Student Voices

What would you do with an online Ivy League education at your fingertips? Graduates of the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences degree and working adults who completed Penn LPS Online certificates and courses share their experiences of the virtual classroom―and their plans for putting their education to work.

You can filter the stories by credential (BAAS degree or certificate) or by individual certificates.

Erica Adhikary

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ’25; Concentration in Organizational Studies

As mother of two, Erica wasn’t sure there was a path for her to finish college. Graduating with a 4.0 and getting accepted to law school were beyond her wildest dreams.

Read Erica’s story >

Sandeep Aggarwal

Certificate in Data Analytics, University of Pennsylvania ’24

Dr. Sandeep Aggarwal found that data analytics offered opportunities for more creative, flexible, and knowledgeable approaches to medical research.

Read Sandeep’s story »

Liam Drennan Blakeway

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ’26—expected; Concentration in Creative Studies

After hitting the reset on his life, Liam embraced the chance to pursue his college education, first at community college and now with the BAAS

Read Liam’s story >

Shane Coolbaugh

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ’24; Concentration in Leadership and Communication

See how the BAAS program helped Shane Coolbaugh transition from a two-year institution to complete his bachelor’s and sharpen his skills as a leader and communications professional.

Read Shane’s story >

Kelly Gilrain

Certificate in Applied Positive Psychology, University of Pennsylvania ’24

As chief psychologist at a teaching and research hospital, Dr. Kelly Gilrain employs positive psychology concepts and interventions to support patient care.

Read Kelly’s story >

Cheryl O’Donnell-Flynn

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ‘23; Concentration in Individualized Studies

While completing her degree, Cheryl was surprised to discover she had a passion for teaching. Her studies helped bring a refined sense of empathy and understanding into new role at Penn Dental.

Watch Cheryl’s story >

Guillermo A. Romero

Upskill Certificate, University of Pennsylvania ’24

Guillermo A. Romero (Upskill Certificate ’24) wanted to take courses and build his resume before committing to a degree. The Upskill Certificate offered a short-term, highly personalized solution.

Read Guillermo’s story >

Fernanda Oliveira

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ’24; Concentration in Data Analytics and Psychological Sciences

After a career in ballet, Fernanda’s next step is law school. Learn how part-time study with the BAAS program helped her pivot.

Read Fernanda’s story >

Shaneeta Bagley

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ‘24; Concentration in Physical and Life Sciences

Shaneeta earned her associate degree and enrolled in the BAAS to earn the credentials to move into a leadership role. Her biggest surprise was realizing where her leadership and resilience skills could take her.

Watch Shaneeta’s story >

Rafael Álvarez Febo

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ’24; Concentration in Literature, Culture, and Tradition

Rafael Álvarez Febo had an established career in public service when he decided to finish his bachelor’s degree. At Penn, he gained confidence in his writing skills and made even deeper connections to his community.

Read Rafael’s story >

Andy Lan

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ‘23; Concentration in Leadership and Communication

The ability to connect with students, appreciate their differences, and collaborate toward a common goal helped Andy gain an appreciation for the expansive Penn network.

Watch Andy’s story >

Jane Horwitz

Certificate in Climate Change, University of Pennsylvania ‘23

Jane developed skills to become a strong environmental advocate and brought new learnings to improve her synagogue's outdoor campus development.

Watch Jane’s story >

Katie Shelburn

Certificate in Professional Writing, University of Pennsylvania ’23

Professional writing coursework and networking with instructors and other students helped Katie take the leap into becoming a full-time freelance writer.

Watch Katie’s story >

Kristen Egan

Certificate in Professional Writing, University of Pennsylvania ’23

Development and fundraising professional Kristen chose the Professional Writing Certificate to strengthen her storytelling and catapult her career.

Read Kristen's story >

Ernesto E.

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ‘24; Concentration in Organizational Studies

When Ernesto enrolled to take few writing classes, he didn’t expect the journey to lead to a bachelor’s degree. His experience demonstrated the importance of an education to his young kids and gave him the confidence to expand his studies and career.

Watch Ernesto’s story >

Audrey Cavanah

Certificate in Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania ’24

Asynchronous, online course delivery allowed Audrey Cavanah to enhance their science education and plot a career path while continuing to work full time as a research specialist in the Department of Neurology.

Read Audrey’s story >

Joe Barreto

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ’23; Concentration in Physical and Life Sciences

Joe Barreto (BAAS ’23, Dean’s Scholar) always dreamed of a career in science. Penn’s flexible online program allowed him to pursue his academic and professional goals while being a full-time caregiver at home.

Read Joe’s story >

Kimberly Chambers

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ’24; Concentration in Creative Studies

Once her three children were grown, Kim Chambers (BAAS ’24) wanted a stellar college education for herself. At Penn, she discovered a new passion and purpose in creative writing.

Read Kimberly’s story >

Lauren M. Spann

Certificate in Creative Writing, University of Pennsylvania ’23

Creative writing courses at Penn brought Lauren back to an old interest and into a community of writers where she continues to improve her practice.

Read Lauren’s story >

Charles Hernandez

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ’22; Concentration in Data Analytics and Social Sciences

From high school dropout to elite solider to Ivy League graduate and beyond, BAAS alum Charles Hernandez thrives.

Read Charles’ story >

Micah Huang

Certificate in Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania ’23

Micah Huang wanted to understand how music affects body and mind. The Certificate in Neuroscience transformed their creative practice—and led them to a PhD.

Read Micah’s story >

Jesse Clasen

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania '22; Concentration in Individualized Studies

At Penn, Jesse Clasen (BAAS ’22) discovered the career potential of her passion for communication. As a freelance marketing specialist, she reflects on her writing courses for inspiration.

Read Jesse’s story >

Emrys Stromberg

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania '23; Concentration in Physical and Life Sciences

When practicing ethnobotanist Emrys Stromberg (BAAS ’23) wanted to take his career to the next level, the Penn BAAS offered room to grow. Now he’s heading to graduate school with a new passion for plant science and climate change.

Read Emrys’ story >

Kelley Roark, RMA

Certificate in Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania '23

Kelley Roark has been passionate about neuroscience from a young age. The Certificate in Neuroscience gave her the detailed knowledge she sought, and positioned her for future opportunities researching the science of epilepsy.

Read Kelley’s story >

Gabrielle Solair

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania '23; Concentration in Individualized Studies

As a musician, Gabrielle Solair knows how to connect with an audience. At Penn, she found new ways to use her voice—and a supportive community to challenge and inspire her.

Read Gabrielle’s story >

Elizabeth Seiffert

Certificate in Climate Change, University of Pennsylvania '22

After New Jersey introduced new climate change learning standards for public schools, social studies teacher Liz Seiffert returned to school to get classroom-ready with the Penn LPS Online Certificate in Climate Change.

Read Liz’s story >

Christine Muller, PhD

Advanced Certificate in Creative Writing, University of Pennsylvania '22

When Christine Muller received an employee email about the Penn LPS Online Certificate in Creative Writing, she saw the opportunity to chase down a dream.

Read Christine’s story >

Lindsay Jorgensen

Advanced Certificate in Creative Writing, University of Pennsylvania '22

When professional dancer and instructor Lindsay Jorgensen needed a new creative outlet, the Penn LPS Online Certificate in Creative Writing offered a means of practice to hone her storytelling skills.

Read Lindsay’s story >

Bree Smith

Certificate in Creative Writing, University of Pennsylvania '22; Certificate in Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania '21

Bree Smith enrolled in online courses to try out a new subject without stepping away from her professional commitments. She finished with two certificates and a rekindled love of creative writing.

Read Bree’s story >

Vishal Sibal

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania '24—expected; Concentration in Physical and Life Sciences

An experienced entrepreneur who has long dreamed of continuing his education, Vishal Sibal (BAAS '24—expected) studies effective leadership and communication in a global classroom.

Read Vishal’s story >

Kirsten Calloway

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ‘21; Concentration: Individualized Studies

Through grit and determination, Kirsten Calloway earned her BAAS, unlocked her life’s purpose to help others thrive, and kept an important promise.

Read Kirsten’s story >

Nile Miller

Certificate in Data Analytics, University of Pennsylvania '22

The programming and data visualization experience Nile gained during the Certificate in Data Analytics inspired him to pivot to a career in tech: using data for social good.

Read Nile’s story >

Michelle Miller

Certificate in Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania ‘22

Clinical scientist Michelle Miller wanted to pursue academics to expand her familiarity with neuroscience and pharmacology. Online courses made that possible.

Read Michelle’s story >

Cynthia S. Gonzalez

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ‘23; Concentration in Physical and Life Sciences

Dental hygienist Cynthia Gonzalez was undecided about her professional path when she enrolled in the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences program, but now sees a bright future of possibilities as a global citizen.

Read Cynthia’s story >

Michele Spilberg Hart

Certificate in Organizational Anthropology, University of Pennsylvania ‘22

Learn why successful marketing director Michele Hart returned to school to earn the Penn LPS Online Certificate in Organizational Anthropology—and understand the workplace insights it gave her.

Read Michele’s story >

Halle Sherman

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania '22; Concentration in Physical and Life Sciences

As a professional ballerina, an educator, and now a graduate with a bachelor’s degree in science, Halle Sherman is a virtuoso at balancing her passions and professions.

Read Halle’s story >

Chelar Vale

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ‘22; Concentration in Creative Studies

Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Creative Studies allowed Chelar Vale (BAAS `22) to polish her communication skills, cultivate her artistic side—and fulfill her dream of a college experience.

Read Chelar’s story >

Rebecca McDow

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ‘21; Concentration in Literature, Culture, and Tradition

First-generation college graduate Rebecca McDow talks about the support she found in the BAAS program and shares her plans for a graduate degree.

Read Rebecca’s story >

Gahl Shottan

Certificate in Creative Writing, University of Pennsylvania ‘21

A devoted science fiction reader and writer, Gahl Shottan found opportunities to challenge herself, hone her craft, and connect to other writers in the certificate program.

Read Gahl’s story >

Felicia Grable

Certificate in Creative Writing, University of Pennsylvania ‘20

Felicia Grable looked forward to reacquainting herself with creative arts while earning an Ivy League credential—and ignited an ongoing passion for discovery.

Read Felicia’s story >

Tamaira Rhodes

Advanced Certificate in Creative Writing, University of Pennsylvania ‘21

Tamaira Rhodes wanted to encourage her staff to make the most of tuition benefits—and talked herself into enrolling. Now she’s preparing to publish and pursue a master’s degree in writing.

Read Tamaira’s story >

Dana Cheaib

Certificate in Creative Writing, University of Pennsylvania ‘20

For Dana, the Certificate in Creative Writing became a launch pad for a Master of Fine Arts in poetry, supplying her with portfolio pieces, instructor advice, and confidence in her work.

Read Dana’s story >

Erin Herbst Gomolinski

Advanced Certificate in Creative Writing, University of Pennsylvania ‘21

Erin Gomolinski wanted to make space for creative expression outside of her busy professional life; she also wanted a challenge. She found a wide-ranging, supportive community.

Read Erin’s story >

Eleanor Burke

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania '24—expected

As a program coordinator, a community leader, and an author, Eleanor is an experienced communicator; now she is working toward the BAAS degree to prove it.

Read Eleanor’s story >

Harsha Ravindran

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ‘26—expected

Harsha Ravindran is a young entrepreneur and a youth movement leader. Her next passion project: a bachelor’s degree that can balance her career.

Read Harsha’s story >

Erwin Benedict Valencia

Certificate in Applied Positive Psychology, University of Pennsylvania ‘21

Taking classes in the Applied Positive Psychology certificate helped Erwin Benedict Valencia find clarity in his mission at the intersection of physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

Read Erwin’s story >

Joslyn Banks

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania ‘20; Concentration in Individualized Studies

Joslyn Banks (BAAS '20) retired, moved to a new town, and graduated from Penn—in that order—and she’s already looking forward to her next challenge.

Read Joslyn’s story >

Daniela Mandracchia

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania '20; Concentration in Individualized Studies

Completing a bachelor’s degree while working full time helped position Daniela Mandracchia (BAAS '20) for new career pathways and personal enrichment.

Read Daniela’s story >

Robert Marshall

Certificate in Applied Positive Psychology, University of Pennsylvania ‘19

For Robert Marshall, the APOP certificate opened the door to explore mindfulness and resilience strategies for himself and other military veterans.

Read Robert’s story >

Mary Koenke

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania '20; Concentration in Physical and Life Sciences

Mary Koenke (BAAS '20) returned to Penn after more than a decade and synthesized many years of educational, professional, and personal growth on her journey to the degree.

Read Mary’s story >

Susan Hassett

Certificate in Data Analytics, University of Pennsylvania ‘20

Susan Hassett has worked with data throughout her career in higher education—and loves it. Her courses in data analytics have given her new tools and the confidence to continue learning independently.

Read Susan’s story >

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