Drexel University: Philadelphia Location Pros/Cons?

So, I'm considering Drexel University and I'm curious about its location in Philadelphia. Can any current or former Drexel students share their thoughts on the pros and cons of going to school in Philly? How's the city life there?

I can provide you with some insights about how Drexel's location in Philadelphia shapes its students' experiences. Please note that some pros and cons might vary depending on your individual preferences, interests, and goals, so the following breakdown is just meant to be general guidance:

Pros:

1. Culture: Philadelphia is known for its rich history, diverse cultural attractions, and vibrant arts scene. You'll have access to world-class museums, historical landmarks, galleries, and performing arts venues.

2. Food Scene: Philly offers a diverse culinary scene, which brings together gastronomic experiences from all around the world. The city is particularly famous for cheesesteaks, but you'll also find amazing pizza joints, ethnic restaurants, food markets, and more.

3. Access to Internships and Job Opportunities: Philadelphia's thriving city center provides Drexel students with access to numerous internships and job opportunities. This access can be particularly beneficial for students in programs such as business, engineering, or healthcare that emphasize co-op experiences and practical work experience.

4. Public Transportation: Philly has a fairly extensive public transportation network, which makes it easy for Drexel students to explore the city and its surrounding areas. The SEPTA system connects the university to various neighborhoods, with bus, trolley, and regional rail services.

5. Sports and Recreation: Philadelphia is a sports-loving city, with passionate fans supporting their local teams like the Eagles, Flyers, Sixers, and Phillies. College students can join in the city's sporting enthusiasm or participate in recreational activities at numerous parks and scenic trails.

Cons:

1. Safety: Like in any major city, crime and safety are concerns in parts of Philadelphia. Drexel's urban campus is located adjacent to some neighborhoods that experience crime, so it's important to take proper precautions and remain vigilant.

2. Cost of Living: Philadelphia can be expensive in terms of housing, food, and entertainment. As a college student, you may need to budget wisely to cope with the cost of living in the city.

3. Weather: Some students might find the winters in Philadelphia to be cold and snowy, while others might struggle with the humidity during the summer months. However, some students enjoy the pronounced seasonality of Philadelphia.

4. Traffic: With its bustling city atmosphere, Philadelphia can experience heavy traffic and parking issues. Navigating the city by car can be a bit frustrating, so utilizing public transportation or biking can be helpful.

In summary, the pros and cons of attending Drexel University in Philadelphia largely depend on your personal preferences and your ability to adapt to city life. While Philadelphia provides excellent cultural, professional, and social opportunities, it's essential to be mindful of the challenges that come with living in a large urban environment.

If you do end up applying to Drexel and want tips on how to maximize your chances of acceptance, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle their school-specific supplemental essay prompts: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-drexel-university-essays/. Best of luck with your college search!