When I was a kid, I always imagined what it would be like to live in a city. My whole life I have lived in the same small town and went to school with the same group of kids. When I graduated from Youngsville High School, there were only 61 other students who received their diplomas with me. It was as if I saw more cows in one day than people. I wish that was an exaggeration.

When it came time to look at colleges, I tried my best to stay away from schools that were in any sort of rural atmosphere. My one stipulation was that there had to be easy transportation to the city.

Attending Point Park was no doubt one of the best decisions I have ever made. It is a totally different environment than at home. I needed the chance to explore somewhere new.

As a student at Point Park, I have already had amazing opportunities. As freshmen, we are encouraged to jump right in and get comfortable with clubs and activities. That certainly helps you grow and gain knowledge before going into any internship or job.

Going to school at Point Park makes it easier to get your name out. Whether you work on a freelance project or have an opportunity to intern for one of the Pittsburgh sports teams, building a name for yourself is crucial to get the job you want after school.

Living in Pittsburgh gives you many diverse opportunities to pick what you want to do for a career. It also makes it easier to find the resources you need to help get you there.

The diverse classes that Point Park offers is another great feature of this school. If your current major isn’t right for you, there is the opportunity to take different classes to help you decide what you like and don’t like. The professors are very helpful when it comes to this as well. They truly want you to succeed.

One of the best things about having a campus located right in the heart of downtown is being able to go anywhere whenever you want. While academics is important, having fun is, too, and the phrase, “the city never sleeps” is true.

It doesn’t matter what time it is, I can always find something to do. During the day I can go visit one of the many museums, restaurants or shops that are within walking distance of my dorm. At night, I can go sit at the Point and study or go for a McDonald’s run with my friends. I always feel busy, and I like having a full schedule.

Another thing I enjoy about Point Park is the diversity. In my hometown, everyone came from the same place and grew up in the same type of environment. As soon as I came to Point Park, I met so many people with so many different backgrounds. It was almost overwhelming.

Having the chance to hear everyone’s stories and different lifestyles gave me a whole new perspective on the world.

There are certain times when I miss the quiet, rolling hills of the small town I grew up in. However, there is something about the city that makes me what to live here forever.

Point Park has become so much more to me than just a school. It is now a second home.