For Mikey Marcus C’25, Penn has been the ideal venue for exploring new academic interests while continuing to nurture longstanding passions. As a Philosophy, Politics, and Economics Major, he has access to world-class professors and cutting-edge research—and as a member of the undergraduate student body, he also enjoys the benefits of Penn’s robust selection of extracurricular activities. “I sang in high school, but I was worried that continuing with the arts in college would distract from my other interests. Fortunately, Penn places no limits on who we can be and what we can discover. I’m so grateful I joined Dischord A Cappella. Making music with people I love has been one of the most rewarding and valuable experiences of my life.”
Mikey has served in numerous leadership roles with Dischord—from business manager to president—since his first year at Penn. Notable among his achievements is the implementation of a social budget to ensure all members can enjoy group events, free from financial worry. “Anyone can anonymously request complete funding, no questions asked. Dischord’s motto is ‘49% Music, 51% Family,’ and this system of financial aid allows us to make the group truly inclusive and welcoming for all.”
Among his many other extracurricular involvements, Mikey is a member of the Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity, where he has found a supportive community and home base on campus. “We are a historically Jewish fraternity, and while our members are very diverse, it still provides a safe space for me as a Jewish person and a place where I can connect with friends with whom I share life experiences and a common identity.” Additionally, Mikey is a tour guide with the Kite and Key Society, offering prospective students one of their first introductions to the Penn community. “Rather than only focusing on facts and the University’s history, our tours are very story-based. Kite and Key encourages us to personalize our tours in a way that allows students to envision themselves here.”
Mikey has been fortunate to engage with Penn’s alumni community through Dischord, helping to organize the group’s 25th Reunion Show and welcoming founding members back to campus. He also shares his gratitude for the enduring impact of alumni philanthropy: “Alumni donations create important spaces for students across Penn, including the Platt Performing Arts House, where we meet to practice music and rehearse. From contributing to physical spaces to funding niche programs and endowing professorships, alumni donors make an amazing education possible for all of us.”
Mikey’s experiences at Penn have provided a foundation of friendship and support that will carry him through the rest of his life, wherever his path may lead him. “I have found my closest friends and my most solid communities at Penn. I have been able to focus on my passions and discover new opportunities, and I know I’m prepared to succeed at whatever comes next for me.”
Favorite Penn Class
