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To answer the question "why do you want to come here", Ive done my fair share of research regarding Penn's more unique theory of study, especially the focus on interdisciplinary research, and I've pretty much decided that it's the school I want to go to, since the campus life and the education all match my attractions perfectly.

From the perspective of a graduate, is there any unique class / event / program you participated in that greatly added to your experience at UPenn? I just want some more thorough information, especially something that is more up-close than a campus tour or information on the internet

There are plenty of courses I could recommend but most are in Wharton. The spanish department is great though (and so are most languages). As to things that enhanced my experience, I was in the huntsman program which was very unique. Probably not for you. Activities wise penn has most everything. LGBT life (meaning for gay men) is great. What do you like? I'd need more specifics.

I am taking Spanish right now, though I probably wont be after high school unless it's mandatory since I'll be finishing it after my Senior year. As for extracurriculars, I do debate and play violin. I volunteer a lot at hospitals and rescue squads. I am eager to be able to continue doing all of those things throughout college. I dont really do sports, but I enjoy exercising and working out on my own time

And yeah I heard LGBT life is great, especially since Philly in general is a pretty forward looking city. Aside from academically / LGBT though, how was social life there? Like is it one of those very school-spirited schools or is it just so-so in that end because I know most of the Ivys aren't too crazy when it comes to school spirit

There is a language requirement but if you're taking ap, for example, you'd be past it already. You might want to consider joining MERT to fulfill your hospital volunteering type desire. They're a student response team with EMT certification. Penn debate is obviously intense (all collegiate debate is) but you could do penn for youth debate where you would coach philly students. Some of my friends did/do that and they all like it. Violin, obviously there are orchestras, etc, as well as shows looking for pit crew.

General school spirit comes in bursts. Spring Fling and Hey Day are huge, for example, but no one really goes to sports games.

Awesome, Ive been doing them already in school- it'd be nice to continue.Thanks for all the info. I guess I just have to cross my fingers and write some kick-ass essays....