Learning how to work in teams starts in the required Management 100 course where groups of 10 students from all different backgrounds and interests work on a community service or consulting project. The MGMT 100 (Management 100: Leadership and Communication in Groups) course is one of the most memorable courses students will take and it provides an interesting immersion into life as a Wharton college student.
"When we were in high school, most of us were used to being the leader – the person who everyone else looked to. But when we came to Penn, there were thousands of other leaders on this campus and learning to work together is one of the most important things,” says senior Trang To.
As a freshman, To’s team organized an event at a local jazz club to create awareness for World Aids Day. Not only did they raise enough money to hold an awesome event -- they also raised an extra $2,000 for the client.
“The best part of the project was seeing the outcome of our event. And when we were done, we had made friendships that lasted all four years at Penn and probably will last long afterward,” she says.
The course made such an impact on her, To decided to apply to be a TA (Teaching Advisor). As a TA she attends lectures, facilitates discussions and holds recitations. As a TA, she also serves as a peer advisor, talking with freshman about all sorts of issues ranging from what clubs to join to registering for classes.
“Freshmen come into MGMT 100 as high school students and leave the course as college students prepared for the next four years. To see that transformation is rewarding and why I’ve continued to be a TA for three years,” says To.
She recalls one freshman who was extremely nervous about speaking in front of the class. To coached the student who ended up giving an excellent presentation. “That student later told me they felt so much more comfortable in other courses and clubs -- and that feeling more comfortable propelled them to apply for higher positions in other clubs.”
To points out that it’s rare to have a chance to coach others and facilitate conversations at such a young age. “Each semester, I’m learning about myself and my own style as a coach while still making an impact on other students. I don’t think I’d have this type of opportunity anywhere else.”
