A native of North Wildwood, a beach town along the southern New Jersey shoreline, Marianna found an opportunity to pursue her extracurricular and academic passions at the University, while still being only a car ride away from home. As a member of Penn’s Women’s Basketball team, the Penn Athletics Wharton Leadership Academy, and the Young Quakers Organization, she understands the rigor required to balance a demanding academic courseload with a full athletic and extracurricular schedule. “I chose Penn because I wanted to challenge myself both academically and athletically. I knew coming to the University would open doors for me after graduation.”
During her time at the University, Marianna has benefited from the mentorship of compassionate faculty advisors and a strong alumni network. “Penn offers students amazing opportunities and connections to support us along our journeys.” Her participation in Young Quakers Community Athletics—a collaboration between the Netter Center and Penn Athletics—has also allowed Marianna to serve as a mentor, working alongside children in the West Philadelphia public school system. As she pursues her major in Psychology and minor in Urban Education, she will continue to seek further opportunities for meaningful local community engagement. “The opportunity to work within the West Philadelphia community and with the children in these schools has already opened so many doors for me. I am excited to continue learning and mentoring in this capacity.”
Marianna is eager to explore even more classes within her major and minor and continue working with students within the Philadelphia School District. After graduation, she plans to pursue a graduate degree in psychology as well as a teaching degree, which will allow her to further her impact within the classroom. “My dream is to work with children and be able to help them through challenges they may be facing in their lives. Working with children through psychology is special to me because it invites the opportunity to make a positive impact on a young person’s life while also contributing to our collective understanding of human development.”
In expressing gratitude for her Quaker experience, Marianna shares, “The leadership and life skills I have developed throughout my time on campus will shape both my personal and professional experiences for years to come.”
Favorite Place to Eat Near Campus
