These practical suggestions are the basis for academic success.
-
Go to class . Course material from lectures and class discussions is not covered in the textbook and course web notes.
-
Read your syllabus . The syllabus outlines required reading materials, assignment and test dates, and grading scale.
-
Get to know your instructor . See your instructor during office hours if you experience difficulties with the material.
-
Do your assignments . Don't procrastinate.
-
Know when to withdraw from a class or the entire term . You may find you cannot complete a course or the semester after the end of the add/drop period. Follow the appropriate withdrawal procedures. If you are receiving financial aid, also contact the Financial Aid Office for their advice.
-
Challenge yourself . The University Honors College courses challenge and demand the student's initiative for high intellectual achievement.
If you are having difficulties with classes, facing personal problems, or need financial assistance:
-
McCarl Center for Non-Traditional Student Success Located on the 4th floor of the Cathedral of Learning, provides programs and services to promote and support the academic success, career development, and personal growth of CGS students.
-
Career Services Help with selecting a major, exploring career options, and searching for an internship or job. Available in the McCarl Center.
-
Financial Aid Scholarship information and helpful links.
-
The Academic Resource Center Help with basic study skills issues such as time management, note taking, test preparation, and textbook comprehension.
-
Academic Support Hotline Contact them at 412-624-2052 or kverdone@pitt.edu if you spot a student in trouble. This helpline is for concerned advisors, professors, and parents.
-
The Math Assistance Center Provides tutoring help from algebra through calculus.
-
The Writing Center Ways to improve your writing style.
-
The Counseling Center Professional and confidential help if you are unmotivated, feeling depressed, or having trouble coping with something that has happened in your life.
Involve yourself in student governance, social, and outreach opportunities.
-
The CGS Students Government provides sudents with an opportunity to have a voice on campus. The "First Degree" newspaper, the evening student honorary society Alpha Sigma Lambda, the law and justice fraternity Lambda Alpha Epsilon, and the Public Administration Organization are all sponsored by CGS Student Government.
-
Student Organizations If you have a special interest in an activity and would like to become involved, see if there is an organization for you at Pitt.
-
Student Volunteer Outreach To volunteer on campus or in the community, check out the opportunities with Student Volunteer Outreach.