Welcome to your new favorite place, freshmen! I hope you learn to love Pitt and all its quirks as much as I do, and I hope that it starts feeling like home sooner rather than later. In efforts to make that happen, I’ve compiled just a few dos and don’ts to make existing on and getting around campus just a little bit easier.
1. You’re already a few class sessions in, but you can still scope out where the outlets are in all your classrooms and claim the seats nearest to them NOW.
2. Each building has a different temperature that changes every season, so wear removable layers to classes accordingly. Outside might be 80 degrees, but Cathy’s heart is sometimes cold and frigid. (Pro-tip: Cathy is what we all call the Cathedral of Learning.)
3. Don’t walk up the steps to Towers Patio just to get to the Quad. Save the energy for the hill and just use the Quad’s entrances instead.
4. Towers Lobby during tabling season is actually a really good place to learn what’s happening on campus; you might find something you want to get involved with on one of those flyers that you’re just going to throw out as soon as you pass a trashcan.
5. We probably only have two good weeks of sun left, so take advantage of it and sit on the lawns of the Cathedral, Soldiers and Sailors, or Schenley Plaza!
6. Download the Ride Systems app or check pittshuttles.com to track the 10a schedule when you need it.
7. Just take the steps to the third floor of the Cathedral. It will never get easier for your legs, but it’ll take way less time than waiting for an elevator.
8. Lawrence and Posvar are connected on the second floors. Remember that especially when it’s raining/snowing.
9. The fastest way to and from your classes is through courtyards and lawns. Cut through instead of going all the way around buildings.
10. Bonus safety tip: Always look left before crossing Fifth and don’t stand on the very edge of the curb while you wait. We’re pretty sure it’s a myth that the city of Pittsburgh will pay your tuition if you get hit by a bus, so don’t risk it.
Photo credit: Her Campus Pitt Instagram and 2