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University of Pittsburgh Division of Student Affairs Office of Parent and Family Resources 130 William Pitt Union 3959 Fifth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15260 parents.pitt.edu
About this Guide UniversityParent has published this guide in partnership with the University of Pittsburgh with the mission of helping you easily navigate your student’s university with the most timely and relevant information available. Discover more articles, tips and local business information by visiting the online guide at: www.universityparent.com/pitt The presence of university/college logos and marks in this guide does not mean the school endorses the products or services offered by advertisers in this guide. 2995 Wilderness Place, Suite 205 Boulder, CO 80301 www.universityparent.com Advertising Inquiries: (866) 721-1357 ads@universityparent.com
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Pitt Guide Comprehensive advice and information for student success Welcome to Pitt! Parent and Family Resources 10 Places Your First-Year Student Should Visit Safety Health and Wellness On-Campus Living Off-Campus Living Campus Life Outside the Classroom Curriculum: Developing the Whole Student Campus Map Academic Resources Financial Information Student Employment Career Resources Technology Resources Study Abroad Privacy Laws Student Code of Conduct Frequently Asked Questions Pitt Area Resources
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Letter from the Vice Provost and Dean of Students
Welcome to Pitt! Dear Parents and Families: We are delighted that your student has chosen to attend one of the great universities in America — the University of Pittsburgh. This is an exciting time not only for your student, but also for your entire family as you embark together on what we hope will be a wonderful journey during the next several years. The Division of Student Affairs and the Office of Parent and Family Resources are here to assist you on the journey. Our aim is to provide the best collegiate experience in the world for our students 6
by supporting their academic endeavors in the classroom with an incredible array of programs and services outside the classroom. We are committed to helping to support your student in the best possible way by providing you with the best possible information and resources. We have created opportunities for our students to learn, grow, and develop in many important areas, such as leadership, service, and global and cultural awareness. We have programs that are designed to help students gain a better University of Pittsburgh
sense of who they are and what they want to become, as well as programs to help students maintain wellness through a healthy lifestyle. All of our Student Affairs programs and activities are part of a University-wide initiative designed to educate the whole student called the Outside the Classroom Curriculum. I encourage you to take advantage of the Panther Parents Association so that you will receive our electronic newsletters and other correspondence. Please visit the parents Web site at parents.pitt.edu and www.universityparent.com/pitt
participate in New Student Orientation in late August and Family Weekend on October 2–4, 2015. Once again, we welcome your family to the Pitt family and look forward to seeing you on campus.
Hail to Pitt! Kenyon R. Bonner Interim Vice Provost and Dean of Students
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Parent and Family Resources
Our Mission The University of Pittsburgh Office of Parent and Family Resources will serve as a resource for parents and families ensuring that they have the tools and opportunities to be appropriately involved and connected with the University. We will partner with and support parents and families so that by working together, University of Pittsburgh students will achieve academic success and develop to their full potential. At the University of Pittsburgh, we share a common goal with parents and families: supporting the success of our students! We value the role that parents and families play in the collegiate experience, and we are here to assist in any way we can. The Office of Parent and Family Resources provides easy access to valuable resources through our Web site (www.parents.pitt.edu), this parent 8
handbook, webinars, monthly newsletters, and special events. In addition, we periodically send general announcements to parents and families using our parent list serve. You may sign up for the parent list serve at www.parents.pitt.edu. The department provides opportunities for parents to connect with each other throughout the year at events such as New Student Orientation, local and regional events, and Family Weekend which is scheduled for October 2–4, 2015. For more information visit www.familyweekend.pitt.edu. For additional information about Parent and Family Programs please contact us at parents@pitt.edu. Parent and Family Liaison Contact We strongly encourage our students to take increasing responsibility for their University of Pittsburgh
academic and social college experience. Student Affairs provides student development and life skills opportunities throughout the year to help students achieve confidence and independence so that they assume reasonable responsibility. However, we know that there are times when students may need help, and we know that, “When the going gets tough, the tough call home.” (Savage, 2010). We are here if you need guidance in helping your Panther resolve an issue or concern. Please feel free to contact the Parent Liaison at 412-624-8548 or parents@pitt.edu. The Liaison can help you chart the correct path in resolving an issue or concern. This number and e-mail address are monitored during business hours when the University is open, and you will be contacted as soon as possible if you leave a message and contact information. If your concern is a crisis that needs to be addressed immediately and
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cannot wait until the University is open for business, please call the Pitt Police at 412-624-2121, and they will address the crisis or connect you to the appropriate resources. For more information on how to support and guide your college student through their development and to know when your attention may be warranted, you may want to read: You’re On Your Own (But I’m Here if you Need Me): Mentoring your Student During the College Years, revised and updated edition. Marjorie Savage. Fireside, Simon & Schuster, 2003, 2010. Panther Parents Association As the parent or guardian of a Pitt student, you are automatically a member of the Panther Parents Association (PPA).
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The PPA is a collaborative initiative between parents of current Pitt students and the University designed to: • Keep parents informed and educated about available resources • Provide opportunities to meet and interact with other Pitt parents • Promote and support University programs
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PPA benefits are free to parents and include: • Monthly electronic newsletters • Dedicated parent Web site (www.parents.pitt.edu) • Dedicated e-mail account (parents@pitt.edu) • Dedicated phone line 412-624-8548 • Orientation programming • Printed and electronic handbook • Webinars • Assistance from the Parent and Family Liaison • Panther Parents Association Facebook page Panther Parent Ambassadors If you would like to step up your role in helping the University of Pittsburgh Office of Parent and Family Resources, please consider a new leadership opportunity — the Panther Parent Ambassadors. This group of parents or guardians will focus on assisting and enhancing programs and
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Other helpful resource links include: Academic Calendar: www.provost. pitt.edu/information-on/calendar.html University “Find People� and Departmental Phone listings: find.pitt.edu
newsletter, serve as resource parents for their regions, and work with local and regional Pitt Alumni Clubs to promote good will, student support, and Pitt pride. Member registration fees offset the costs of promotional items and Parent Ambassador social activities. Thank you for considering this service in support of all Pitt parents, students, and the University. To register, please go to www.parents.pitt.edu and click on the Ambassador link or contact us at 412-624-8548 or parents@pitt.edu.
Save the Date! Family Weekend is October 2–4, 2015 www.familyweekend.pitt.edu
resources for Pitt parents and students. Ambassadors may participate in programs such as local and regional Freshmen Summer Sendoffs, New Student and Parent Orientation and Family Weekend. Current Parent Ambassadors may write articles for the Panther Connections www.universityparent.com/pitt
Resource Links Our Parent and Family Web site contains links that will provide you with excellent information on the Pitt experience. Please visit www.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/parents links regarding visiting campus and the City of Pittsburgh; campus maps, parking information and transportation; admissions and financial matters; New and Transfer Student Orientation and the First-Year Experience; various academic resources; student involvement opportunities; career planning and placement; health and wellness; and safety. 11
10 Places Your First-Year Student Should Visit
n The Hillman Library It seems obvious that your student should know where the library is, but some students never take advantage of this resource. Now that students can do so much research online, they don’t head to the library as often. Encourage your student to check out what the Hillman Library on Forbes Avenue has to offer. In addition to the books on the shelves and electronic resources, the library offers quiet places to study, movies and magazines, group study rooms, computers, and the Cup and Chaucer CafÊ. Get help at the Ground Floor Information Desk, and remember, Hillman is open 24/5 during the fall and Spring Terms. www.library.pitt.edu
campus, making printing a snap. For more information about Pitt printing and computer lab locations, visit technology.pitt.edu.
n Panther Central Panther Central is the go-to place for all the essentials of daily living, from transportation to housing to finding a good meal. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, this office is the place to go if your students get locked out of their room, loose their student ID, need to find a bus home during the break or want to make changes to their meal plan. The office is
n The nearest computer lab and print station While many students will bring their own computer and/or printer to school, it’s important to check out the computer labs on campus where students can work, print papers, and recharge their cell phones. In addition, more than 50 Pitt Print stations are conveniently located throughout 12
University of Pittsburgh
located in Towers Lobby or they can be reached by calling 412-648-1100.
n The Academic Resource Center (ARC), Math Assistance Center and The Writing Center There is no doubt that Pitt has some of the best and brightest students in the country. However, many of our students may need help with class work at some point in their college career. Finding out what services are offered, how to sign up and how much advance notice is needed will help them to be prepared. Students can get help with writing assignments, speaking assignments, specific course tutoring, or study materials. The ARC is located in G-1 Gardner Steel Conference Center and the MAC and Writing Centers are located on the second floor of the O’Hara Student Center.
n The Wellness Center – Student Health Service (SHS) and the University Counseling Center (UCC) We hope that students will stay healthy throughout their college career. However, when those health issues arise — either major or minor — Student Health Service (SHS) is the place to get help. Your student should locate SHS early, know the hours, know what is offered, and know whether to call ahead or drop in. With any luck, they will never need the services of SHS, but if they do, it will be reassuring to know how to get there. The SHS is located in Mark A. Nordenberg Hall, 111 University Place across from the University Store on Fifth. Starting college can be a very stressful and overwhelming time for students. The University Counseling Center (UCC) is available for all students whether they are currently in treatment or in need of a consultation. The UCC offers a variety of mental health services for students including assessment, counseling and psychotherapy (individual, group, and couples). The UCC also offers crises
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intervention, consultation, referrals and outreach services. Specialized services are offered in the Sexual Assault Services and Substance Abuse Services programs. The UCC is located in Mark A. Nordenberg Hall, 111 University Place across from the University Store on Fifth.
n First-Year Experience (FYE) The Office of First-Year Experience provides new, commuter, and transfer students with social and educational opportunities in the residence halls and throughout campus to help them get connected. The Office of Student Life has more than 400 student organizations that students can join and lead (a listing can be found at sorc.pitt.edu).
n Fitness Facilities The Department of Intramurals and Recreation provides many fitness services to students, faculty and staff. With three supervised fitness centers and eleven 24-hour residence hall fitness rooms, opportunities to exercise are always available. Students are given exclusive access to a wide variety of structured fitness programs including group exercise, personal training, fitness assessments and exercise prescriptions. From the 13
experienced fitness enthusiast to the recreational novice, students will be able to find something to fulfill their fitness needs.
n The Registrar’s Office Located at 220 Thackeray Hall, the Registrar’s Office is the campus office that handles all issues related to grades and college transcripts. They also deal with dropping or adding classes, incomplete grades, and course registration. Your student should know where this office is located and when it is open.
n The William Pitt Union (WPU) and the O’Hara Student Center The student centers are ideal for students to become engaged in social life at school, meet friends, purchase tickets, see movies, hear speakers, watch shows, sign up for trips, and even study in one of the WPU’s many study lounges. The WPU houses many Student Affairs offices,
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student organizations and Nordy’s, a popular spot to “just hang out.” The O’Hara Student Center houses the Writing and Math Centers, a quiet study lounge, and our new “Thriftsburg” shop. In addition, the O’Hara Student Center serves as a venue for campus events and programs including guest speakers, live performers, and special events. Encourage your student to check out what is offered at both locations and take advantage of their services.
n Career Development and Placement Assistance (CDPA) CDPA is located on the 2nd floor of the WPU and helps students with such topics as choosing a major, exploring careers and graduate schools, building résumés, interviewing, finding and obtaining employment, job shadowing and more. They also offer FutureLinks, a comprehensive career management system as well as several on-campus
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job fairs for summer employment, parttime positions, internships and fulltime employment. Your student will be contacted by CDPA early in their first year
at Pitt, and should visit our office during the fall semester to meet with a career consultant.
22 elegant rooms located in the heart of Shadyside and just a short jaunt from the University of Pittsburgh. www.MANSIONSONFIFTH.com 800.465 .9550 - 412 .381.5105 5105 FIFTH AveNue • PITTSburgH 15232 www.universityparent.com/pitt
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Safety
The University of Pittsburgh goes to great lengths to make sure students, staff, faculty, and guests are protected and understand the systems that are in place to make the environment and collegiate experience as safe as possible. The Pitt Police play an active role in our New Student Orientation programs to inform students about resources that will help keep them safe and what to do in an emergency. Students are encouraged to enter the Pitt Police emergency number, 412-624-2121, into their cell phones under speed dial #9 or in their contact list in case it is ever needed. When out at night, students are encouraged to practice the buddy system or call Pitt’s SafeRider (412-648-CALL or pc.pitt.edu/transportation/saferider.html) to ensure safe arrivals to their destinations. Anyone with a valid Pitt ID is able to use SafeRider. For more information, including hours of operation and travel boundaries, visit the link above.
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There are several ways that the Pitt Police communicates important information to the University community. The Emergency Notification Service (ENS) is used to communicate with subscribers through text, voice, and e-mail notifications. ENS messages will activate upon confirmation of a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate threat to the health or safety of students or employees. Students may add parents and other family members to the ENS system. For more information on ENS, visit: www.technology.pitt.edu/portal/ emergency/emergency-notification.html In addition to ENS, the Pitt Police maintains a “Notify U” list. Subscribers receive crime alerts, news, and other important information via text or e-mail. This service is only available to those affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh, and you must have a valid Pitt log-on account to subscribe to this list. The Pitt Police Web site (police.pitt.edu) is another resource for safety information and tips. You should also visit the Emergency Preparedness page University of Pittsburgh
(pitt.edu/emergency-preparedness). This page is regularly updated with information on important health and safety issues that may impact the Pitt community. If you’re on social media, be sure to like the Pitt Police page on Facebook (facebook.com/pittpolice) and follow Pitt Police on Twitter (twitter.com/PittPolice) for quick updates. Both of these pages are public, meaning that you don’t need to have a Facebook or Twitter account to follow along. Sexual Harassment and Assault Response and Education (SHARE) The University of Pittsburgh values the safety and health of all members of the Pitt community and seeks to foster an environment in which its students and employees treat other persons with respect, civility, and dignity. Any behavior that involves sexual assault or harassment, relationship violence, or stalking of another person is prohibited. If substantiated, such behavior may result in criminal charges if reported to the Pitt Police Department and/or University disciplinary action if the Office of Student Conduct or the Title IX coordinator in the Office of Affirmative Action, Diversity, and Inclusion investigates a complaint or referral. The University will continue to engage in prevention programs and training for students, faculty, and staff in an effort to prevent sexual assault and harassment, relationship violence, and stalking. Pitt’s Office of Sexual Harassment and www.universityparent.com/pitt
Here are a few important safety links: Pitt Police: www.police.pitt.edu Emergency Preparedness: www. pitt.edu/emergency-preparedness (ENS) Emergency Notification System: www.technology.pitt.edu/ portal/emergency/emergencynotification.html Pitt Text Message Updates: technology.pitt.edu/service/pitttext-message-updates Residence Hall Safety: pc.pitt.edu/housing/safety.php Safe Rider: pc.pitt.edu/ transportation/saferider.html For more information, visit www.share.pitt.edu.
Assault Response and Education (SHARE) provides counseling to victims of sexual assault, assists victims in obtaining medical care, and offers support in all aspects of the recovery process. Under the direction of Mary Koch Ruiz, the office also coordinates the University’s educational programs and active approach to preventing sexual assault on campus. Students may contact the SHARE office by calling 412-648-7930 (8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. M–F) or 412-648-7856 (after 5 p.m.) 17
Health and Wellness
Student Health Service (SHS) (studenthealth.pitt.edu) is a primary care facility that features a comprehensive health care clinic, pharmacy and health education program, staffed by medical doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, health educators, and other health care professionals. SHS is fully accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, which supports our commitment to quality. SHS provides an array of primary care medical services to all Pitt students. These include, but are not limited to, women’s gynecological services, men’s
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health, physical therapy and nutritional counseling. Starting May 2015, SHS will bill medical insurance for services rendered. Arrangements have been made for SHS to accept most major health insurance policies. It is important that all students presenting to SHS provide their current medical insurance information. SHS has extended hours of operation six days per week and is conveniently located in Mark A. Nordenberg Hall, 111 University Place. Call 412-383-1800 to schedule an appointment. In an emergency, please call Pitt Police at 412-624-2121.
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The University Counseling Center (UCC) (counseling.pitt.edu) provides comprehensive and confidential personal and academic counseling to Pitt students. Staffed by psychologists, counselors, social workers, psychiatrists, and doctoral interns; the Counseling Center provides individual and group counseling for a variety of conditions including ADHD/ ADD, depression, drug and alcohol issues, anxiety, grief/loss, sexual abuse, trauma recovery, and more. The counseling center has day and evening hours by appointment and is located in the Mark A. Nordenberg Hall, 111 University Place. Please call 412-648-7930 for more information. For emergencies after hours and on weekends, students are encouraged to call the Campus Police to reach the counselor-on-call: 412-624-2121.
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The Office of Disability Resources and Services (DRS) (drs.pitt.edu) provides reasonable accommodations for academically qualified students with disabilities. A reasonable academic accommodation is a modification or adjustment that allows an individual to gain equal access and/or have equal opportunity to participate in the University’s courses, services, activities and use of the facilities. DRS is located on the first floor of the William Pitt Union and they can be contacted at 412-648-7890.
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Off-Campus Living Pitt is committed to providing an incredible experience for students who choose to commute to campus through the Office of Commuter Student Programs (commuter.pitt.edu).
services for transfer and upperclass commuter students, including a weekly newsletter that keeps commuters informed about what is happening on campus and around the city.
Commuter Programs This office sponsors a variety of opportunities for first-year commuter students to become fully engaged in the Pitt experience through Commuter Pods (small communities of commuter students), meet-ups to attend large popular events on campus, and programming specifically designed to meet the unique needs of a first-year commuter student. Commuter Day, a required program for all first-year commuter students, provides students with an opportunity to get connected to each other prior to the start of classes. First-year commuters will also have the opportunity to participate in the Commuter Orientation Overnight Program, designed to allow them to stay overnight in Oakland and fully participate in Orientation Week activities. Additionally, the office provides
The Commuter Student Lounge in the William Pitt Union is a place commuter students can call “home” on campus, become involved in activities, and meet other commuter students. The lounge offers comfortable seating, a microwave, sink, and free coffee and tea for commuter students. Off-Campus Living Office Off-Campus Living (OCL) (ocl.pitt.edu) provides students who choose to live off-campus with necessary information and tools they will need to make educated decisions on their housing options. OCL provides resources such as a renter’s guide, apartment listings, neighborhood descriptions, and a roommate and subletting service.
On-Campus Living Living on campus is a great way for students to connect and get the most out their Pitt experience! Pitt offers a variety of on-campus living options and provides a housing guarantee for most students through their first three years at Pitt. Residence Life Once students have their room assignments, the Office of Residence Life (reslife.pitt.edu) provides opportunities to get connected to campus, meet new friends and connect with other residents in the hall, provides opportunities for personal growth and development, upholds community standards and a safe 20
environment, and promotes involvement in Pitt and the greater Pittsburgh community. A Resident Assistant (RA) lives on the floor and will help welcome your student to Pitt and get his/her college career off to a great start! RAs serve as a great resource and promote social, cultural, and educational events from the moment your student arrives on campus. RAs also serve as a great first resource any time your firstyear student has questions. Panther Central Panther Central, located in the main lobby of the Litchfield Towers, is every student’s go-to place for all of the essentials of daily living at Pitt. Panther Central is open University of Pittsburgh
24 hours a day, seven days a week, and handles housing, dining, student ID cards (Panther Cards), Buses Home for the Holidays ticket purchases, and maintains a variety of amenities associated with these features.
Both Panther Central and Residence Life welcome you and your student to Pitt and are excited to get the year started! Hail to Pitt!
Loading a Student’s Panther Card (student ID) with funds is a convenient alternative to carrying cash. Panther Funds are accepted for food, beverages, merchandise, and services on and off campus. For more information, visit pc.pitt.edu/card. Students sign up for their housing through Panther Central on the my.pitt portal (my.pitt.edu). All questions about housing options, including residence halls and living learning communities, roommate preferences, and meal plan selection will be handled through Panther Central (pc.pitt.edu), 412-648-1100, or at pc@pc.pitt.edu
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Campus Life
First-Year Experience (FYE) The Office of First-Year Experience (FYE) strives to provide new and transfer students with a variety of programs and services that assist new students and families with the transition to college life. FYE programs including New and Transfer Student Orientation and the First Year Success Series are designed to help students get connected, engage in activities outside the classroom, and build relationships with their peers, faculty, and staff. The First Year Mentors are upperclass student leaders who work in FYE and assist new students through programming and mentorship. In addition to student programs, FYE strives to connect parents and families through many of the programs and events held over the summer and during orientation. The FYE office is part of the Office of Student Life and includes Commuter Student Programs and Transfer Student Programs. You can check out FYE at fye.pitt.edu or visit 119 of the William Pitt Union. 22
PITT ARTS PITT ARTS (pittarts.pitt.edu), has been connecting Pitsburgh campus in Oakland students to the cultural life of Pittsburgh since it was founded in 1997. PITT ARTS sponsors over 110 free student outings for Pitt undergraduates each year, including trips to the symphony, opera, ballet, gallery and museum exhibits, hands-on workshops, jazz concerts, independent films, and much more. The program also provides on-campus art experiences, free museum visits for Pitt students, as well as discounted cultural opportunities for staff, faculty, undergraduate and graduate students. PITT ARTS engages more than 50,000 Pitt students, including repeaters, every single year, and is an active partner in the Outside the Classroom Curriculum.
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Outside the Classroom Curriculum: Developing the Whole Student
The Outside the Classroom Curriculum (OCC) provides Pitt students with an incredible array of programs, activities, services, and events that help students connect to each other and the University, assist students in developing skills and attributes that are absolutely necessary for success in today’s marketplace, and help students grow as unique individuals. Students who complete the Outside the Classroom Curriculum (OCC) are eligible to receive a PittAdvantage grant of up to $1,500 to cover expenses associated with unpaid internships or study abroad experiences.
In addition, students who complete the requirements of the OCC will be eligible for induction into the OCC Honorary Society. These students will enjoy invitations to special events with employers, continued leadership development, and receptions with campus leaders. Upon graduation, students who successfully complete the OCC will receive a green cord of distinction and be able to confidently articulate and demonstrate tangible accomplishments to graduate schools, professional schools, and prospective employers.
There are 10 goal areas in OCC in which students should experience growth. They are: • Appreciation of the Arts • Career Preparation • Communication Skills • Global and Cultural Awareness • Initiative and Drive
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• Leadership Development • Pitt Pride • Sense of Self • Service to Others • Wellness
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Academic Resources
Pitt has many excellent resources to help students achieve academically, and many of these resources can be found on the list of links on the Parent Web site at parents.pitt.edu.
support in their studies. First and foremost, students should take advantage of their professors’ office hours, which are at least four hours each week outside of class time.
One of the most important things your student should do is work closely with an academic advisor within their school who will guide them through their first year here at Pitt. After the student selects a major, he or she is then assigned a department-specific advisor who will provide insight within that department. If a student takes on multiple majors/minors, he or she will have multiple advisors to see that all of the requirements for each program are satisfied.
Students requiring more specific assistance should seek out a personal tutor from the Academic Resource Center (ARC). ARC provides one-on-one and small group peer tutoring in the most academically rigorous courses offered to first and second-year students. Two tutoring options are available for students. First, ARC offers individual tutoring appointments from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every weekday. Students are able to schedule up to two hour-long appointments per week, but these appointments fill up quickly during exam weeks, so it is important to plan ahead. The second option is a drop-in tutoring program in the
There are many academic resource programs in place on campus for those students requiring some additional 26
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residence halls. Four nights per week, ARC provides tutors who work right in the residence hall study lounges. Students do not need to make appointments in advance for this option. This flexible option allows students to meet with tutors in small study groups or to get quick clarification when they do not need an entire hour of tutoring. ARC also offers individual study skills consultations as well as workshops
focused on developing active study habits, note-taking skills, test preparation, reading strategies, time management, and planning for midterms and final exams. Pitt also has the Math Assistance Center, the Writing Center, and a physics and chemistry “fishbowl,” where upperclassmen and graduate students are stationed for answering subject-specific questions.
See the locations and phone numbers for the academic advising centers in Pitt’s undergraduate programs below: College of Business Administration Academic Advising 2600 Sennott Square 412-383-8811 College of General Studies Fourth Floor, Cathedral of Learning 412-624-6600 Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences Academic Resource Center (ARC) G01 Gardner Steel Conference Center 412-648-7920 Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences Advising Center 201 Thackeray Hall 412-624-6444 Hillman Library 3960 Forbes Avenue Pittsburgh, Pa 15260 412-648-3330 www.universityparent.com/pitt
Math Assistance Center 215 O’Hara Student Center 412-624-8375 School of Health and Rehabilitation 4022 Forbes Tower 412-383-6565 School of Information Sciences 504 Information Sciences Building 412-624-5143 School of Nursing 239 Victoria Building 412-624-4586 Swanson School of Engineering 152 Benedum Hall 412-624-9825 Writing Center 317B O’Hara Student Center 412-624-6556 27
Financial Information
Resources are available to help families find answers to questions about online billing and payment services, becoming an Authorized Payer on your student’s account, and helping your student to find employment. Billing and Payment. There are no paper bills at the University of Pittsburgh. PittPAY is our easy-to-use, secure Web site that provides a convenient way for students and their Authorized Payers to view their bills and make payments to student accounts 24 hours a day. A step-by-step checklist to help you navigate PittPAY is available on the following page. You can also access the PittPAY User Guide and our Billing and Due Date Schedule on the Student Payment Center Web site at www.payments.pitt.edu. Authorized Payers. We cannot discuss your student’s bill or account details unless your student has set you up as an Authorized Payer in PittPAY. Your student can authorize an unlimited number of parents, guardians, spouses, and others as their Authorized Payers. Each one receives an e-mail when a bill is posted 28
in PittPAY and can view the student’s account and make online payments with a credit card or electronic check. Payment Plans. Students or one of their Authorized Payers can enroll in an optional Payment Plan in PittPAY to spread out the costs on the student account over a series of regular installments. Depending on the date you enroll in a Payment Plan, you may be eligible for up to six installments for fall or spring terms, or up to twelve installments for an annual plan covering both fall and spring. Who to Contact. Always include your student’s seven-digit student ID number to help us assist you quickly and accurately. • Contact the Student Payment Center at payments@pitt.edu or 412-624-7520 for questions about bills and due dates, making payments, setting up Authorized Payers, and enrolling in Direct Deposit and the optional Payment Plan. • Contact Admissions and Financial Aid at oafa@pitt.edu or 412-624-7488 for questions about financial aid. University of Pittsburgh
Student Responsibilities Log into PittPAY today at My Pitt (my.pitt.edu) and select PittPAY Login If you don’t know your Pitt username or password, call the Technology Help Desk for assistance at 412-624-HELP. 1. Create your Authorized Payers. We cannot discuss your student account or eBills with anyone except the Authorized Payers you have set up in PittPAY. 2. Sign up for Direct Deposit. You are required to have a Direct Deposit account in PittPAY so we can return money to you if necessary when you have a credit balance on your student account. 3. You or an Authorized Payer can enroll in a Payment Plan if you want to pay your student account balance in monthly installments. You may qualify for up to six installments for fall and/or spring terms, depending on the date you enroll in a Payment Plan. 4. Complete your Master Promissory Note (MPN) for your Direct Stafford Loans at www.studentloans.gov 5. Complete your Entrance Counseling for your Direct Stafford Loans at www.studentloans.gov 6. Complete your Master Promissory Note and Entrance Interview for your Perkins Loan at www.ecsi.net/promw2 7. Complete your Entrance Interview, Master Promissory Note, and associated disclosures for Nursing and Pharmacy Loans at www.ecsi.net/promw2 www.universityparent.com/pitt
QUESTIONS? Visit our Web site at www.payments.pitt.edu or e-mail us at payments@pitt.edu. Student Payment Center G-7 Thackeray Hall Monday–Thursday 8:30 a.m.–4:45 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.–4:45 p.m.
Authorized Payer Instructions From student-info.pitt.edu, log into PittPAY using the login name and password provided by your student. 1. Read the Message Board in PittPAY. It’s the first screen you will see with important detailed information about payment plans, making payments, and the detailed eBill and due date schedule. 2. Select eBill from the PittPAY menu to see the current eBill for your student. As an Authorized Payer, you receive a courtesy e-mail when a new eBill is posted in PittPAY. A new eBill is posted only when your student is registered for a new term or has an unpaid balance. If the account balance is zero, you will not receive an eBill. Contact the Technology Help Desk at 412-624-HELP if you have problems viewing the eBill. 3. Select Current Account Details to view the most up-to-date transaction details on your student’s account. Activity that occurred on the account after the most recent eBill was posted to PittPAY is included here. 4. Select Make Payment to pay online by eCheck for no fee. If you pay by debit or credit card, our vendor will charge you a non-refundable 2.75% service fee for each debit or credit card payment. 29
6. Select Direct Deposit if you will be a Parent PLUS loan borrower. If your PLUS loan creates a credit balance on your student’s account, the credit will be refunded to you and deposited to the U.S. bank account you indicate for Direct Deposit. All other refunds will be directly deposited to your student’s bank account. 7. Complete your Parent PLUS Loan Master Promissory Note (MPN) at www.studentloans.gov. Your PLUS loan cannot be applied to the student’s account until you have completed your MPN. 5. Select Payment Plan if you want to pay off your student’s account in installments. You may qualify for up to six installments for fall and/or spring terms, depending on the date you enroll. You must be an Authorized Payer to enroll in a payment plan for your student.
My Student’s ID number: ______________________________ MyPittPAYLoginName: ____________________________
Student Employment There are three different types of employment that a student can obtain: a federal work-study position, a student employment position, and an off-campus job (which could be a federal work-study position). Federal Work-Study is considered financial aid. In order to receive the funds, the student must work in a position classified by the University as a federal work-study job. Most of these jobs exist on campus and some off campus. Students who are eligible for the Federal Work-Study Program (FWSP) are notified of their award as part of their financial aid award notification. If they wish to have the opportunity to be employed through the program, they must accept their FWSP award on the PeopleSoft Student Services Center financial aid award page for Aid Year 2016. Students who accept this 30
award will receive additional information about the FWSP during the summer months. The second type of student worker position on campus is the student employment position. These positions are funded by the hiring department, and a work-study grant is not required. Many departments on campus hire students in a variety of capacities. Students seeking a position on campus should consult the PittSource database located at www.pittsource.com. The third possibility for a part-time job is to approach the many retailers or restaurants in the immediate Oakland area. Many students are employed this way.
University of Pittsburgh
Career Resources The University of Pittsburgh is deeply committed to ensuring that each student has the resources needed to develop a career plan and the necessary support needed when it comes time to search for internships, apply to graduate or professional school, or pursue full-time career opportunities. Career Exploration Career consultants in the Office of Career Development and Placement Assistance (CDPA) work closely with students to help them develop a career action plan, which could include assistance in choosing a major, learning how to build a network of professional contacts, and learning how to navigate a career fair. Career consultants also help students to develop résumés and cover letters and provide assistance with interview preparation.
Internship Preparation CDPA offers an Internship Guarantee to help University of Pittsburgh students gain a competitive edge and prepare for life after graduation. This program includes an initiative that guarantees every undergraduate student who participates in CDPA’s Internship Prep Program placement in an internship or experiential learning opportunity during their undergraduate career. In addition to encouraging your student to take advantage of this preparatory program, CDPA welcomes your assistance in identifying opportunities to recruit Pitt interns. Please visit the CDPA Web site www.internships.pitt.edu or call 412-383-4473 to speak with a member of the internship team.
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X marks the intersection of everything you need. Port Authority’s hippest bus routes connect riders to all the essentials. Great grocery stores. Art house theaters and boutiques, bars and big names in retail. There’s the 64 LawrencevilleWaterfront, with Bloomfield, Shadyside and Squirrel Hill in between. Or try the 75 Ellsworth. Start at SouthSide Works, hit up Oakland and the Shadyside shops. Then end at Bakery Square, where there’s always something new opening up. And both routes connect to each other, the busway and other ways to get Downtown or around town.
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Employer Engagement Employment Development Specialists in the Office of Career Development and Placement Assistance (CDPA) work closely with recruiters from all sectors, including public corporations, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, and government entities, to help Pitt students pursuing careers in any field find employment opportunities. CDPA sponsors career fairs in the fall and spring, on-campus interview sessions, job shadowing, networking events with employers and alumni, and a variety of career preparation workshops. We encourage you to stay engaged in your student’s career exploration by visiting the CDPA Web site at careers.pitt.edu. FutureLinks FutureLinks is an online job and event posting system managed by CDPA, offering students important resources throughout their Pitt experience. Featuring part-time work and internship opportunities, FutureLinks is also a primary destination for students as they search for full-time positions after graduation. To access FutureLinks, students should log in to the Pitt portal at my.pitt.edu, and click on the FutureLinks link on the right side of the page. In addition to FutureLinks, students seeking on-campus employment should also 32
consult the PittSource database by visiting www.pittsource.com. Key Events Your Student Should Attend Fall Career Fair: September 24, 2015 Petersen Events Center
Representatives from over 240 employers looking to fill full-time, part-time and internship positions will attend the 2015 Fall Career Fair. Recruiters from nonprofits, corporations, and government agencies will be present to discuss job opportunities and network with Pitt students. Majors & Minors Expo: October 2015 William Pitt Union Main Floor Students can meet with representatives from academic departments across campus to gather great information about majors, minors, and various career fields. University of Pittsburgh
Technology Resources Student Technology Resources from Computing Services and Systems Development (CSSD) We’re with you 24/7. Visit technology.pitt.edu to learn more about our services. Like us on facebook.com/pittcssd or follow us on Twitter @pittcssd. My Pitt: Tuition, Bills, and Grades Explore My Pitt (my.pitt.edu) where students can read e-mail, print a class schedule, check grades, register for classes, pay a tuition bill, download software, and more. 24/7 Help The Technology Help Desk is open 24/7, every day. Call 412-624-HELP [4357], e-mail helpdesk@pitt.edu, or chat online at technology.pitt.edu. Technical Support for Students Technical consultants provide hands-on computer support to students. Service is available by appointment or at two convenient walk-in locations: the Towers Lobby and the University Store on Fifth. Software CSSD provides a broad selection of software to students at little or no cost, including Microsoft Office, anti-virus tools, and laptop security software. Be sure to browse available titles at technology.pitt.edu before arriving on campus. Students can also download software online at My Pitt (my.pitt.edu). Emergency Notification Service (ENS) ENS will be used to communicate with subscribers through voice, text, and e-mail messages, as deemed appropriate in the event of an emergency. Students can subscribe at My Pitt (my.pitt.edu). Note: Students may include a parent’s contact information when subscribing to ENS. www.universityparent.com/pitt
Safe Computing Computrace LoJack can help recover lost or stolen laptops. Symantec EndPoint Protection and Malwarebytes guard against viruses and spyware. Download these and other security tools at My Pitt (my.pitt.edu). PittNet Network Students can easily connect to PittNet, Pitt’s campus-wide high-speed network. Residence hall rooms feature both wired and wireless connections, so all your devices are covered. Wireless is also available in all classrooms and academic buildings. Campus Computing Labs Students may use any of our six computing labs. We have Windows, Mac, and Linux workstations with more than 150 software programs. Some labs are open 24 hours, so students can work anytime. Students can bring their own tablet or laptop, recharge a cell phone battery, or study with classmates while in the labs. Campus Printing Campus Printing enables students to send print jobs from any location to a central print queue and then stop by one of our many convenient print stations on campus to print it. Check technology.pitt. edu/print for location details! Make sure to download and install the printing client available through the Software Download Service at My Pitt (my.pitt.edu). Back it up with Box Students receive 50 GB of free cloud storage with Box (pitt.box.com) to make backing up files a snap. Box also makes it simple to share folders and collaborate on group projects. Campus Connect Students may subscribe to receive text messages and e-mails about upcoming events on campus at my.pitt.edu. 33
Study Abroad Link in with Lync Students can use Microsoft Lync, a collaborative communications tool, to see if classmates are online, start a video chat, and share a screen to work together on a class project. Download Lync for free at My Pitt. Learn with Lynda Student can access online technology training 24/7 at lynda.pitt.edu. View thousands of training videos on topics such as Excel, Java, Web design, animation, blogging, photography, video editing, and much more!
The Study Abroad Office provides many tips about traveling to a foreign country, such as advising about passports, managing health issues and disabilities and insurance requirements abroad.
Pitt Mobile App With Pitt Mobile, students can do more from their smartphone. Use the interactive campus map to locate buildings and services, access CourseWeb and My Academics, view computing lab availability, see when the libraries and dining halls are open, and check campus event calendars. Get the free Pitt Mobile App for iPhone and iPad via the App Store or use Google Play on Android devices. Illegal File Sharing Sharing copyrighted music, movies, software, and other files on PittNet is illegal, and could result in penalties from the University Student Judicial System as well as legal action by the copyright owner. So don’t do it! Learn more at technology.pitt.edu/copyright. Acceptable Computing Access and Use University policy establishes restrictions regarding the access and use of University technology resources such as computers, computer systems, networks, services, storage, and e-mail. Students, faculty, and staff are obligated to protect University computing systems from illegal or damaging actions. For details, please read Acceptable Computing Access and Use at technology.pitt.edu/ituse. 34
Pitt offers many opportunities for students to study abroad for a full term, year, summer, or spring break. The Study Abroad Office Web site (abroad.pitt.edu) provides a wealth of information about the opportunities that exist and the process students and parents go through to embark on these incredible journeys. Studying abroad requires careful planning, so if you think there is a possibility that your student may travel internationally, please begin the planning process early. Pitt has language and culture programs but also offers experiences designed for business and engineering majors as well. University of Pittsburgh
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Privacy Laws
Two federal laws, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, commonly known as FERPA, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, commonly known as HIPAA, protect the privacy of students attending the University of Pittsburgh and place restrictions on who can receive information about a student. Under federal law, unlike during your student’s high school years, the rights of access and privacy in records belong primarily to the student rather than to the parents. Therefore, parents and guardians may have limited access to their student’s personal records unless the student grants permission for parents or guardians to receive such information. Students may grant parents or guardians access to financial records by designating 36
them as an “authorized payer” through PittPAY in the student portal system (my.pitt.edu > PittPAY Login > Authorized Payers). Students may grant parents or guardians access to academic and certain other University-maintained records by completing a Waiver to Release Educational Records form on the Office of the University Registrar’s Web site (registrar.pitt.edu/ferpa.html) and submitting the form to the appropriate records custodian. Students must grant parents written permission to receive confidential information about their student health records. Please visit studentaffairs.pitt.edu/shsreleaseinfo for more information. University of Pittsburgh
Student Code of Conduct Pitt Promise: A Commitment to Civility The University of Pittsburgh is committed to the advancement of learning and service to society. This is best accomplished in an atmosphere of mutual respect and civility, self-restraint, concern for others, and academic integrity. Students are asked to accept the obligation to live by these common values and commit themselves to principles of behavior that contribute to a civil campus environment and to support this behavior in others. Students recite The Pitt Promise at each New and Transfer Student Orientation as detailed below:
As a Pitt Student I will embrace the concept of a civil community which abhors violence, theft and exploitation of others; I will commit myself to the pursuit of knowledge with personal integrity and academic honesty; I will respect the sanctity of the learning environment and avoid disruptive and deceitful behavior toward other members of the campus community;
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I will support a culture of diversity by respecting the rights of those who differ from myself; I will contribute to the development of a caring community where compassion for others and freedom of thought and expression are valued; I will honor, challenge and contribute to the scholarly heritage left by those who preceded me and work to leave this a better place for those who follow.
By endorsing these common principles, I accept a moral obligation to behave in ways that contribute to a civil campus environment and resolve to support this behavior in others. This commitment to civility is my promise to the University of Pittsburgh and its community of scholars. More information on The Pitt Promise can be found at www.studentaffairs. pitt.edu/pittpromise
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University of Pittsburgh students are required to abide by the Student Code of Conduct (studentaffairs.pitt.edu/ studentconduct), which outlines nonacademic behavioral standards for the University community. The Code of Conduct applies to all undergraduate, graduate, and professional students who are registered at the University of Pittsburgh Oakland campus. The University’s regional campuses have Codes of Conduct designed for their individual communities. When there is a violation of the Code of Conduct, referrals related to the violation are filed with the Office of Student Conduct. Upon receipt of a properly filed
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referral, the Office of Student Conduct will notify the accused student by e-mail and/ or mail that a referral has been filed. This notification also will direct the student to attend a meeting with the Student Conduct Officer or his/her designee, a Resident Director, or the Student Conduct Peer Review Board. Failure to comply with this directive may result in sanctions being imposed without the student’s input or the creation of a judicial hold on the student’s account. When the meeting is held in the student’s absence, the student will be notified of the imposed sanctions. Failure to complete imposed sanctions will result in a judicial hold. A judicial hold will block the student’s ability to register for classes and/or acquire University transcripts and
University of Pittsburgh
will remain active until the student attends the required meeting.
while protecting the rights of University community members.
In matters that may result in suspension or dismissal, the University Judicial Board, under the direction of the Office of Student Conduct, may conduct a hearing, make a report, and recommend sanctions, when appropriate. All meeting/ hearings conducted by the Office of Student Conduct and/or its designees will provide due process for referred students
The Office of Student Conduct will notify parents and guardians in writing when a student, under 21 years old, has been found responsible for an alcohol or drug violation. This notification does not apply to students who are sanctioned solely for being “knowingly present� during a drug or alcohol violation.
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To reinforce the student’s ability to accept responsibility for Code violations, The Office of Student Conduct encourages parents/guardians to discuss any Code violations with the student, and to assess whether the student requires the parent’s or guardian’s assistance. Parents or guardians are welcome to contact staff in the Office of Residence Life, 412-648-1200, or the Office of Student Conduct, 412-648-7910, for more information. The University of Pittsburgh, as an educational institution and as an employer, values equality of opportunity, human dignity, and racial or ethnic and cultural diversity. Accordingly, the University prohibits and will not engage in discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, or status as a disabled veteran or a veteran of the Vietnam era. Further, the University will continue to take affirmative steps 40
to support and advance these values consistent with the University’s mission. This policy applies to admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs and activities. This is a commitment made by the University and is in accordance with federal, state, and or local laws and regulations. For information on University equal opportunity and affirmative action programs and complaint or grievance procedures, please contact the University of Pittsburgh; Office of Affirmative Action, Diversity, and Inclusion; Carol W. Mohamed, Director (and Title IX, 504 and ADA Coordinator); 412-648-7860; 500 Craig Hall; 200 S. Craig St.; Pittsburgh, PA 15260; cmohamed@pitt.edu Students Rights and Responsibilities The University has a number of official policies affecting students. For complete and current text on all University policies, please see bc.pitt.edu/policies.
University of Pittsburgh
The information that follows summarizes several key University-wide policies affecting undergraduate students, but students are also responsible for being cognizant of those University, school, and departmental regulations relevant to their programs of study. Academic Integrity Students have the responsibility to be honest and to conduct themselves in an ethical manner while pursuing academic studies. Students have the right to be treated by faculty in a fair and conscientious manner in accordance with the ethical standards generally recognized within the academic community (as well as those recognized within the profession). Should a student be accused of a breach of academic integrity or have questions regarding faculty responsibilities, procedural safeguards including provisions of due process, have been
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designed to protect student rights. These may be found in Guidelines on Academic Integrity: Student and Faculty Obligations and Hearing Procedures at www.provost.pitt.edu/info/ai1.html. Student Judicial System The Office of Student Conduct provides the framework by which members of the University of Pittsburgh community may address alleged student violations of the Code of Conduct. Student Conduct is a neutral body, taking neither the position of the referring party or the accused, but providing a fair process and education for both parties. The Undergraduate Bulletin has detailed information about the University and its policies. Visit bulletins.pitt.edu/undergrad/ index.html. This information is updated frequently.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q
When or how will my son or daughter receive a fall term bill? When will it be due?
A
There are no paper bills at the University of Pittsburgh. Monthly eBills (electronic bills) are posted in PittPAY around the 20th of each month and are always due on the 17th of the following month. Students receive their first eBill on the scheduled billing date after they register for classes for a term. A detailed Billing and Due Date Schedule is available at www.payments.pitt.edu/ documents/ebills71612.pdf. Students are notified by e-mail at their Pitt e-mail address each time a new eBill is posted in PittPAY. Parents can access their students’ eBills by becoming an Authorized Payer in PittPAY. Students initiate this process by creating Authorized Payers in PittPAY and assigning each one a separate login ID and temporary password. Students, log into www.my.pitt.edu, then select PittPAY Login, then Authorize Payers, then follow the instructions. Once the student has created the Authorized Payer, the Authorized Payer can login to PittPAY at student-info.pitt.edu, and then select Authorized Payers Login to PittPAY. When you first login to PittPAY, you will be asked to change the temporary password your student assigned to you to a new password that only you know. Visit www.payments.pitt.edu for additional information about PittPAY, eBills, due dates, Authorized Payers, Payment Plans, Direct Deposit, and more!
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Q
When is Family Weekend?
A
Family Weekend will occur on October 2–4, 2015. You can check out more information regarding this event at familyweekend.pitt.edu.
Q
What kinds of internship opportunities are available at Pitt?
A
Pitt offers many internship and cooperative education programs with a variety of companies both inside and outside the greater Pittsburgh area. The Office of Career Development and Placement Assistance provides oneon-one assistance to help students from all undergraduate majors find a suitable match with their interests. To get started, encourage your student to visit www.internships.pitt.edu to review the Internship Prep Program and the current workshop schedule. University of Pittsburgh
Q
What is the University Honors College like?
A
The University of Pittsburgh’s Honors College is unlike many typical university honors programs. Here at Pitt there is no such thing as membership in the Honors College, and all undergraduate students are eligible to take advantage of its many opportunities. Some highlights include supplemental advising, research and community engagement fellowships, special events, honors housing, honors courses, and the Bachelor of Philosophy degree. Honors courses are more challenging and more demanding than regular courses, but they also tend to be more stimulating and provide more information than do regular courses. So, should a student take an honors course? The answer clearly depends on which student you are asking and whether they have a passion for the topic at hand. They should also consider what other courses and activities are scheduled for that semester and plan accordingly. In other words, students can consult with their advisor to determine whether to take honors courses, which ones, and when. Students who are interested in becoming involved in any aspect of the University Honors College should contact any of the Honors College advisors at honorscollege.pitt.edu/advising-staff.
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Q
Does Pitt have opportunities for undergraduate research?
A
s an internationally recognized institution for cutting-edge research, the University of Pittsburgh offers students many exciting opportunities to work alongside distinguished faculty who are leaders in their fields. Students interested in undergraduate research will have no problem finding a project any time of the year that fits their interests. Undergraduates can enrich their academic experience by participating in research as early as their freshman year through programs like First Experiences in Research. Students can explore research opportunities in the arts and humanities, the social sciences, the natural sciences, and the University’s School of Medicine. Many research experiences are initiated by the Office of Undergraduate Research (www.as.pitt.edu/our) as well as the University Honors College (www.honorscollege.pitt.edu). Students are also encouraged to speak with their professors about research opportunities through academic departments.
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Q
What are Living Learning Communities?
A
Living Learning Communities (LLCs) are specialized living environments that help to connect students in and out of the classroom learning. Each LLC is unique, but all are centered on a distinctive academic or thematic interest. Students who choose to live in an LLC have a direct connection to their classroom experience, intentional events and/or programs and dedicated staff members working to make the community a success. LLCs include housing opportunities for first-year and upperclass students in the following communities: First-Year Communities: • Appreciation of the Arts • Cultura Latino Americana • Emerging Leaders • Engineering • Global Village • Health Sciences • Healthy U • Honors • Innovation and Entrepreneurship • Nursing • One Pitt, One Planet (Sustainability) • Pitt Business • ROTC • Service to Others • Women Lead Upperclass Communities: • Engineering • Health Sciences • Honors • Leadership • Multicultural • Pitt Business • ROTC • Service to Others In order to be considered for an LLC, students must apply within their Housing and Dining application. For details on our LLCs, please go to studentaffairs.pitt.edu/ reslife/llc or e-mail reslife@pitt.edu. 44
University of Pittsburgh
Q
What do I do if my student has an IEP or a Section 504 plan?
A
Once your student has been admitted to the University of Pittsburgh, he or she should follow these steps to register with Disability Resources and Services (DRS): 1. Submit documentation of his or her disability. He or she may deliver it in person to 140 William Pitt Union, fax it 412-624-3346, or mail it to the DRS office at: University of Pittsburgh Disability Resources and Services 140 William Pitt Union 3959 Fifth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15260
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2. Note: If your student submitted disability documentation as part of their application for admission to the University of Pittsburgh, please check to make sure that DRS has received a copy for his or her file. 3. Set up an appointment with the appropriate disability specialist for an initial review of your student’s documentation. At this meeting, the specialist will be able to discuss his or her documents, needs, and educational goals. 4. Meet with the disability specialist every term to review the effectiveness of services received, to update information, or to discuss changes in service.
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Q
How easy is it to get home during the term and over breaks?
A
There are many ways to travel home. First, the Pitt campus is very close to downtown Pittsburgh, so the Amtrak train station, Megabus and the Greyhound bus terminals are easily accessible. Pittsburgh International Airport is a 45-minute free bus ride away with a Pitt ID. Locally, students can ride the Port Authority of Allegheny County public transportation system free of charge with their Pitt IDs. For the Thanksgiving, winter, and spring recesses, the University of Pittsburgh offers the buses home for the holidays option to select destinations in Pennsylvania, New York, Maryland and Washington, D.C. areas. Greatly reduced one-way and round-trip fares are available. See the “Buses Home for the Holidays� Web site (pc.pitt.edu/transportation/buseshome.html) for more information.
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University of Pittsburgh
Q
Q
A
A
What do I say to my son or daughter if he or she has experienced a traumatic event (e.g., unexpected death of a loved one, physical assault, etc.)?
Listen to your student and normalize the feelings expressed — shock, fear, anxiety, confusion, anger, etc. Encourage your student to call the University Counseling Center 412-648-7930, and talk with a counselor. Counseling will help your student to deal with the feelings that are interfering with daily functioning.
Q
I want to make a counseling appointment for my student but was told that I could not. Why not?
A
Students are considered adults and are, therefore, required to schedule their own appointments. In addition, students who make their own appointments are already beginning the first steps toward a positive therapeutic relationship by demonstrating their readiness to engage in therapy.
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I’ve been trying to encourage my student to make a counseling appointment, but he/she doesn’t want to go. How can I encourage him/ her to get the needed help?
After listening to your adult student’s thoughts and feelings in a sensitive, nonjudgmental way, you can instill hope by helping him or her to realize that there are options for help and the experience will not always appear so difficult. Point out that help is available and that you believe that using resources like counseling is a sign of strength and maturity rather than of weakness or failure. Give information about the counseling service and prepare him or her for what to expect. If a student is simply not ready to use professional counseling services, you can suggest other resources like residence life staff, chaplains, friends, or other trusted adults as a first step in addressing concerns. You can always consult with a University Counseling Center professional about your specific concerns in wanting your student to see a counselor.
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PITT Area Resources
For more area resources visit www.universityparent.com/pitt
Places to Live Delta Property Management 5700 Centre Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (724) 719-2163 www.rentdelta.com Please see ad on p. 3
Where to Eat Hofbrauhaus Pittsburgh
2705 S. Water St. Pittsburgh, PA 15203 (412) 224-2328 www.hofbrauhauspittsburgh.com Please see ad on p. 10
Mitchell’s Fish Market
185 W. Waterfront Dr. Homestead, PA 15120 (412) 476-8844 www.mitchellsfishmarket.com Please see ad on p. 41
Places to Stay Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh Shadyside Oakland
Hyatt House Pittsburgh Bloomfield/Shadyside
5308 Liberty Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15224 (412) 683-3113 www.courtyardshadyside.com Please see ad on p. 39
5335 Baum Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15224 (412)621-9900 hyatthousepittsburgh bloomfieldshadyside.com Please see ad on p. 43
Friendship Suites
Mansions on Fifth
Hampton Inn Pittsburgh University/Medical Center
Residence Inn Pittsburgh University/Medical Center
301 Stratford Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15232 (412) 392-1935 FriendshipSuites.com Please see ad on p. 2
3315 Hamlet St. Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (412) 681-1000 Please see ad on p. 3
Family Weekend 2015
Office of Student Life 130 William Pitt Union Pittsburgh, PA 15260 (412) 648-1074 www.familyweekend.pitt.edu
3896 Bigelow Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (412) 621-2200 www.marriott.com/pitro Please see ad on p. 9
Where to Shop Giant Eagle Market District
What to See & Do
5105 Fifth Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15232 (412) 381-5105 www.mansionsonfifth.com Please see ad on p. 15
5550 Centre Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15232 (412) 681-1500 www.marketdistrict.com Please see ad on p. 21
UniversityParent E-News www.UniversityParent.com Please see ad on p. 45
UniversityParent College Laundry Bag
www.amazon.com/gp/product/ b00k0ustye Please see ad on p. 47
UniversityParent’s Guide to Supporting your Student’s Freshman Year www.amazon.com/GuideSupporting-Your-StudentsFreshman/dp/0692027440 Please see ad on p. 3
Student Services Pittsburgh Oral Surgery, P.C.
5820 Centre Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (412) 661-7690 www.pittsburghoralsurgery.com Visit us at our Centre Avenue office in Shadyside if you have oral surgical or wisdom teeth issues. Please see ad on p. 18
Port Authority of Allegheny County
534 Smithfield St. Pittsburgh, PA 15222 (412) 442-2000 www.PortAuthority.org Please see ad on p. 31
Student Health Services Pittsburgh
5th Floor Medical Arts Building 3708 5th Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15360 (412) 383-1800 www.studenthealth.pitt.edu Please see ad on p. 19
For advertising inquiries, please contact UniversityParent at reachcollegeparents.com or email: ads@universityparent.com
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