Women Empowerment Month: UPenn BFS Edition

Written by Rosie Bui, BFS25 , Edited by Vivian Cai, W24

As the seasons change and we begin to swap in our fancy winter coats for flowy sunflower dresses, the month of March brings many exciting new beginnings. March means blooming flowers, St. Patrick’s day celebrations, spring break, and arguably the most important, its designation as women’s month. March is a time to reflect on important and empowering female figures in our lives. It is an opportunity to highlight their impact and reflect on how they have inspired young women like ourselves.  

The Benjamin Franklin Scholars Program at the University of Pennsylvania is a community of intellectuals from all four schools at Penn– The College of Arts and Sciences, The School of Engineering and Applied Science, The Nursing School, and The Wharton School of Business. Students are selected based on their demonstrated potential to foster an interdisciplinary approach to learning, their personal skill sets, and impressive academic talents. In the spirit of women’s month, fellow BFS students would like to recognize the women role models that have inspired and motivated them to become the bright individuals they are today. 

Julia Dase, a mechanical engineering student, chose Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Dounda–– two inspiring female figures that have paved the way for high-level developments in the science and related stem fields. Both are recognized for their work on CRISPR-Cas9 technology, a game-changing tool used to edit DNA. 

Claudia Magahis, a student in the college, chose Simone Biles–– a world-class gymnast and mental health advocate that has inspired many young girls to strive for excellence. 

Teavona Joel, a student studying at the Wharton School, chose her mother–– the fierce and irreplaceable foundation of her family. 


The group of women chosen come from many different roles, occupations, and fields of study, all are undoubtedly honorable figures in our community that have set the gold standard. But what they all have in common is that they inspire young women like us to be courageous, never give up, and continue to challenge ourselves to achieve great things. Every day, and especially this month, we should reflect and honor those women whose spirit has influenced and inspired us. Take the time to identify those who have made a difference in your life. How have they shaped who you are today? What about them makes them your role model? Perhaps one day, you will be the role model to some young and ambitious girl, ready to make her mark in the world. 

Wharton WomenComment