Pennsylvania Campus Life & Experience

Discover the vibrant campus culture, rich traditions, and diverse opportunities that make Pennsylvania colleges exceptional places to learn and grow.

Pennsylvania Campus Experiences

Academic Life

Rigorous academics combined with innovative research opportunities

Small class sizes
Research partnerships
Study abroad programs
Academic societies

Pennsylvania colleges offer world-class research opportunities for undergraduates

Social & Cultural

Vibrant campus communities with diverse student organizations and events

Greek life
Cultural clubs
Arts programs
Student government

Over 500 student organizations across Pennsylvania universities

Athletics & Recreation

Strong athletic programs and comprehensive recreational facilities

Division I sports
Intramural leagues
Fitness centers
Outdoor adventures

Pennsylvania is home to prestigious athletic conferences and traditions

Community Engagement

Service learning and community partnerships throughout the state

Volunteer opportunities
Service learning
Community partnerships
Social impact projects

Strong tradition of civic engagement and community service

Pennsylvania Campus Settings

Urban Campuses

Experience college life in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh with urban amenities and opportunities.

Examples:

• University of Pennsylvania
• Temple University
• Drexel University

Benefits:

City internships
Cultural attractions
Public transportation
Diverse dining
College Towns

Classic college town atmosphere where campus life is the heart of the community.

Examples:

• Penn State
• Bucknell University
• Lafayette College

Benefits:

Campus-centered life
Close-knit community
School spirit
Traditional experience
Suburban Campuses

Suburban settings offering campus beauty with easy access to urban opportunities.

Examples:

• Villanova University
• Swarthmore College
• Haverford College

Benefits:

Best of both worlds
Safe environment
Easy city access
Beautiful campuses

Beloved Pennsylvania College Traditions

Hey Day

University of Pennsylvania

Annual celebration where juniors become seniors and receive ivy and canes

THON

Penn State

46-hour dance marathon raising millions for pediatric cancer research

Pterodactyl Hunt

Swarthmore College

Campus-wide scavenger hunt with creative clues and community participation

Spring Carnival

Carnegie Mellon

Annual festival featuring buggy races, booth displays, and campus celebration

Student Life Essentials

Housing Options

From traditional dorms to themed communities and off-campus apartments

Residential colleges
Learning communities
Greek housing
Off-campus options
Dining & Food

Diverse dining options celebrating Pennsylvania's rich culinary heritage

Campus dining halls
Local food trucks
Philadelphia cheesesteaks
Farm-to-table programs
Transportation

Easy navigation within campus and to surrounding areas

Campus shuttle systems
Public transportation
Bike-friendly campuses
Car policies
Support Services

Comprehensive student support for academic and personal success

Academic advising
Career services
Mental health support
Tutoring programs

Ready to Experience Pennsylvania Campus Life?

Use CollegeCompass to explore campus cultures and find the perfect fit for your college experience.