Student Life & Resources
We offer students endless opportunity to make connections, explore interests, and access the resources they need to thrive.
Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a diverse and dynamic city ripe with opportunity for students pursuing careers in social work and social policy.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Now and throughout our history, the School of Social Policy & Practice has been dedicated to the principles of anti-racism, anti-oppression, intersectionality, inclusion, diversity, and social justice.
Career & Professional Development
Your first stop for information and tools around every aspect of the career development process, from networking and mentoring to applying for jobs and accepting offers.
SP2 Mentor Collective
The SP2 Mentor Collective creates one-on-one connections between students and SP2 alumni mentors.
Health & Wellness
At SP2, we are committed to ensuring the physical, mental, and social well-being of every student.
Academic and Writing Support
Our tutors and staff support students in academic writing and editing, and we provide a range of services for students with disabilities.
Libraries
SP2 offers a range of different library resources, and students have access to Penn’s entire library network.
Student Organizations
Learn more about opportunities to engage with SP2’s student government, clubs, and other extracurricular organizations and activities.
Information technology
Find information about PennKey, email, Microsoft Office 365, Zoom, and other platforms used by SP2 students.
On-campus Housing
Penn Residential Services provides information and guidelines for graduate students interested in taking advantage of the University’s on-campus housing.
Off-campus Housing
Discover best practices, guidelines, and tools for researching and applying for off-campus housing in and around Philadelphia.
International Students
Our international students are from countries worldwide and each student brings their unique lived experiences with them.
Additional Resources
Tools, information, and updates on a range of other important topics
Emergency funds for students
Howard Arnold Sustainability Fund
This emergency fund helps students facing unexpected, temporary financial hardship. Funds may be used for financial emergencies related to housing, food, medication, transportation to school/internship, books, practicum placement or internship-related incidentals. This one-time award typically does not exceed $500 and is not intended for tuition unless the student is on a registration hold.
Important: if a student is currently aided up to budget (the total cost of attendance: tuition, fees, and living expenses) the emergency fund award will reduce a portion of aid currently provided and will not be received in the form of a refund. If this is the case, students will need to complete a budget increase request form and receive an approval, in order to receive an actual refund. In addition, if there is a balance owed on a student’s Penn bursar account, the emergency funds may be delayed or absorbed by the balance due on the account.
Association of Black Social Workers Student Emergency Fund
The ABSW Fund provides emergency financial support to student requiring assistance with emergency expenses due to accident, illness, death in a family, need for immediate short-term housing, etc. Consideration will be given to Black applicants, so long as such consideration is necessary and appropriate in keeping with the School’s goal of obtaining educational benefits by promoting student body diversity. Grants are typically capped at $500; however, higher awards are considered in extreme situation. The funds are generally disbursed as soon as possible after an award determination has been made, typically within three to five business days. Students should exhaust all financial aid options before applying for emergency funds.
Important: If a student is currently aided up to budget (the total cost of attendance: tuition, fees, and living expenses) the emergency fund award will reduce a portion of aid currently provided and will not be received in the form of a refund. If this is the case, students will need to complete a budget increase request form and receive an approval, in order to receive an actual refund. In addition, if there is a balance owed on a student’s Penn bursar account, the emergency funds may be delayed or absorbed by the balance due on the account.
Additional Financial Resources
SP2 students facing financial hardship can also access these resources:
- Graduate & Professional Student Emergency Fund
- Penn Library Computer Loan
- SP2 IT Department
- Furniture
If you are experiencing an immediate financial emergency that is impacting your housing or health, please contact Student Intervention Services for immediate support.
Contact Us
Andrea Porter, MLA
Registrar and Director of Student Information and Records
Caster Building Room 202
215 898 5548
Jennifer J. Clinkscales, DSW, LCSW
Associate Dean of Student Affairs
215 746 5895
Caster Building Room 110