Illustrations by Faryn Pearl
20th Century Novel (ENGL–065):
It may sound like a typical English seminar, but don’t judge this class by its cover. If you’re usually scared away from literature classes by the towering stack of required reading, this is the English class for you — because there is no reading. All the books are audiobooks. Download the books to your iPod and do your homework on the go — or with your eyes closed.
Mural Arts in Philadelphia (FNAR–322):
Get out of the classroom and take to the streets. Join in on the Philadelphia arts scene by designing and painting a large outdoor mural. Instead of doodling those graffiti bubble letters on your desk, try your hand on a building … and get credit for it.
Living Deliberately: Monks, Saints and the Contemplative Life Seminar (RELS–356–301):
This Ben Franklin Scholars Seminar has no exams, no formal papers, and very little required reading. Instead, students participate by partaking in monastic life: restricting their diet, dress and use of technology. The course summary also mentions “mind–altering chemicals.” Needless to say, we’re intrigued.
Learning from Children (EDUC–250):
Return to the elementary school classroom to observe, reflect and analyze the way children learn. This class is perfect for college kids nostalgic for snack–time and nap–time. Who knew that you would come to Penn and learn from five–year–olds? Become an expert in the way children learn — and Duck Duck Goose.
Learn How to Play an Instrument (MUSC–005–001):
Bet you didn’t know that you could take private music lessons for credit, didja? Learn how to play something more than Chopsticks on the piano, or even try your hand at something more exotic, like African Drumming.
Note: Audit any class: Why miss out on an incredible class just because you don’t have the time to do the work for it? Auditing means unofficially sitting in on the class without having to do the assignments or take the tests. Penn doesn’t offer official audits, but unless the professor says otherwise or there aren’t enough seats, don’t be shy: pop a squat and open your ears. You won’t get credit, but it’s more than worth it to hear that world–renowned lecturer in action.
