If you can’t find the answer to your question on this page, please feel free to email Dr. Utsav Schurmans, Director of Research and Scholars Programs (schurman@wharton.upenn.edu).
Are you at a disadvantage if you have never had another research experience?
No. It is expected that many applicants will be looking to engage in their first research project.
Is it possible to get independent-study credit?
It is against University policy for you to get credit for a program for which you will be receiving an award.
How much of the summer am I expected to devote to conducting my research?
While you are expected to work the equivalent of at least 20 hours per week for 8-12 weeks, there is flexibility on the timing and duration of your research. You need to come to an agreement about your schedule with the faculty mentor at the university or think tank where your research takes place.
Does my WRAP research work have to be related to business?
Yes, broadly. Meaning, examining the crystallographic structure of ceramics really does not fit in Wharton but any research involving people or impacting people likely will.
Is it okay for my WRAP project to be on-going, i.e., can future research be based on the summer project?
Yes – for example, it may be possible for you to continue your research after returning to Penn in an independent study under the guidance of a Wharton faculty mentor.
Can you participate in WRAP as well as University Scholars or another summer research program?
You cannot be paid twice for the same work. You are expected to work approximately 20 hours per week over 8-12 weeks on your WRAP project. You may use the rest of your time for another project, job, class, or other activities.
How can I find a foreign institution where I can work as a research assistant?
Students typically identify an institution through conversation with their faculty advisor and independent research/googling.
Are faculty members aware of the program?
Faculty members have been informed of the program via email, but you may encounter someone who is unaware of the program. You may refer them to Dr. Schurmans if they have any questions.
Should we contact potential faculty advisors directly?
Yes, applicants are expected to initiate contact with possible Wharton faculty advisors. Before approaching a potential advisor, narrow down your research interests and identify faculty who specialize in that area of research. Your Wharton faculty advisor can help you further refine your proposal as well as help make a connection on your behalf with an appropriate university or think tank abroad. Applicants should not reach out to any foreign institutions before application decisions are made. After acceptance into the program, participants will work with their Wharton faculty advisors to make connections abroad.
Can I work with more than one faculty advisor?
Yes, each advisor must sign an advisor approval form and must approve your final written report. You can also have informal advisors who help you but are not formally recognized in your paper as faculty mentors. You are expected to thank any informal advisors in the acknowledgements section of your paper.
Can I work with faculty advisors in multiple schools?
Yes.
Can I work with a faculty advisor in a different Penn school?
Yes, you can have all kinds of advisors not from Wharton. They do need to be Penn employees and have research skills that make them good potential mentors. That said, any advisor not in Wharton could negatively impact the chances of your proposal, especially if it means your research really is not a good match for Wharton. Do note, though, that plenty of faculty and other researchers outside of Wharton do work that connects very closely to Wharton.
Will I have to pay taxes on my WRAP stipend?
Monetary awards constitute taxable income. If you are a U.S. citizen, taxes will not be withheld from your award, but you will receive a 1099 tax form from the University of Pennsylvania at the end of the year for tax reporting purposes. If you are an international student, the University will withhold 30% of your award amount for tax purposes, barring any tax treaties that may exist with your home country. International students can find information about Penn’s tax policies at the Office of the Comptroller.
When are acceptances released for the program?
Typically a week or two after the application deadline