Point Park is a unique school. From the urban Downtown campus to having one of the nation’s top dance programs, Point Park is like no other school. There are some things I wish I knew my freshman year that I know would’ve enhanced my experience. So here are some tips on how to survive your first year at PPU.
Textbooks can be expensive. Some students don’t know about the alternatives to absurdly expensive required texts. According to the National Association of College Stores, students spent an average of $313 on textbooks last fall.
The University’s library has many textbooks on reserve that you can check out and use for three hours in the library; that’s one way you can access materials for class without spending a penny. Renting is also an option to save money on books. On websites like Amazon and Chegg, you can find books for almost half the cost of the University Bookstore. Amazon Prime also has free two-day shipping and discounts on student memberships.
Getting around Pittsburgh can be difficult sometimes, and there’s a lot more to see beyond Downtown and Oakland. Students can use their Pioneer Card to receive a discounted bus fare of one dollar on Zone 1 Port Authority buses after 7 p.m. and on weekends. By going to nearby neighborhoods like Squirrel Hill, Shadyside or Lawrenceville you can find places to eat, shop and be entertained.
Your Pioneer Card can also get you free admission into all Carnegie Museums including the Mattress Factory, Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Science Center and Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Seeing some cool art on a Saturday afternoon makes the perfect date.
Taking the stairs instead of the elevator is something that all Point Park students should do if they’re physically able. You will burn calories and get to class on time without having to wait ten minutes in a line. Ten flights of stairs seem like an awful lot, but if you didn’t go to the gym that day, it balances out, right?
Make sure you actually read all syllabi and be aware of the attendance policies for each course. Waiting in line for an elevator that causes you to be late to class adds up. Before you know it, your final grade will be lower than you expected.
Becoming involved at Point Park is something that I would recommend to first year students as well. There are more than 50 active clubs and organizations that you can easily become a part of. It’s also a great way to meet new people and make new friends. I believe there’s a club for everyone at Point Park and if you think there’s not, you can easily start your own. You just need at least 12 signatures from prospective members.
These tips and tricks will enhance any first year student’s experience at Point Park.
