Annie Bennett was half way to graduation at a small liberal arts college when she made the decision to transfer to the University of Pennsylvania.

Bennett, an art history major from Culpeper, Va., entered Penn as a junior this semester. She says that transferring at this point was a difficult decision, but it’s been a positive change already.

“Moving from a small, liberal arts school to Penn has given me so many more options,” Bennett says. “Social life was limited at my former school, but here there’s something for everyone. Penn students don’t realize how lucky they are to have hundreds of lectures, plays, recitals, sports games and club meetings to choose from in any given week.”

She adds the art history department at Penn, offers more than 30 classes where her old school offered only 10.

“Opportunities are here that didn’t exist at my past school. That freedom of choice is truly special,” says Bennett, who plans to attend law school after earning her undergraduate degree.

The college experience Bennett sought out at Penn also includes Greek life, various other student organizations and athletic clubs.

She has already pledged Zeta Tau Alpha, is a member of the Social Planning and Events Committee for concerts and serves on the SPEC Film Society. She also plays defense for Penn’s Field Hockey Club.

“Right away, I have two social networks and support systems that wouldn’t have been possible at my previous school,” Bennett says. “Plus, I take comfort in having an ‘identity.’ As a new student, it helps to have places where you’ll always know you belong.”

She started playing field hockey in sixth grade and played on the varsity team during high school. Bennett, whose mom and aunt also played field hockey, says she’s honored to carry on this family legacy.

Along with 30 of her close friends, members of the club, she’s wrapping up the fall season that runs from September to November.

Unlike other sports, the club is co-ed and welcomes all students at Penn. The tight-knit group includes exchange, graduate and undergraduate students.

There was so much interest among potential players this season, the team, which was introduced at Penn in 1996, was unable to accept all of its applicants. But spring tryouts are just around the corner.

The Penn Field Hockey Club will be back on the field for its spring 2015 season in March. Games are free and open to the public.

With nearly a 20-year history, the club competes in the Central division of the National Field Hockey League and plays at Ellen Vagelos Field.