First Generation Students

Welcome to the First Generation Students career community!  While students benefit from a Pitt education, exploring career-building experiences outside of the classroom comes with specific methods for how to do so. This community will help first generation students to explore career resources, job and internship opportunities, and connect with alumni mentors, all of which will help plan a pathway toward your career.

These resources compliment the information provided in the Career Communities, where you will find resources for specific industries and areas of study.

To discuss or share additional resources for this affinity group, please contact Carol Balk at carol.balk@pitt.edu.

Why are more students taking post-undergraduate gap years?

An increasing number of students have been choosing to take a gap year between undergrad and post-graduate education. 

Each year, between 40,000 and 60,000 students choose to take a gap year, or a year away from education, with the intent to return. …

By Sydney Krasniewski
Sydney Krasniewski Senior Staff Writer
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Thinking of Applying to a Federal Government Position? Take note of some updates to the hiring process

As of May 2025, the federal goverment will be changing its application process for those interested in applying to federal government positions. These include:

What this means: If you’re considering applying to a federal government position, you may need to …

By Karen Chow
Karen Chow
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ICYMI: Fall Career & Internship Fair

Nearly 2,500 students showed up to meet recruiters from over 180 companies last week. Terrific connections were made, but the work is not over. Whether you had a chance to attend or not, we want you to know that the …

By Sasha Gorchanyuk
Sasha Gorchanyuk Special Events Coordinator
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Pitt Commons Launches Mentoring Program for First Generation Students

Calling all first-generation students, registration for the First at Pitt Mentorship Program is now open! Through this program you will be connected with a first-gen alumni mentor to discuss academics, post-graduation plans, and how to succeed at Pitt.

Sign up …

By Mary Ramsey
Mary Ramsey Program Coordinator of Student Success Initiatives
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Finding Your Purpose: The Importance of Understanding Your Values

When exploring careers, many consider whether an occupation will be personally fulfilling to them or not. This personal fulfillment can come in many different forms. For example, some folks are most satisfied by helping others, while others find joy in …

By Holly Schultz
Holly Schultz
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First Generation Students Resources

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