What's life like at Drexel University in Philadelphia?

I'm thinking of applying to Drexel University, and I'm really curious about what it's like to be a student there. How are the campus environment and student life? Also, I've heard that Drexel offers a unique co-op program. How does that work, and has it been beneficial for students in terms of career opportunities after graduation? Any insights from current students or recent graduates would be super helpful!

Drexel University, located in the heart of Philadelphia, offers a vibrant and bustling urban campus life. Perhaps one of the most notable things about Drexel is its close-knit community feel despite being in a big city. You'll find plenty of student organizations and on-campus events to participate in that can help you meet others and become part of the Drexel family.

As for the co-op program, it's one of the distinctive features of a Drexel education. The co-op program allows students to gain up to 18 months of full-time, real-world work experience in their field before graduation. The experience often leads students to job offers before they even graduate. So yes, it has proven to be beneficial for many students in terms of career opportunities.

The co-op program generally consists of two parts. In the first part, students receive career guidance and participate in pre-employment training. In the second part, students go to work full-time in their field for up to six months. This hands-on experience can give students a significant edge in their career post-graduation as they've already garnered work experience in their chosen field.

Philadelphia, as a city, is another aspect of the Drexel experience. The campus is located in an exciting and diverse part of the city that offers a lot to explore, from historical sites to a thriving culinary scene. While safety might be a concern to some, like many other urban universities, Drexel has a dedicated campus police force that works to keep students safe.

In terms of student life, Drexel offers a ton of events and activities throughout the year. On top of the vibrant Greek life and sports events, there's also Spring Jam, the International Festival, Greek Week, and more. A vast number of clubs and student organizations also exist so you can find your niche and engage in something you're passionate about.

Remember, experiences could vary from student to student, so it would be a good idea to take a campus tour or connect directly with current students or the university's admissions office for a more personal perspective. You can sign up for an in-person or virtual campus tour here: https://drexel.edu/admissions/visit-tours. Good luck!