Author: Nicole Oddo, C’05
Like most of you, I love my time at Penn. Yes, “love,” not “loved.” While I graduated in 2005, Penn is still a part of my every day experience. I hope to share a bit from an enamored alumna’s perspective from the beginning.
I remember getting involved in the summer of 2005 with the Penn and Wharton Club of Arizona. I simply wrote an email that said:
July 19, 2005 ~10 AM
“I look forward to meeting alumni in Phoenix and would be interesting in helping out.”
In turn, I received a friendly response from the webmaster. Here’s his follow up email:
July 19, 2005 ~8:30 PM
“As it turns out, the timing of your e-mail was quite fortuitous — as you are a recent graduate, you probably fall into the category of young Alumni, and it came up in the meeting that we are in need of a Young Alumni Coordinator… Based on the enthusiasm of your e-mail, we’d love to have you assume this post.”
Fast forward to today, and I find myself going into my second year as the President of the Penn Alumni Club of Philadelphia. And I love it. Sure, like everyone else, my professional life is demanding and there are not enough hours in the day to get everything done. However, the rewards for being involved are seemingly endless.
I have been to private art exhibits, had dinners with professors, attended baseball games, met some of the most interesting people at events ranging from galas to cocktail parties, had behind the scenes access to restaurants like Lacroix, and celebrated Ben Franklin’s birthday in style. I’ve planned First September events in three cities and am truly looking forward to our Philadelphia 2011 party at Yards.
I can’t believe it’s been six years since I graduated and started my lifelong role as an alumna. It’s easy to get involved – wherever you are. Check out the regional clubs here or feel free to email me (especially if you are in the Philadelphia area).
Don’t wait to begin your alumni experience!
Frankly Penn 