A Faculty That Fosters

At the College of Arts and Sciences, undergraduate research isn’t just an option—it’s the norm. A recent survey showed that 75 percent of students in the College had a substantial experience in hands-on, independent projects during their undergraduate careers. For the vast majority of these students, faculty mentorship is the critical ingredient that makes the research experience one of the most meaningful parts of their Penn education.

Hear firsthand from environmental science major Shirley Leung, C’13, G’13, about how Jane Willenbring, an assistant professor of Earth and Environmental Science, inspired her and steered her toward success, whether it was advice in the lab or tips on what to wear to an academic conference.