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OK, so every student doesn't literally major in history, but when studying at a college in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, one can't help but soak up the area's history lessons and tradition of American independence. After all, when standing in Independence Hall, site of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, or gazing upon the Liberty Bell, history textbooks come alive.

If you choose a Philadelphia university, you'll also be in close proximity to Valley Forge National Historical Park, and the National Constitution Center, which is a museum dedicated to the U.S. Constitution.

Speaking of history, one of the most famous and beloved Americans, Benjamin Franklin, actually established the University of Pennsylvania. Today, Philadelphia has over 80 college campuses, making the city a hotspot for higher ed, attracting students from all over the world. In fact, there are over 40,000 students from the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and The University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, comprising what is known as "University City." When you consider what the college town has to offer, it's not wonder.

As a bustling art center, home to famous museums and galleries like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the cultural opportunities in Philly are vast. Dozens of famous French impressionist paintings are on display at The Barnes Foundation. And, Philly's presence in cinematic history goes beyond the famous scenes in "Rocky" -- the city of brotherly love also saw the invention of the projector and was home to the first movie studio. Attending a Philadelphia university also allows students to experience the Avenue of the Arts, showcasing top opera and orchestral performances.

Outdoor enthusiasts can literally get lost in Fairmount Park, the nation's largest city park, which is five times the size of New York City's Central Park. Whether you enjoy hiking, boating, or rollerblading,  

Philadelphia college

  life will help you avoid the "freshman 15."

Of course, there's a reason why you have to get physical when considering that those at Philadelphia universities have easy access to the city's famous cheesesteaks. Beyond these decadent sandwiches, however, you'll find a melting pot of cultures in Philly, from its own Chinatown to its Italian marketplace and Islamic community. There's also the Reading Terminal Market, which is the country's oldest operating farmers' market. If it's a day away from the books that you're seeking, South Street is among the top Philly stops offering hip and dynamic shopping, eating, and nightlife options.



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Dawn Papandrea is the Managing Editor of The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.

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