How do unemployed partners spend their time in Philadelphia?
We know that it can be difficult for partners coming from outside the U.S. to obtain work visas. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of things you can do to stay busy!
Volunteering
Philadelphia, like every other large city, has plenty of need for community service volunteers. Many partners have found great reward in contributing their time, intelligence and energy through this avenue. From soup kitchens to pet shelters to the world-class Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, we can help you find an organization that fits your skills and interests. We invite you to download this volunteer tip sheet for great healthcare, social service and arts organizations throughout Philadelphia. For more information about volunteer opportunities, please email our Volunteer Co-Chairs Carrie Blanton and Shannon Foley.
Higher Education
Some partners choose to further their education along with their student. Philadelphia offers a large number of higher education institutions—in fact, Philadelphia’s student population rivals Boston’s, having over 80 colleges and universities with a combined matriculating population of 250,000 students! We’ve even seen partners who end up attending Wharton for their own MBA during their student’s second year, or after their student graduates.
Pursuing a Passion
This is a wonderful time to focus on a passion you may not have had time to focus on before. We’ve seen partners design and sell their own jewelry or handbags, write screenplays and books and start their own architecture and interior design firm, to name just a few. There are also countless cooking classes, yoga and dance centers, cultural museums and art galleries in the city. If you have a creative passion, we encourage you to take the time to enjoy it!
Full-Time Parenting
We all know being a parent is a full-time job, and many partners are stay-at-home moms and dads. Many of these partners actively participate in the Wharton Kids Club, which offers a great network for both parents and children.