Preparing for the Penn Scholars Research Residency

A group of young adults, part of Penn Research Residencies, poses together on a wooden dock near a marsh at sunset, smiling at the camera during their research preparation.

Welcome to the Penn Scholars Research Residency!

The Penn Center staff and the Culture and Community at Penn Center grant team have been abuzz with preparations for your arrival to the Penn Scholars Research Residency. We welcome you, as the 2026 class of Penn Center Summer Scholars, from South Carolina State University; Claflin University; Tuskegee University; Agnes Scott College; Georgia Institute of Technology; and the University of Georgia! We are very excited to host all of you during this educational week.

Please watch the video and review the checklist below, and sign and return this statement confirming that you have done so by 5pm Thursday, May 14, 2026.

Here are the documents you are required to sign and return:

What should you remember to bring as you pack for the residency?

Please come prepared with everything you might need for the week. There are no stores within walking distance of the campus.

Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes or sneakers that you don’t mind getting wet or muddy.
A hat to wear to protect you from the sun and/or sunscreen.
Comfortable, lightweight, casual summer clothing; and we recommend having long pants or capris on hand to protect your extremities from insect bites. We recommend a light windbreaker or jacket as nights can get cool.
Spray or lotion or insect repellent bracelets to protect your skin from insect bites, such as Skin So Soft, DEET or OFF!
Shower shoes or flip-flops for the showers and use in the residence buildings.
Masks for indoor use in Penn Center’s facilities throughout the residency, should health conditions require it: KN95 masks and travel-size hand sanitizer will be provided in your welcome packets. University System of Georgia students and faculty, please note that you are required to adhere to the standing policies of external partners and institutions such as Penn Center, even if they do not correspond to those policies of your own institution within the system. Here is the University of Georgia’s language (https://el.uga.edu/policies/covid-vaccinations/).
Your own toiletries: toothpaste, toothbrush, dental floss, soap, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner, anti-perspirant. We provide bed linens, towels, and washcloths, but if you prefer your own towels and washcloths you are welcome to bring them. There are extra bed linens, blankets, towels, and washcloths available in each residence building. You are responsible for emptying trash in kitchens and private rooms and for swapping out linens, towels, and washcloths during the week as needed. There are trash bags and cleaning supplies in the kitchens or common areas.
A light, packable waterproof poncho or jacket (preferred) or travel-size umbrella for rainy days.
Prescription medications and/or vitamins you regularly take and/or medical supplies you regularly use. There are first aid kits in the kitchens or common areas of every residence building.
Cords, chargers, and travel-size surge protectors you need for your laptop and/or phone.
You are welcome to bring your own favorite Keurig coffees or teas, or teabags. All residency buildings have a common kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, coffeemaker, teakettle, and assorted coffees and teas, creams, sugar, and sugar substitutes. All kitchens are stocked with cutlery, plates, cups, glasses, and basic pots and pans and kitchen utensils. We stock the refrigerators daily with cold water and assorted carbonated beverages. Each kitchen also has a stove, but since you receive three square catered meals daily, there is no need to use it. Snacks such as chips and breakfast bars are typically available in the conference or dining rooms of each residence building. There are trash bags and cleaning supplies in the kitchens or common areas. We have stocked bathrooms with feminine products.
Your intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, collaborative spirit, enthusiasm, and interest in rural Black southern and Gullah communities and culture. We strongly advise you come prepared to think about the week’s activities in relation to an academic project of your own, a class that you are taking, and/or a class that you have planned to take.

What is absolutely not permissible during the residency?

No personal vehicles are allowed on the campus.
Narcotics, or drugs of any kind, unless as prescribed by your physician.
Alcoholic beverages of any kind.
Vape pens and vaping products.
Hot plates or any heated cooking appliances in personal rooms.
Electric scooters and bikes are also off limits and should not be brought with you.
Pets of any kind.

Any of the above infractions will result in your immediate dismissal from the program at your own expense.

THANK YOU!!!

Where will you be staying during your residency at the Penn Center?

Benezet House: