As you transition from your second year to graduation, focus on solidifying your academic achievements, finalizing your career plans, and preparing for the next chapter beyond Wharton. This hub brings together key resources, action steps, and connections to help you navigate your final months with clarity and confidence.
Mindset | Actions | Resources | Key Advice | Contacts
Mindset
Academics
- What do you still want to accomplish before graduating?
- Are you confident you are on track to finish all requirements?
- What do you want to carry forward from your time at Wharton?
- Do you know what changes when your Penn affiliation ends?
Student Life
- Who do you want to make sure you’ve connected with before you leave?
- How do you want to stay part of the Wharton community — mentoring, giving back, staying close to your club?
- What does being a Wharton alumnus mean for how you show up professionally?
Career
- How will I build my network?
- What skills do I need next?
- How will I use advising strategically?
- How can I build upon my current connections to sustain long-term relationships?
Actions
Academics
- Review your degree audit
- Submit your graduation application
- Resolve any outstanding incomplete grades
Student Life
- Document your club knowledge throughout the year and share it with incoming leadership
- After winter break, begin coordinating your leadership transition with your OSL Associate Director. Don’t wait until spring.
- Activate your Wharton alumni profile before graduation, not after.
- Have the conversations and make the connections you’ve been putting off — it’s harder once you leave.
- Schedule an appointment with OSL— we’re here if you need direction on what to do next.
Career
- Clarify you career goals before graduation
- Use Career Advising through July
- Plan for ongoing career development and networking
Resources
Academics
- Graduation Application in Path@Penn
- Degree Audit in Path@Penn
- Wharton MBA Academic Calendar
- MBA Academic Affairs Team Page
Student Life
- OSL Advising Appointments – Virtual and In-Person
- Student Life Advising Resources
- OSL Club Event Planning Guide
Career
- MBACM Advising
Key Advice
Academics
- Don’t Wait to Apply for Graduation: Graduation application deadlines are published each semester by MBA Academic Affairs. Check the academic calendar for the current deadline. Missing it can delay your official degree conferral date.
Student Life
- Institutional Knowledge: Think back to when you took over a leadership role at Wharton, what do you wish you knew? Had access to? Help the next generation of leaders by leaving a legacy of documentation and support behind.
- Don’t Overextend Yourself: Avoid the lure of cramming too much into too little time. Instead priorize events and opportunities that you enjoy and that having meaning and value to you. Sometimes saying no means you are saying yes to being more fully present and engaged.
Career
- First but not the Last: The job search you conduct to secure your first full-time role post-Wharton will not be the last job search you conduct. Utilize the skills you developed at Wharton to conduct successful job searches in the future
- You are Surrounded by Your Network: Be sure to connect with other Second Years and learn about where they are headed post-Wharton. Headed to the same city? Keep in touch and find time to meet up.
- Connect with Alumni: Leverage the Wharton alumni network to learn about the company and role you may be headed into. Find mentors and advocates that will support your success.
Contacts
Academics
- Academic Advising
- Office of the University Registrar
- Student Registration & Financial Services
- MBA Academic Affairs/MBA Program Office Email
Student Life
- Your Club Advisor
- OSL Associate Director of Governance Email (WGA, Cluster Boards, Leadership Opportunities)
- OSL Associate Director of Events Email (Club Events and Conferences)
- OSL Senior Associate Director Email (WGA finance escalation, purchase orders, and internal vs. external funding questions)
Career
- MBACM Advisors
- Alumni Career Experts
- Wellness Coach