Dear Pitt Students,
Last year, we began a communication channel called “Cup of Joe with Joe” to allow me to bring important academic updates and information in person to all Pitt undergraduate students. I look forward to the day we can again share a cup of coffee on campus, but in the meantime, there is a lot to catch up on!
To begin, I would like to remind you that the spring term add/drop period ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on Friday, Feb. 5. Also, the deadline for processing late withdrawals from fall term courses is also on Feb. 5. Please contact your advisor as soon as possible if you need to make any changes to your spring schedule or if you would like to discuss exercising the late withdrawal option for any of your courses from the fall term.
Looking ahead, I encourage you to ask yourself: “How can I make the most of this term?”
The answer to this question will be different for everyone. You all have your own academic goals, are navigating your own personal challenges, and have your own unique strengths that you can leverage. So, it is up to you to identify what you need to be successful and to take advantage of the resources that are available to support you.
Here are some ideas to help get you started:
- I miss attending class in person.
In the Elevated Risk and Guarded Risk operational postures, many classes allow for in-person experiences. Find out if, how, and why you should attend class in person.
- I need a place to study other than my room.
Looking for study spaces on campus? We’ve got you covered.
- I would like to find activities outside of class that help me feel more connected to Pitt and campus life.
Use the Catalog of Opportunities to find activities like events, internships, research opportunities, etc., and to keep track of those activities for credit in the Outside the Classroom Curriculum (OCC), PittGlobal, Pitt Business OCC, University Honors College OCC, or to pursue an interdisciplinary transcript distinction.
Also, check out the Student Affairs website and Pittwire Live for even more great opportunities to engage.
- I want to connect with a mentor and/or the broader Pitt network.
Pitt Commons, our personalized online hub for mentoring and networking, recently surpassed 10,300 users. Join a group or discussion, explore the community, and connect with members of the Pitt network who are ready to provide short-term and long-term mentoring support.
- I need support in wellness and/or counseling.
The University Counseling Center offers many services and resources to support student wellness, including group and individual counseling, workshops and more.
- I could use some help in my classes or with study skills.
We have formal tutoring programs available for students, as well as numerous academic support services. Take a look at what’s available and email yourpitt@pitt.edu if you can’t find what you need.
- I want some general tips, resources and strategies for staying engaged this term.
Explore our Top 10 Strategies for Academic Engagement and follow the links to discover even more tips, resources and strategies.
I hope you will take advantage of the many resources available and continue to pay attention to what you need to be successful this term. Your needs might fluctuate throughout the term, so don’t be afraid to continue asking yourself the question: “How can I make the most of this term?”––and reach out to vpmccarthy@pitt.edu if I can help you with your academic goals.
Take care, mask up, and have a great semester.
Joe
Joseph J. McCarthy
Vice Provost for Undergraduate Studies