Starting his Penn experience during a global pandemic is something Sam never could have anticipated. With the support of a powerful University community, he was still able to enjoy a fulfilling first year—even while being an ocean away from his home in London. As he prepares to graduate this spring, Sam reflects on the richness of his educational journey: “Penn has helped shape who I am and given me countless opportunities. It will forever remain an important part of my life and identity.”
As a student at the Wharton School majoring in Finance as well as Operations, Information, and Decisions, Sam’s involvement extends well beyond his academic coursework. He currently sits on the Wharton Dean’s Undergraduate Advisory Board, leads as a Co-Chair of Seniors for The Penn Fund, and serves as a member of Wharton Europe, the Penn Film Society, and multiple senior societies. As a teaching assistant for WH1010, the first class in the Wharton Leadership Journey, Sam has mentored first-year students and promoted the new Environmental, Social, and Governance Factors for Business Concentration. “There is a strong culture of community support at the University,” Sam says, “and I am excited to give back to the community that has given me so much.”
Sam’s undergraduate journey has reinforced his belief in the vital importance of philanthropy. He has witnessed firsthand the power of alumni generosity and its pivotal role in funding scholarships, supporting research opportunities, and ensuring access to state-of-the-art facilities and technology. For Sam, the impact of Penn Fund donors serves as a source of great inspiration, as well as a reminder of his own potential to effect positive change: “Their commitment to giving back has inspired me to become an active member of our community. Alumni philanthropy has not only enriched my academic experience; it has also instilled a sense of responsibility to carry forward this tradition of giving to benefit future generations of Penn students.”