Peers Helping Integrate New Students (PHINS)
Who are the PHINS?
PHINS (Peers Helping Integrate New Students) are New Student Orientation leaders who volunteer to assist incoming First-Year, Transfer, First-Generation and/or Limited-Income (FGLI), International, Exchange, and Second-Year Penn undergraduate students with their academic, cultural, emotional, and social adjustment to life at Penn. This interaction occurs before, during, and beyond New Student Orientation (NSO).
Consider Joining the PHINS Team during NSO 2025?
Members of PHINS are introduced to and work closely with faculty, staff, administrators, and most importantly, peers. The PHINS experience allows students to learn more about themselves and Penn along with the opportunity to make many lasting friendships with both new students and other PHINS.
What are the benefits of being on the PHINS Team?
- Opportunity to connect and engage with your fellow Penn students!
- Free early move-in to College Houses.
- Free PHINS/Penn merch.
- Free meals during NSO.
- Para-professional experience supporting a crucial University program.
- Leadership opportunities & a great resume builder.
- Participate in fun NSO events including “An Evening at the Philadelphia Museum of Art” event!
What are the expectations of the PHINS?
- Saturday, August 17: Move into College Houses after 2pm.
- Sunday, August 18: Attend Mandatory PHINS Training on campus.
- Monday, August 19 – Wednesday, August 21: Be available to help with move-in efforts and support specific population programming.
- Friday, August 23: All PHINS must be available on PHINS Phriday, August 23.
- Wednesday, August 21 – Monday, August 26: Help with New Student Orientation (NSO).
- Sunday, August 25 – Friday, August, 30: Offer optional help with Second-Year Orientation (SYO).
What is the eligibility of the applicants?
- Current Penn undergraduate students (Class of 2025, Class of 2026, and Class of 2027) in good standing with the University.
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Take initiative in supporting and welcoming new students and families to Penn!
- Ability to adapt to complex schedule of events.
- Willingness to lead a group of new Quakers, including campus and Philadelphia tours!
PHINS PHRIDAY
As a new Penn student, you may join the PHINS to explore the neighborhood of West Philadelphia at PHINS Orientation Group Activities during NSO. Meet your orientation leaders and classmates and enjoy a walking tour of West Philadelphia. Below is the tour guide map for the past PHINS PHRIDAY during NSO 2024.
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