Office of New Student Orientation & Academic Initiatives

NSO

Daily Digest

Saturday, August 22, 2026

Hello Class of 2030!

Welcome to the fourth day of New Student Orientation (NSO)! Below you'll find more information about today's events including NSO Preceptorials, PennTracks: Philadelphia Walking Tours, and An Evening at the National Constitution Center.

If you have any questions or would like to know more information about any of the NSO events, look for our well-trained volunteers, the Peers Helping Integrate New Students (PHINS), all around campus in light blue and navy blue polo shirts.

Today's Calendar

NSO Preceptorials

View the Full List of NSO Preceptorials | 10am-2pm

Preceptorials are not-for-credit educational sessions designed to highlight the University’s intellectual richness, foster a sense of belonging within our shared community, and help students shape their Penn experience.

These sessions focus on the following key areas: Academic Life, America 250, Civic Engagement, Community Building, Cultural Awareness, and Wellness.

PennTracks: Philadelphia Walking Tours

Meet on College Green | 2pm-5pm

Sign up for a tour and join your fellow classmates for free guided tours throughout Philly and discover more about your new home.

View the PennTrack Walking Tours' Maps.

An Evening at the National Constitution Center

National Constitution Center | 6:30pm-9pm

Bus Pick-up Locations (Buses begin to depart campus at 6:15pm):

Between 37th St and 38th St on Spruce St (Upper Quad Gate)
Between 33rd St and 34th St on Walnut St (Hill College House)

Enjoy a delicious dinner, sweet treats, dancing, and immersive experiences as we honor 250 years of American history. Explore interactive exhibits, enjoy live performances, meet historical reenactors, and discover the people, principles, and moments that have shaped the United States.

Casual red, white, and blue attire is recommended for this event. Wristbands and Penn IDs are required for entry.

Houston + ARCH | Late Night Open House

Houston Hall and the ARCH Building | 9pm-11pm

New to Penn? We’ve got you covered. This is your opportunity to discover people, places, and programs that work for you. Explore Houston Hall and the ARCH building, meet representatives from campus and student organizations, and learn about resources that support you academically, socially, and professionally including many beyond the traditional 9-to-5 schedule. Come ask questions, enjoy food, connect with students, and discover everything from tutoring and wellness services to recreation, safety resources, leadership opportunities, and cultural communities.

NSO Events Calendar PDF

Events Calendar Webpage

View Your Mandatory NSO Schedule Here

Penn Disability Services

If you would like to request any specific accommodations including fully accessible transportation to any NSO event, please contact Penn’s Disability Services.

PHONE: 215-573-9235
TTY: 215-746-6320
Email: vpul-sdsmail@pobox.upenn.edu

Dining Café Hours For
Saturday, August 22

Dining café hours throughout the week of NSO can be viewed on the Penn Dining website. The options for today are listed below.

Brunch: 10am-2pm

Hill College House and 1920 Commons

Dinner: 5pm-8pm

Hill College House and 1920 Commons

Visit Penn Dining Website

Looking Ahead: Penn Reading Project

The Penn Reading Project (PRP) was conceived in 1990 as a shared experience that introduces students to Penn’s vigorous intellectual life. Since then, it has been a significant part of the New Student Orientation experience.

This year, with the theme of America250 all around us, rather than a single book, we’ve put together a selection of readings through our Canvas platform that explores both the history of our nation, and our current understanding of democracy in action.

The on-campus portion of the PRP is in two parts. On Saturday evening, a celebratory visit to the National Constitution Center is an immersive exploration of these topics. The PRP concludes on Sunday with a mandatory session in Zellerbach Auditorium. Penn faculty and students will discuss the sometimes-contentious formation of American history, the ongoing questions about democracy today, and the evolution of universities in America.

Sunday, August 23 - Penn Reading Project Panel Session Times