.

During the Fall 2023, I embarked on an extraordinary journey with a cohort of like-minded students as part of the Semester in San Francisco (SSF) Program. Nestled in the heart of the world’s technology and innovation hub, this program was more than a unique academic endeavor; it was one of the most significant chapters of my Wharton experience; filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable memories with lifelong cohort friends.

The SSF program is uniquely designed for students like me who are deeply passionate and looking for pivotal opportunities in entrepreneurship, venture capital, and technology. It provided a rare opportunity to immerse ourselves in the Bay Area’s dynamic tech scene with a campus a block from the iconic Bay Bridge and a short drive from Silicon Valley . This experience wasn’t confined to classroom walls; it was about venturing out into the industry, connecting with leaders, and gaining insights that are only possible through firsthand interaction. Looking back, there are the three most valuable aspects of the SSF experience: 1) immersive real-world learning opportunities in technology and innovation; 2) tailored academic offerings and access to world-class faculty members; 3) lasting memories through activities on the West Coast.

Sunny and her 2023 SSF Cohort. (Image: Sunny Jian)

Real-world Learning Opportunities

Proximity creates opportunities. One of the most enriching aspects of the program was the closeness to the world’s most bustling entrepreneurial ecosystem. We were blocks away from a wide network of venture capitalists, startup founders, and tech executives. Every week during lectures, we had Wharton alumni who are industry leaders in innovation come to campus, sharing with us their career journey and industry insights. C-level executives regularly visited campus as guest speakers to connect with us and discuss the real-world challenges they’re solving day in and day out.

Internships played a crucial role in our experiential learning. More than half of the cohort, including myself, leveraged the opportunity to work for startups and venture capital funds. The flexible class schedule allowed students to maximize their time in harnessing internship opportunities. These in-semester internships gave us the opportunity to apply classroom theories; and serve as a testbed for our entrepreneurial skills and a chance to contribute meaningfully to cutting-edge projects.

Sunny and her classmates on the last day of classes during SSF. (Image: Sunny Jiang)

My fellow students in the SSF cohort all proactively leveraged their networks in the Bay area to organize student-run treks and contributed to collective learning. We frequently drove down to Silicon Valley to visit companies and host happy hours with alumni. These events opened additional avenues for networking and learning, allowing us to engage with industry leaders who are shaping the future of technology.

Tailored And Immersive Academic Offerings

The program provides class offerings that are tailored towards the professional interests of SSF students. A lineup of top Wharton professors flies to SF each week and teaches a customized curriculum. Our academic offerings included Scaling Operations from Gad Allon, Venture Capital and the Finance of Innovation from David Wessels, Strategy Equity Finance from David Musto and Dave Erickson, and Marketing Strategy for Technology Platforms from Pinar Yildirim.

Sunny (center) at a small group dinner with Professor Gad Allon. (Image: Sunny Jiang)

The connection with professors was another cornerstone of SSF program. Our relationships with faculty members were significantly enhanced by the program’s intimate setting. We discussed trending innovation topics over small group dinners and morning office hours, which provided a unique setting to discuss academic topics, personal development, and aspirations. These interactions helped us to gain insights from our professors’ vast experiences and wisdom, adding a personal touch to our professional growth.

Building Lifelong Friendship and Memories

Beyond academics and professional growth, the semester was also full of personal connections and fun. The friends I made within the cohort are one of the top reasons I chose to do the SSF Program. Similar career interests and hobbies helped us bond on the first day. There were a ton of fun group activities, from story-teller nights to themed parties and cultural celebrations.

The memorable experiences our cohort shared outside the classroom helped us embrace the special opportunities made accessible by being in the Bay area during the fall season. We hiked the breathtaking trails of North California, sailed on the serene waters of the San Francisco Bay, and created moments of joy and camaraderie which played a critical role in balancing the rigorous demand of our MBA program with creating deep, meaningful, and lifelong relationships.

— Sunny Jiang, WG’24

Posted: August 1, 2024

MBA Program

More about the Semester in San Francisco program

The City is Your Classroom

The chance to explore entrepreneurship, technology, and recruiting in the Bay Area — it’s what draws many MBA students to the Semester in San Francisco program.

  • The learning opportunities extend beyond classrooms on campus to business networking events, connections with entrepreneurs, and full immersion in the West Coast and Silicon Valley scenes.
  • About a third of students take internships with local companies during the program.
  • Some get a headstart by securing summer gigs, and almost all take advantage of recruiting, site visits, and career treks throughout the region.

Wharton Stories

How MBA Students Make the Most Out of Summer Internships

Image: da-kuk
“The mentorship and guidance I’m receiving this summer are setting me up for success in a full-time role and confirming my interest in working at the intersection of Product, Strategy, and Tech.” — Karina Patel, WG’25

The summer between the first and second year of the Wharton MBA program marks an exciting time for students. After spending their first year acclimating to a new city, working on projects with new classmates, and building their network, students spend the summer putting knowledge into practice in their summer internships.  By obtaining an internship, students have the chance to showcase their new business skills, and potentially secure a full-time role upon graduation.

Below, read how three current students are spending their summer and gaining valuable experience through their internships.

Simran Ahuja, WG’25
Corporate Strategy Intern, Humana

What projects/assignments are you supporting this summer?

I am working on the GenAI strategy for Humana across the insurance, primary care and home health business. The company’s goal is to realize $1B net value improvement through GenAI initiatives and I am working on identifying use-cases and to inform the build vs buy decision.

In addition, my manager is WG’10 and was very excited about my learnings from Professor Ethan Mollick’s class on AI that I took last semester and so, I have also been asked to identify internal GenAI use-cases for the Corporate Strategy team and build a business case.

How is this internship supporting your post-MBA career plans?

Through my work in consulting and as an operator in the healthcare space, I’ve been driven by the mission of making healthcare accessible, affordable, and understandable. My time at Wharton has been spent deepening my understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, and this role at Humana feels like a natural progression.

The payer/provider dynamic in the U.S. is unique and unlike anywhere else in the world. I see this internship as a launchpad to arm and enable myself to improve health outcomes for the population segments that need it the most, and to go deeper into the system here.

 

Elizabeth Niersbach, WG’25
Global Menu Strategy Intern, McDonald’s

How did you find your summer internship?

I used Wharton Career Management to navigate the complexities of recruiting in another area of the country (the Midwest). To find my role at McDonald’s, I primarily used LinkedIn to connect with current employees and learn more about the organization ahead of interviewing.

How is this internship supporting your post-MBA career plans?

This role will allow me to get tactical experience in marketing and consumer-forward goods ahead of my return to consulting. This is a brand-new industry and type of work for me, and I’m eager to learn if it’s what I hope to specialize in post-MBA. Working for a brand with a large global scale and diverse business was incredibly important to me as I considered my opportunities to really learn what it means to lead an organization.

 

Karina Patel, WG’25
Senior Product Manager Intern, Amazon

What projects/assignments are you supporting this summer?

This summer, I am a Senior Product Manager intern for Amazon Renewed, a trusted destination for pre-owned, refurbished products. My projects involve improving customer experience, enhancing product quality standards, and developing strategies to increase customer trust in refurbished items. I am excited to work on initiatives that drive sustainability and provide customers with high-quality, affordable alternatives to new products.

How did you find your summer internship?

I primarily used Wharton’s internal job portal to search for summer internships. I applied to all the Product Manager roles available, which fortunately included most of the companies I was interested in. After submitting several applications, I received an interview invite from Amazon. With the support of fellow Wharton students and the Career Management office, I prepared through mock interviews, which helped me feel confident in my skills and experiences.

Additionally, I participated in coffee chats arranged by Career Management and joined career treks to build my tech network. These experiences were invaluable in securing my internship and gaining a deeper understanding of the tech industry.

How is this internship supporting your post-MBA career plans?

When I applied to business school, my short-term career goal was to pivot from Consulting to a Product Manager role in tech. This internship is a direct step towards that goal, giving me the chance to experience the PM role first-hand. The mentorship and guidance I’m receiving this summer are setting me up for success in a full-time role and confirming my interest in working at the intersection of Product, Strategy, and Tech.

— Abby Behrends, MBA Admissions

Posted: July 25, 2024

MBA Program

Image: Wharton MBA Career Management Services

Our MBA Career Management team is dedicated to connecting students with a wide range of employers from the Fortune 500 to start-ups. Wharton MBAs are in high demand because they create immediate and sustainable value for corporate, nonprofit, and government organizations around the world.

Wharton’s MBA Career Management team helped 650+ companies make offers to Wharton students. MBA Career Management helps students leverage and build upon previous professional accomplishments and provide personalized support on the journey to achieve internship and full-time success.

Wharton Stories

Dual Degree Wharton Student Takes on Nursing Summer Internship

Image: Image: MIND_AND_I
“The knowledge and experience that I have gained from the CASE Summer Internship program will definitely translate and help in many potential careers following graduation.” – William Xi, Nu’27, W’27

Every summer, Penn’s office of Development and Alumni Relations partners with the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) to host the Penn/CASE Advancement Internship program. Designed to diversify and attract students to a career in institutional advancement while strengthening the higher ed advancement profession overall, this summer Penn Nursing/Wharton student William Xi, Nu’27, W’27, was placed with Penn Medicine’s development professionals.

The UPenn Nursing Department recently sat down with William to get the inside-scoop on how things are going, what he is learning, and where he’ll go from here.

As a student in the dual degree Nursing Healthcare Management program, what drew you to the CASE Summer Internship program and the chance to play a role in educational advancement?

I heard about the eight-week CASE Summer Internship through my job as an Engagement Ambassador for the student fundraising office. The opportunity to work in a very niche field and really expand on my experience as an Engagement Ambassador in a healthcare-related space in the Penn Medicine office is what drew me to the CASE Summer internship.

What are your specific advancement project(s) at Penn Medicine and UPHS during the internship—and what does a typical day look like for you so far?

The specific advancement projects at Penn Medicine and UPHS revolve around data management, artificial intelligence, and social media engagement. On a typical day, I arrive early at the office, start working on projects, and have a number of meetings (check-ins, department meetings, business lunches, etc.) throughout the workday.

How are you drawing on your education from Penn Nursing and Wharton as you approach solutions and look at challenges related to institutional advancement?

My education at Penn Nursing and Wharton has significantly shaped my problem-solving approach in advancing initiatives. My nursing education has instilled a keen attention to detail, enabling me to efficiently address various challenges. Concurrently, my experience at Wharton has helped me look at problems through a long-term lens, particularly through the marketing principles I learned last semester, which have been instrumental in tackling issues related to engagement and alumni relations.

Read more at Penn Nursing.

Posted: July 18, 2024

Undergraduate Program

William Xi, Nu’27, W’27. (Image: UPenn Nursing)

Wharton Stories

The Turner Impact Portfolio Challenge Leads in ESG

Image: Turner Impact Portfolio Challenge judge Mary Stokes announces the winning and runner-up teams. Pictured from left to right: Kendall Thompson, Michaela Flynn, Mai Kruvi, and Chase Johnson from Bard College and Abhishek Raj from the Fletcher School at Tufts University. (Shira Yudkoff Photography)
“The Turner Impact Portfolio Challenge serves as a beacon of hope for a more equitable and sustainable future.” – Dean Erika James

Increasingly, institutional investors are seeking to make impact across asset classes: venture capital, public equities, fixed income, alternatives, and more. Enter the Turner Impact Portfolio Challenge (TIPC).

Now in its sixth year, TIPC is a year-long, graduate student ESG investing competition produced by the ESG Initiative at the Wharton School and supported by naming sponsors Bobby and Lauren Turner and founding corporate sponsor Bank of America.

Hundreds of students gather at Wharton’s Huntsman Hall for a full day of programming. (Image: Shira Yudkoff Photography)

This year, 175 students spanning over 40 teams from 16 universities across the U.S. participated in total. These students join hundreds of TIPC alumni across the country who have completed the program.

And the Winner is…

Michaela Flynn, Chase Johnson, Mai Kruvi, and Kendall Thompson from Bard College won the competition with a portfolio that aimed to meet the financial, decarbonization, and impact goals of the pension fund through activist positions in utilities, shareholder advocacy, and a gender lens when selecting assets and asset managers.

Judges for the 2024 competition included Nicholas Ashburn (Head of Responsible Investing and Managing Director, AMG Investment Office at PNC Bank), Mary Stokes (Managing Director and Institutional Market Investment Executive, Institutional Investments at Bank of America), and Bonnie Treichel (Chief Solutions Officer at Endeavor Retirement).

This story is by Emma Davis. Read more at Wharton’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) page here. 

Posted: July 2, 2024

The Wharton School

The Process

Each year, the program invites student teams to put theory into practice and incorporate ESG factors in portfolio construction. This year’s cohort was tasked with transitioning a fictional state pension fund portfolio to net zero by 2050; maximizing ESG impact; and maintaining the fund’s strong investment performance.

Prof. Tyler Wry (left) and Bobby Turner, W’84, (right) kick off the finals event with a keynote address and fireside chat. (Image: Shira Yudkoff Photography)

“Many business school students will go on to work in portfolio management,” said Bobby Turner, W’84, sponsor of TIPC. “Their ability to understand impact and ESG factors in their investment analysis makes them desirable hires for businesses where these factors are of growing importance.”

The student teams spent the academic year identifying specific securities, funds, and investments to include in their client’s portfolio. In addition, they were charged with demonstrating how the portfolio meets the pension fund’s impact goals, financial return goals, target asset allocation, and risk tolerance.

Wharton Stories

Building Belonging: An Undergrad Creates Community for Students

Image: University of Pennsylvania Outdoors Club trip to Shenandoah (Laura Brodkey)
Laura Brodkey, W’25, is a natural community builder who creates spaces for students to be their authentic selves and make connections.

You’ll mostly likely find Laura Brodkey in the great outdoors backpacking or hiking, but not just because she loves spending time in nature. 

“What I find most exciting is getting other people to build connections with others in those settings,” she said. “It pushes them out of their comfort zone and makes them spend a lot of time together without distractions.” 

The rising fourth-year is passionate about forming intentional communities at Penn. That passion led the outdoor enthusiast to be involved in PennQuest and Penn Outdoors Club. Additionally, Brodkey is an instructor for Outward Bound, leading backpacking trips that emphasize leadership development and growth. 

PennQuest gear return (Image: Laura Brodkey)

The Pittsburgh native is a mentor in PennQuest, a pre-orientation program aimed at fostering connections among incoming first-years through outdoor activities. Brodkey guides students through outdoor adventures and bonding activities, helping them establish a support network before starting their academic journey at Penn.  

“By the time they come to Penn, they have this support network of mentors and friends, who really know them for who they are,” Brodkey says of the first-years. “Whenever you get bombarded with all of the different activities that you can join at Penn and intense social life, you have this safety net to fall back on.” 

Brodkey, a PennQuest mentor since her sophomore year, says the program was foundational to her confidence and sense of belonging on campus.  

Playing ultimate frisbee (Image: Laura Brodkey)

“You come in as this nervous first-year worried about how you’ll be perceived. Will you be included and appreciated for who you really are?” Brodkey said. “PennQuest makes you realize, ‘Oh, I can just be who I am and still be appreciated for that.’” 

The experience encouraged her to take risks and pursue various clubs and activities, including women’s club soccer and women’s ultimate frisbee.  

“I had this insane confidence boost where I could do whatever club I wanted,” Brodkey said of how comfortable she felt after finding groups that loved her true self.   


Finding a Supportive Community at Wharton 

A cornerstone of Brodkey’s community-building efforts is her involvement with Wharton Alliance, a student club for queer students in business.  

When Brodkey arrived at Wharton, she thought that all the other students had a plan. 

“They came in and they seemed like they knew exactly what they wanted to do, and I was not in that position,” she said. “I honestly did not care about going into the corporate world at all.” 

As a first year, Brodkey sought a supportive community amidst what felt like an overwhelming business environment where she didn’t see much queer representation.  

“Wharton Alliance seemed like a really cool place to meet interesting people and find a little family within Wharton that aligned with my values and helped me discover what paths I could take in the business world.”  

The Wharton Alliance case competition committee (Image: Laura Brodkey)

Now serving as co-president, Brodkey focuses on expanding the group’s reach to all queer students across campus. 

“My co-president and I want when people see our club, they immediately recognize the kind of culture that we provide and stand for, and it’s not just queer people in business,” Brodkey said. “We’re trying to make a space where any queer person across the entire university can come and feel welcome.”  

That includes hosting collaborative events with other affinity groups and opportunities for students to have meaningful connections.  

While Brodkey felt seen and accepted in her outdoor and sports clubs, she didn’t feel that way within Wharton initially. 

“In my classes, I didn’t find that same sense of unconditional love that I found in my other groups,” she said. “That’s how I found Wharton Alliance, and I’m trying now to take Wharton Alliance and make it one of those spaces.” 

The Essence of Business  

Brodkey’s passion for public policy led her to business school, but so did knowing what she didn’t want to do.  

“I looked through all of these subjects I had and checked off a bunch of boxes for things that I didn’t like or knew that I didn’t want to do,” she said. “I wasn’t going to go down the humanities track. I wasn’t going to sit behind a lab bench.”  

The rising senior is concentrating in business economics and public policy (BEPP) and statistics and minoring in economics. After graduation, Brodkey is going into economic consulting. 

“My background is not your traditional male-dominated, corporate investment banking track,” she said. 

While her path may have been “atypical,” she is happy to have found what she enjoys. 

“Business is fundamentally about making human connections. I conveniently found that thing that I really enjoy, which is the human connection part.” 

Brodkey emphasizes the importance of a supportive community to help her succeed in tough environments. 

“You can’t actually go into competitive sectors without a loving network that helps you prepare and feel like you belong,” she said. 

That philosophy has guided Brodkey in building inclusive and resilient communities within Penn. 

“If you don’t feel like you belong, how can you, or even pretend to, belong? How can you succeed in those areas?” 

That is one of the main reasons why Brodkey works to create supportive groups, particularly for first-years and queer students.  

“There’s a tangible beneficial impact on your future outcomes by finding a sense of belonging.”  

Intentional Spaces 

Members of the Herzog Collective (Image: Laura Brodkey)

Brodkey’s living arrangement reinforces her role as a community builder. She resides in the Herzog Collective on campus, a 10-person art collective that functions as a community hub.  

“We put on all sorts of community events, volunteer together, and have communal dinners and communal groceries,” she said. “Being in the house means being part of a community.” 

The communal aspect nurtured meaningful friendships, according to Brodkey. She says none of the housemates were close friends before moving in or associated with the same campus activities.   

“It’s been super, super fun. I’ve met some of the coolest people that I didn’t know existed on campus.” 

The main reason Brodkey pursued business was to have an impact and help others—something she’s already doing at Penn.

Herzog at night (Image: Laura Brodkey)

—Sara Hoover

Posted: June 28, 2024

Undergraduate Program

Laura Brodkey, W’25

Image: Weining Ding, W’27

Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA 

Concentrations: Business, Economics and Public Policy; Statistics

Minor: Economics 

Activities: Wharton Alliance, PennQuest, Women’s Club Soccer, Women’s Ultimate, and Penn Outdoor Club 

Favorite place on campus: Kelly Writers House because it is a little homey nook with the comfiest couches, eclectic events, and great conversations. 

Kelly Writers House (Image: Weining Ding, W’27)

Favorite Penn tradition: Philadelphia Museum of Art Gala 

Something you would tell your first-year self: Penn brings in so many high-profile speakers and professors. Take the time to build a breadth of knowledge. Sit in on seminars, lectures, and speaker events—even if they are completely unrelated to your field of study.  

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