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South Side in Pittsburgh
Boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, theater and live music venues are all within walking distance. You can also get a tattoo, dye your hair purple and hoist a craft brew, making for some of the best people-watching around!
Apartments for College Students – Things to Consider
Tired of dorm room living? Ready to make the move off campus? When looking for the perfect apartment, be sure to ask yourself or your potential landlord the following questions: How much is the security deposit? What is required to receive the deposit back when the lease ends? Are utilities included in the rent and which ones? (Gas, electric, water, trash removal, etc.) Will you need a cosigner for the lease? Do you have a parent or guardian willing to do so? Is the apartment close to public transportation or within walking distance to your classes? Is the apartment furnished? If so, what is included when you move in? Is parking available? If there is off-street parking, will you be able to easily find a space? Are pets allowed? Are additional fees or security deposits necessary? Is there a secure entrance into the building? Is the area well lit? Is there a buzzer or intercom system for when guests arrive? Are there enough electrical outlets in each room? Do they accommodate plugs with three prongs? Do ceiling tiles, cabinets, sinks, floors, or windows display any signs of leaking? Is there a laundry room? If not, where is the closest Laundromat? […]
College Checklist
Put this checklist in your back to school binder. Living on your own means showing your style and your local IKEA store has every essential for dapper dorm rooms and smart apartments. Sharpen your pencil and get started! Living & Sleeping Sleep: the most important “S” word in every student’s vocabulary. Curtains Alarm clock Loft bed Pillows Sheets Pillowcases Comforter Duvet cover Blankets Mattress Mattress pad Table lamps Floor lamps Sofa-bed Chairs Area rugs Side table Picture frames Pictures Wastepaper basket Energy saving light bulbs Plants Studying If you create an oasis for studying, your diploma won’t just be a mirage. Desk Computer desk Laptop table Desk chair Work lamp Desk organizers Desk trays File cabinet Storage units Notice boards Laptop bag Batteries Surge protector Cord/cable organizer Eating Ramen noodles taste delicious when served in colorful bowls. Cookware Food storage containers Coffee mugs Bowls Plates Flatware Can opener Bottle opener Storing & Organizing Focus on your homework; not finding lost textbooks. Storage units Bookcases Media storage Drawer organizers Message board Hangers Shoe organizers Door hangers Closet organizers Clothes rack Shelves Hooks Showering No one talks to the smelly kid. Shower caddy Towels Wash cloths Mirror Scale Cleaning Dirty laundry doesn’t […]
Pittsburgh Neighborhoods
Regent Square Regent Square is a tree-lined neighborhood on the eastern edge of the City of Pittsburgh. Sited along both sides of Braddock Avenue between the Parkway East and Forbes Avenue, the neighborhood is composed of portions of the municipalities of Edgewood, Pittsburgh, Swissvale and Wilkinsburg. Regent Square includes a mix of apartments, single-family homes and a small central business district. Regent Square, like much of Pittsburgh’s East End, contains a large proportion of professionals associated with the city’s medical and educational institutions. These residents share the neighborhood with a significant number of students and younger singles attracted to its proximity to Chatham, Carlow and Carnegie Mellon Universities, the University of Pittsburgh, Frick Park, and readily available mass transit to Oakland and downtown Pittsburgh. Scenic Frick Park borders the western edge defining the unique physical character of the neighborhood and creating its strong sense of place. Frick Park is the largest of the City of Pittsburgh’s four major parks, with 561 acres of mostly wooded parkland in the Nine Mile Run stream valley. Park amenities include playgrounds, red clay tennis courts, a bowling green, and the nearby Frick Art & Historical Center. The many trails through the park’s steep valleys […]
Campus Life in the ‘Burgh
Colleges & Universities in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Over 60,000 students are enrolled in colleges and universities in the City of Pittsburgh. Where do they all go? Carlow University Carlow University was founded in 1929 as a private, Catholic liberal arts college for women. While continuing to serve primarily women, Carlow’s enrollment is open to all. With enrolment just under 2,200 students and a student to faculty ratio of 12:1, Carlow students enjoy a personalized educational experience rooted in a long tradition of academic excellence. Academic programs are offered at the school’s main campus in Oakland and at its satellite campuses in Greensburg and Cranberry. Carlow also has extensive programming for graduate and nontraditional adult students. Carnegie Melon University (CMU) Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) was founded in 1967 when the merger of Mellon Institute and the famous Carnegie Tech formed what is now a global research university with more than 11,000 students, 84,000 alumni, and 4,000 faculty and staff. Recognized for its world-class arts and technology programs, collaboration across disciplines and innovative leadership in education, Carnegie Mellon is consistently a top-ranked university. Chatham University Chatham University, nestled on 39 acres of tree-lined streets located in the heart of Shadyside, was founded in […]
International Student Resources
Tips for International Students Planning to Study in Pittsburgh Find a place for your luggage and temporary housing. If you arrive before the term starts, most universities will arrange for international students to stay in the dormitories on a daily basis at fairly nominal rates. If such arrangements are not available, consider a hotel or motel in Pittsburgh. Go to the Office of International Students or Services at your school: University of Pittsburgh (412-624-7120); Carnegie Mellon (412-268-5231); Duquesne (412-396-6113); Point Park (412-392-4775); Carlow(412-578-6010); Chatham (412-365-1618); Robert Morris (412-397-5200). Stop by the admissions or student services office. Confirm your admissions and inquire about any formalities that have to be completed. Meet with your academic advisor and plan your overall program and the specific courses you will be enrolled in for your first term at school. Complete the registration procedures and take your first sigh of relief! Start looking for permanent housing. Finding a suitable apartment can be an ordeal. The Living section should give you an idea for how to go about looking for an apartment in the Pittsburgh area. If you need to contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Office, it is located in the Federal Building, 1000 Liberty Ave., Downtown (800-375-5283). Also, many colleges offer some kind of English as a Second Language (ESL) […]
Universities and Higher Education in Pittsburgh
The following universities, schools, departments, and offices are just a sampling of the distributing partners of the annual Student Guide to Pittsburgh. If your university department would like to request free copies, please email us today! Carlow University – Student Affairs Carnegie Mellon University – Entertainment Technology Center Carnegie Mellon University – Housing Services Carnegie Mellon University – Language Technologies Institute Carnegie Mellon University – Mechanical Engineering Carnegie Mellon University – MS Computer Science Carnegie Mellon University – PhD Computer Science Carnegie Mellon University – Office of International Education CCAC Boyce Campus – Student Life Chatham University – Enrollment Management Chatham University – International Student Services Chatham University – Online Admissions Duquesne University – Graduate Office of Student & Academic Services Duquesne University – John F. Donahue Graduate School of Business Duquesne University – International Programs Duquesne University – Office of Admissions Duquesne University – School of Education Duquesne University – School of Nursing Pittsburgh Theological Seminary Point Park University – Campus Life Point Park University – International Student Services Robert Morris University Robert Morris University – Center for Global Engagement University of Pittsburgh – Department of Communication University of Pittsburgh – English Language Institute University of Pittsburgh – Graduate School […]
Major Decision, Major Headache…?
Choosing a major is often a frustrating process because it really forces one to answer the age- old question, “What do I want to do when I grow up?” There are so many things to consider and, many times, students are influenced by others and make choices that are not necessarily a good fit. Parents may expect you to follow in the family business, or to follow a certain profession because it is a family tradition. Teachers will offer advice based on your work in school. Some folks will push you toward a certain career because of the potential to make a lot of money. While these bits of advice are given by people who mean well, they are not necessarily looking at what’s best for you. Choosing a major can be based on a subject or activity that you really enjoy or at which you excel. If you loved your literature course in high school, you might major in English or world literature. If you have been active in sports and want to work with athletes, maybe you would choose exercise kinesiology or sports nutrition. Your passion for food and entertaining might lead you to choose hospitality management. Often, […]
The First Year Blues
By: Atiya Irvin-Mitchell So, you leave a place that for better or worse you have spent more time at then home for four years. You move away or most your friends move away, or both in some cases. You’re away from the watchful eye or eyes of your parental units for possibly the first time in your life. And now you have to be a grown up. The best years of your life are all set to begin. Right? But what if it doesn’t feel like the best? Okay, so here are a couple of not so fun facts: It’s estimated that one in four young adults experience some form of mental illness. About 25% of college students are diagnosed with some sort of mental illness. 64% of college students who leave school, leave for reasons related to mental health. 80% of college students have admitted to feeling overwhelmed. 40% of students with diagnosed mental illnesses do not seek help. Why did I just tell you all of these things? Because people will tell you about all the fun you will have in college. And there is fun. People will advise you on classes and meal plans. People will even […]
How To Find An Internship Through Your Existing Network
Written by: Crystal Vietmeier, Assistant Director of Career Development, Internships and Experiential Learning – Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA Reviewed and edited by: Cara Gillotti, Senior Copywriter, Marketing and Communications – Chatham University, Pittsburgh, PA Studies show that 80% of jobs are landed through networking, and an internship is a great way to network your way into a job. But why else do an internship? An internship provides a better understanding of what is expected in your field of interest and can also reaffirm or change your decision to pursue a career in that field. The hands-on experience will enhance your “soft skills” that are essential to any work place, as well as your knowledge and skills within your field. Having the opportunity to utilize these skills ultimately helps you to gain confidence in your abilities and to speak about your accomplishments with potential employers. An internship provides you with the opportunity to learn from and network with professionals in a real-life environment. Ultimately, internships will make you more marketable to employers, as this is certainly what they are looking for on resumes – relevant experience. Now that you understand the importance of doing an internship (or more than one, if possible), let’s talk […]
Things I Wish I’d Known
By: Atiya Irvin-Mitchell You make that fateful last trip down the hallowed halls of High School, walk across the stage, get your diploma, and prepare yourself for the next part of your life. Like with most things, everyone you know is full of advice for you and stories of their own. Your parents will tell you how much fun college was for them. Your teachers most likely fed up with the case of senioritious most of the class has contracted will tell you that in college your professors will not care. Television shows and movies tell you about keggers, hook ups, and pranks. Mandatory movies in health class will warn you about the dangers of bing drinking and drug use. But what do people wish they’d known as freshman? And what should you know? Seven different college students have some advice for you. First and foremost: Ignore the movies. Really, ignore the movies. College is not one big party. There will be parties, and clubs, and karaoke nights, but college is also hard. Emotionally and academically hard. “I coasted a lot in high school,” says college junior Aline Hoffman, “Things that you could get away with in high school, you […]
Easy, Healthy Eating On Campus
By Kate Safin, East End Food Co-op Few on-campus dining options, living on your own for the first time, or a limited budget could all contribute to adopting poor eating habits while in college. But eating a balanced and healthy diet is critical to maintaining the focus and mental stamina required to be a successful student. This is not the time to slack on healthy habits! Eating well on a budget (and even in a dorm) doesn’t have to be a challenge. Toss out all your take-out menus and follow this guide to build easy, healthy, and budget-friendly meals you can make with little time, preparation, or experience. Breakfast: Fresh, whole fruit: Apples, bananas, and oranges don’t require refrigeration or preparation and are easy to eat on-the-go. Plus they are packed with fiber, vitamins, and are naturally hydrating. For protein, eat with almond butter or peanut butter. Overnight oats: Here is a quick and healthy breakfast that doesn’t require any cooking. Simply place 1 cup of oats in a mason jar, cover with 11 cup of milk, add any fruit and spices you desire and set in the refrigerator overnight. You can toss the whole jar in your book bag […]
Staying Healthy In College
College is an exciting time of growth and learning for young adults, and for many of you, the first time in your life where you primarily are responsible for your health and the many decisions that affect it. While the dad in me would love to remind you to avoid the midday sun and tanning beds, eat 8 servings of fruits and vegetables daily, wear your seat belt, and please don’t use your phone while driving, I suspect doing so would garner a collective twenty-something eye roll. The seasoned [meaning “old”!] physician in me knows chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes are not on your imminent radar as threats. So then, what words of wisdom COULD I share that might keep you from suffering ill health during your semester? Thinking back over my years as campus doc at Davis and Elkins College in rural West Virginia, I offer the following 3 pearls of advice: STRESS!! The challenges associated with college and being away from home are many, and include worry over workload and grades, money, and relationships to name “the biggies”. How you handle these stressors will directly affect your health. Good diet beyond GrubHub, regular self-care through exercise, […]
Neighborhood Profile: Downtown Pittsburgh
Downtown Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh boasts 90 neighborhoods with Downtown at its heart. Enter from the airport through the Fort Pitt Tunnel and see the skyline burst into view. It’s why Pittsburgh is said to be the “only city with an entrance.” With its lush green hillsides and beautiful rivers, the appropriately nicknamed “Golden Triangle” is a glittering gem. Home to a wealth of historic, cultural and entertainment sites, Downtown is booming with new residential buildings making it the city’s fastest-growing neighborhood. The Vibe Friendly and welcoming. Comfortable in its city skin. High heels or flip flops, business suit or bathing suit (for sunbathing at Point State Park, of course!) The List 1. Rent bikes to explore 24 miles of riverfront trails. 2. Visit the iconic fountain and Point State Park, the confluence of Pittsburgh’s three rivers. 3. Visit Dollar Bank Three Rivers Arts Festival, the nation’s biggest free arts festival. 4. Dine al fresco in historic Market Square. 5. Go on a guided architectural or public art walking tour for free. The Name A 1914 article in the Saturday Evening Post gave the “Golden Triangle” nickname national publicity because the land counted among “the most gilded in the United States, having generated […]
Neighborhood Profile: Squirrel Hill
Squirrel Hill: Five minutes from downtown Pittsburgh, Squirrel Hill combines tree lined residential streets, a bustling business district, internationally recognized educational institutions, and large public parks. One of the most diverse neighborhoods in the Pittsburgh region and center for Pittsburgh’s welcoming Jewish community. Home to many authentic eateries as well as over 1100 acres of parks for its residents and visitors to enjoy. The Vibe Cultured. Laid Back. Family Oriented. Friendly and Welcoming! The List 1. Some of the most delicious ethnic restaurants in the city can be found in Squirrel Hill. Try Aladdin’s Eatery, Bangkok Balcony, Gabbe Et Jules, Silk Elephant or Bull River Taco. Not feeling adventurous? Grab some traditional American delights at the Squirrel Hill Café or have breakfast at Pamela’s. 2. Visit Schenley Park, named one of “America’s Coolest City Parks” by Travel and Leisure. At 456 winding acres, it is a wonderful place to hike, bike ride, and more. You can even play an 18 hole round of golf at a fine urban course. 3. What’s life without great pizza? An age old rivalry exists between Aiello’s and Mineo’s Pizza. Both are located on Murray Avenue, and it’s up to you to try them both […]
Neighborhood Profile: Bloomfield
Bloomfield: Bloomfield is Pittsburgh’s “Little Italy” – its Italian roots reaching back more than five generations. The Bloomfield Bridge connects the neighborhood to the universities and cultural attractions in Oakland. Its colorful mix of shops and restaurants are renowned. Bloomfield is a feast as rich to the eyes as the homemade tortellini and cannoli in its shop windows are to the stomach. The Vibe Old-world, working-class, decidedly urban. The List 1. Shop at authentic Italian grocers and bakeries with food that makes your mouth water. 2. Celebrate Italian-American heritage at the three-day Little Italy Days held every August. 3. Bloomfield loves a parade – take part in the annual Columbus Day and Halloween parades – several thousand people celebrate along Liberty Avenue. 4. Enjoy one of the nation’s best burgers at Tessaro’s. 5. Experience Bloomfield’s offerings by taking a ‘Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour. The Name Bloomfield figured prominently in Revolutionary War Era accounts of Pittsburgh and Fort Pitt. George Washington’s journal described traveling from Liberty Village along “the high ground through a field of many blooms,” hence the name Bloomfield. One More Thing Head to Brillobox or Howlers Coyote Café for some great music options, any night of […]
Neighborhood Profile: Lawrenceville
Lawrenceville: It’s the city’s biggest and arguably hippest neighborhood. Home to many artists and designers, this trendy neighborhood hosts some of the city’s biggest arts events. It’s a neighborhood on the rise with affordable properties, first-rate, one-of-a-kind shops and an awesome dining scene. The neighborhood has undergone such a revival that it’s called a “go-to” destination by The New York Times. Located less than three miles from Downtown, it’s a neighborhood with deep roots, too. In fact, composer Stephen Foster’s father charted the street plans in 1814. The Vibe Walkable and welcoming. Entrepreneurial. Unique and distinct. Old-world charm, modern-day edge. The List 1. Go on an Allegheny Cemetery tour with the Office of Public Art. 2. Take a spin at Arsenal Bowl, where cool meets retro. 3. See and be seen at Art All Night. 4. Visit the Great One’s legacy at The Roberto Clemente Museum. 5. Shop and eat at the annual Joy of Cookies Cookie Tour. The Name Named for Captain James Lawrence, hero of War of 1812 and famous for his dying words, “Don’t Give Up The Ship!” One More Thing Stephen Foster was born here. Every July, this composer of America’s first pop songs like “Oh, […]
Neighborhood Profile: Mt. Washington
Mt. Washington: A grand view awaits atop Mt. Washington, one of the most visited neighborhoods in Pittsburgh. Running the length of the mount, Grandview Avenue provides unique vantage points of Pittsburgh’s beautiful skyline. “Restaurant Row” boasts stunning views coupled with elegant, fine dining. Pull yourself away from the view on Shiloh Street for delicious ice cream, yummy baked goods and bountiful breakfasts. Mt. Washington is a feast for the eyes…and the tummy too! The Vibe Awe-inspiring and uplifting. A dog-walker’s paradise. The List 1. Go up and down the mountain on the two inclines: • Duquesne Incline • Monongahela Incline 2. Wine and dine with a view at Mt. Washington restaurants. 3. Sample Grandview Bakery’s sweet confections. 4. Hike the newest city park, Emerald View, densely wooded yet extremely urban. 5. Catch your breath and a photo at the “Point of View” statue. The Name Young George Washington once stood along what is now Grandview Avenue and mapped the land and rivers below for the British who lay claim to the forks of the Ohio River. One More Thing Just a few blocks from Grandview is Chatham Village, a unique residential garden community that’s been named a National Historic Landmark […]
Neighborhood Profile: North Shore and North Side
North Shore and North Side Along the Allegheny and Ohio Rivers, the North Shore boasts great views of Downtown. Most famous for its iconic sports venues on the North Shore – Heinz Field and PNC Park – it’s also home to world-class museums and award-winning attractions. Take the T (the subway under the river…it’s free) or walk to Rivers Casino, The Andy Warhol Museum, Mattress Factory, Kayak Pittsburgh, National Aviary, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Science Center, to name a few! Make a note: It’s one of the best places in the city to watch fireworks…and there are plenty of chances to do that! The Vibe Genuine and historically relevant. Sporty. Community-minded. Diverse and dynamic. The List 1. Go on a guided tour of PNC Park or Heinz Field. 2. Stroll or bike along the North Shore Trail. 3. Visit Randyland, the city’s most colorful building. 4. Visit the larger-than-life Mister Rogers’ statue located near Heinz Field. 5. Check out the City of Asylum, where exiled writers are invited to stay. The Name The “North Shore” was once part of Allegheny City, a separate borough from Pittsburgh. It describes 18 smaller neighborhoods overlooking the city, including aptly named places […]
Neighborhood Profile: Oakland
Oakland: Home to prestigious museums, world-class hospitals and universities and international cuisine, Oakland is considered the cultural, academic and medical center of Pittsburgh. As one of Pittsburgh’s liveliest neighborhoods, you’ll find cool coffee shops, multi-cultural eateries and interesting specialty shops alongside grand architecture. Oakland is the place to be whether you’re planning a picnic in the park, enjoying an evening of drama or seeking an art or history fix. The Vibe Intellectual, international and cultural. Where “eds and meds” intersect with culture and heritage. The List 1. Study at the University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning, a 53-story gothic building that’s home to 30 Nationality Rooms. 2. Visit two world-class museums for just one admission price – Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History. 3. Take in the heavenly scents and sights at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. 4. Tap your toes at the Stephen Foster Memorial Museum, which contains one of Foster’s pianos and copies of more than 200 of his musical compositions. 5. Grab a bite at Spice Island Tea House, with its diverse menu featuring Thai, Burmese, Indonesian, Malaysian and Singaporean cuisines. The Name Oakland got its name from the abundance of oak trees found on the […]
Neighborhood Profile: Shadyside
Shadyside: Where boutiques, shops and galleries mingle with national retailers in a neighborhood of tree-lined streets, historic homes, hip events and distinctive restaurants. Most everything is within walking distance. The large residential area includes beautifully restored Victorian mansions alongside modern homes and condos. This East End neighborhood, with three separate business districts – Ellsworth Avenue, Walnut Street and S. Highland Avenue – is one of Pittsburgh’s toniest, and is conveniently located about six miles from Downtown. The Vibe Upscale hip. Earthy undertones. Savvy style with modish sensibilities and an academic fringe factor. The List 1. Get your art on at the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. 2. Visit Roslyn Place, said to be the lone remaining wooden street in the country. 3. Dine al Fresco along the hidden side streets. 4. Kick up your heels during the Summer Jam on Walnut. 5. Walk across the artful pedestrian bridge to revitalized East Liberty. The Name Before it was developed in the mid 1800s, Shadyside was filled with woods and farmlands – complete with shady lanes. One More Thing Enjoy 50+ dog-friendly businesses in Shadyside – whether you’re shoe shopping or dining on the patio, dogs are welcome here! Article provided by […]
Neighborhood Profile: Strip District
Strip District: Don’t be fooled by the name. The Strip, as it’s called, is foodie heaven and as authentic as it is fun. Locals love it for its low, low prices and tremendous selections. The one-half square mile shopping district is chock full of ethnic grocers, produce stands, meat and fish markets and sidewalk vendors. Breathe deep because you won’t want to escape the splendid aromas of fresh-roasted coffee or just-baked bread. Bordering Downtown, this neighborhood is pure Pittsburgh. The Vibe Gritty and authentic. Bursting with local flavor. No pretense, no fluff. Just plain good. The List 1. Devour a Primanti Brothers signature sandwich. 2. Bone up on Pittsburgh at the Senator John Heinz History Center. 3. Sign up for a ‘Burgh Bits & Bites food tour. 4. Get an art fix at the one-of-a-kind Contemporary Craft. 5. Dine at Lidia’s Pittsburgh restaurant, owned by Lidia Bastianich of public TV fame. The Name “The Strip,” as locals call it, is just that – a narrow strip (one-half mile) of land between the Allegheny River and a mountain of a hill. One More Thing After building his first factory in the Strip District in 1871, George Westinghouse not only invented air […]