Traveling in the summer

Ideally, traveling to a college should take place during the summer between junior and senior year of high school. This gives you plenty of time to complete the application process for your top choices. There are a number of colleges in the Pittsburgh area, so you should make the most of your journey.

Pros

The pros of visiting in the summer are numerous. For starters, you might be able to get a better parking spot. Although some colleges have specific parking places for visitors, these might be further away from the actual classrooms. You might be able to get a better geographical feel for the campus, since it will not be crowded with students trying to get to class. You also might be able to see different areas of campus that might be off-limits during the semester. Being able to get into a lab, studio, or computer room might give you a better feeling for what is physically offered at that college. Also, traveling in the summertime can allow you to take advantage of summer hotels deals offered by the Duquesne University hotels.

Cons

Visiting college campuses in the summer is not for everyone, however, as there are also a number of cons. While you might be able to see the entire campus, you might not get a feel for how crowded it gets when class is in session. This might cause you to underestimate the time needed to get to your class, an often overlooked consideration when choosing a college. Additionally, the fact that classes are not in session means that you will not get the opportunity to sit in on an actual class. This, especially when done for a class in your major, means you get a feel for the curriculum and how the program is taught. Meeting the professor as well as students who are taking the same classes you are interested in can give you insight as to whether this school is right for you.

While there are a number of pros and cons to visiting Pittsburgh’s colleges in the summer, only you can decide if this is right for you.

Traveling to Pittsburgh

By air

Most major carriers fly into Pittsburgh International Airport. There, travelers can rent a car or take a limousine, taxi or charter bus.

The Port Authority provides public transportation from the airport to many Pittsburgh destinations including Duquesne University for only $2.60.

Transportation arrangement for senior and handicapped visitors may be made through ACCESS. Qualified travelers should make arrangements in advance by calling (412) 562-5353.

By car

If you’re coming from the east, chances are you will be taking I-76 to I-376. Those coming from the south will probably come up I-79 and then take I-376 to get into the city. If you’re coming from north of the city, taking I-79 to I-279 is probably the best route. Finally, if you’re coming from the west, you’ll either take I-76 to I-79 to I-279 or I-70 to I-79 to I-376, depending on whether you’re in the northwest or the southwest.

Hotels Near Pitt and Duquesne

Visitors have a plethora of Pitt and Duquesne University hotels. Those willing to pay extra may choose lodging located less than a mile from campus. There are also many modestly priced accommodations that aren’t much farther.

Eating in and around Pittsburgh

The food choices are endless around Pittsburgh. No matter what a traveler’s tastes, they can easily be satisfied without wandering far. For casual dining, the options range from fast food, Chinese food, pizza, cafes and diners. The more refined palette can also find satisfaction from pricier restaurants serving seafood and steak.

Whatever visitors might need, it’s a good bet they can find it near the college they are visiting.