Staff Editorial: Many ways to get involved at Penn

As the move-in period ends and the last parents say their goodbyes, the members of the Class of 2008 will finally embark on their college experience. Some will take longer than four years to graduate, some will do it in less time and some won't graduate at all. Only one thing is certain: no two members of this freshman class will experience college in the same way.

That being said, for most students, getting involved in campus activities and events to one degree or another is a crucial element of a productive Penn experience. We encourage all freshmen to take full advantage of all the amenities and opportunities that Penn and the city of Philadelphia have to offer.

Consider Penn's thriving performing arts scene, from the myriad of a cappella groups to the Underground Shakespeare Company.

For those interested in participating in sports, without the intense commitment to competition required of Penn's varsity athletes, perhaps the many club sports from hockey to ultimate frisbee are for you. And, certainly, coming out to support Penn's many teams is an experience in and of itself.

Of course, for those of you interested in journalism, photography, advertising or any of the many other components of putting out a daily student newspaper, The Daily Pennsylvanian would love to have you. Come to our introductory meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 14, at 4:30 p.m. for those interested in the business side and 6 p.m. for those interested in the editorial side.

You should also consider stepping out of the confines of Penn's campus and venturing into downtown Philadelphia for museums, restaurants, plays and the surprisingly affordable Philadelphia Orchestra. It is startlingly easy to get locked into a routine on Penn's campus and miss out on what is waiting for you a mere bus ride, subway trip or short walk away.

If instead you elect to do none of these things and largely stay away from campus activities, the one thing you must do above all else is register to vote, and then exercise that precious right in this upcoming presidential election. The application deadline for voter registration forms for the presidential election is Oct. 4. Registration forms can be found at the University City post office or obtained through the Penn College Democrats or Republicans.

Whatever your interests are, you are likely to find others on this campus who share them. And in the event that there isn't a club, team or group that represents those interests, we encourage you to find some like-minded individuals and start one.

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