University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus Top Questions

pick something that works best for you.

When looking for the college that is right for you make sure to really sit down and spend time giving it considersation. Choosing a college is a very important step and can mean a lot in the end. Of course you need to consider what colleges have your desired major and how well the program is recognized so that when you graduate you will have an easier time finding a job but you also want to make sure that the college you choose is in a location you are satisfied with and feel comfortable living in. Food services at school are also much more important than you might first think so be sure you find the types of food and food plans you are used to and can enjoy. Finally, when you do choose your college please make sure you take advantage of every opportunity possible, meet as many new people as you can, and find out what you are truly passionate about and want to spend the rest of your life doing. Good luck!

You should definitly visit the school before agreeing to attend. Keep all different types of schools in mind because what you think you want might change once you experience a certain campus. Just because a school has an amazing name attached to it, doesn't mean that it is the best decision, you need to go where you feel at home and can see yourself enjoying this next stage of your life. Find out what types of internship opportunities are available through the school. Once you're there, the best way to make the most out of the experience is to be open to all of the opportunities, clubs, etc. available to you. If you keep an open mind throughout the process, you will have a much easier time. (and don't wait until the last minute to fill out applications!)

Go to a college that "feels right." And by that I mean, you have to feel comfortable with the University and people there or else you wont have a great college experience and you definately wont do well academically. Also, visiting as many colleges as possible is very helpful, because then you can see what you like in a college and what you don't, some people like small class sizes other people like all the activity of a large university. But when the college is right, you can just tell. During college, be as involved as possible, do research, join student groups, be a teaching assistant. The more ways to put yourself out there to meet peers, faculty and staff, the better off you will be.

Even if you don't really know what you want to major in, or really why you're going to go to college at all, think of the things you really like to do and what career options might be available regarding those interests, and then apply to schools which have strong programs leading to majors in those fields. Definitely attend open houses and tours to those schools, because you want to make sure you like the environment, and meet people there, and you want to see if the location is okay. I'm attending college relatively close to home, but still far away enough that my parents can't ask me to come home and visit. Keep in mind that in-state tuition may be cheaper than out-of-state, but you may be more eligible to get scholarships and grants for out-of-state schools. Start looking for scholarships as early as middle school (the youngest age requirement I've seen is 13) because the more you apply for, the more likely you will receive one. I suggest getting a job as early as possible to save up for school. And try not to feel pressured about it.

When looking for the right school, the potential student and helping parents should seriously consider what type of environment the student prefers to live and study in. Personally, I come from a small town but I always knew that I wanted to go to the city for college and potentially stay there after I graduate. Also, the colleges in question should be considered according to their academic standing and how that institution can assist in getting a job after graduation. It's a stressful decison but more than anything, you will know when a college feels right for you and my advice would be to trust that instinct--it worked for me. Once you're at college, immediately meet everyone on your floor and get involved in organizations and groups. Just be careful not to get involved with too much because above all, you must remember that you came to college to study. Making the most of college is really just balancing social activities and academia. Take your course work seriously and work hard, but don't get burned out. Make sure you're having fun once in a while and course work will be much more manageable.

Pick a school that is in an area you like. if you like being in the city around a lot of people then Pitt is a awesome choice but it's not for everyone. Also for being as prestigious as Pitt is, it's a lot less expensive then most schools of it's caliber. But don't pick a school just for prestige or money but realize that this is your choice to be where you want and do what you want to do. Pick something that will make you happy.

It is dire that you make multiple campus visits. Check out everything and anything you can while visiting your potential college campus. Most importantly, make your choice on your own. Don't be swayed by sports or where your friends are going. Choose a campus that really fits you as a person

don't stress if you don't know exactly what you want to do go to a college that offers a variety of opportunites and take full advantage of being a student explore new things and you will easily find where your interests and passions really lie

Look for a college that has the type of student body that you would like to become. Try not to make any long term decisions when your young.