Students enjoy hands-on experiences offered in Philly
By Annie Gough Contributor
Mara Richman in front of Philadelphia city view. Photo provided by Mara Richman
Just as Kalamazoo College students on campus are finally acclimated, so are students currently studying away at the Philadelphia Center program. The program began for all participants on August 26.
Study away students are currently enrolled in classes, hold an internship at various companies and organizations, and have many ways to be involved.
“We work at our internships 32 hours a week, are taking two classes, learning public transit, going to events in the city, grocery shopping, doing laundry, attending Philadelphia Center colloquiums, volunteering, and are always finding other random activities to do,” said Beth Broady ’15.
Broady plans on majoring in Anthropology-Sociology and Business and said she is interning with SHARE Food Program, a non-profit organization focused on providing affordable, healthy eating.
As to why she chose the Philadelphia program, Broady said, “I wanted to experience life in a city and have the opportunity to explore jobs in my fields of interest.”
Mara Richman ’15 also said it is challenging acclimating to a 9-5 job, but she enjoys the chance to do work outside of a classroom setting in her passion, Psychology.
Mara Richman and friend walking two miles to the nearest grocery store. Photo provided by Mara Richman
“I’m working at the University of Pennsylvania in Psychiatry,” said Richman. “I am working in a lab that analyzes individuals with schizophrenia and how olfaction (smelling) as well as different odors affect them.”
Broady similarly said that she appreciates the opportunities the study away program has offered her.
“I am getting access to meetings, information, and hands-on experience I could not have gotten without the resources of this program.”
Both students said they will miss the setting and opportunities of the Philadelphia Program when it finished, but that they have plenty to look forward to upon their return to K.
“[I am excited for] living in my living learning house, The Women’s Voice, and taking some really cool classes!” said Richman.
