First Year Experiences: The Class of 2021

Now that our first year students have settled in, we asked them about their experiences since moving to Pittsburgh and starting graduate school. Here is what they had to say:

 Moving to Pittsburgh has been an amazing experience! Since I arrived, I started making great friends. In my free time, I’ve been able to go hiking at Ohiopyle, explore downtown Pittsburgh, and get to know the surrounding area a little better. When I’m not in class, I get to enjoy long walks with awesome views, and enjoy some delicious Pittsburgh food with my friends! Pittsburgh really does have it all!

-Michael Gosky, 1^st year genetic counseling student

 Staying in Pittsburgh for my genetic counseling training was an excellent choice for me. The environment at the University of Pittsburgh brings a sense of comfort due to the familiarity I have with the city. I have been enjoying my classes so far. The professors are supportive and really strive to help us succeed. In my free time I enjoy volunteering at Magee Women’s Hospital in the genetics department, going to musicals that occur in Pittsburgh’s cultural district, and spending time with friends or family.

 -Haley Kulas, 1^st year genetic counseling student

I have lived just outside of Pittsburgh for my whole life, so being able to move right into the heart of the city was very exciting to me. I immediately connected with my classmates and have been able to explore all of the unique neighborhoods of Pittsburgh with them. My classes are engaging and challenging, and there are a lot of opportunities to enrich your knowledge outside of the classroom. Apart from school, I have gone to a Penguins game, sampled a diverse array of restaurants across the city, and explored the various parks and museums. There’s always something to exciting and new to do here!

-Megan Czekalski, 1^st year genetic counseling student

 Pittsburgh has so many unique neighborhoods with different personalities that really allow you to have a different experience every weekend. Pittsburgh is a great city for foodies, sports fans, art lovers, scientists and everyone in between. I graduated from Pitt with my undergraduate degree and decided to stay at Pitt not only for the amazing reputation of their genetic counseling program, but because Pittsburgh is a wonderful city to call home. 

-Kaylee Williams, 1^st year genetic counseling student

 It’s been great to be back at school!  Classes are interesting and challenging and I feel like I’ve learned an incredible amount so far. I like how involved we are with the Human Genetics Department and the Graduate School of Public Health. There have been so many opportunities for us to get to know students from other disciplines. I’ve enjoyed wandering the city and seeing all of the cool things Pittsburgh has to offer. I’ve been to Pirates games, walked along North Shore Riverfront Park, and eaten some amazing food.

-Chelsey Walsh, 1^st year genetic counseling student

 As someone from the south, moving to Pittsburgh has been a huge change for me but so far, I’m loving it! Everyone I have met has been extremely welcoming and I’m enjoying getting to know my classmates who are becoming fast friends. Returning to school is stressful at times but having supportive professors and engaging coursework makes the transition easier and more enjoyable. Outside of classes, I enjoy exploring the city with friends and sampling the variety of food that Pittsburgh has to offer.

-Kaitlyn Scola, 1^st year genetic counseling student

Starting grad school in Pittsburgh has been a whirlwind of an experience. Between a challenging set of classes and working in a local hospital, I’ve been thrown into so much of what this city has to offer. It is amazing to be part of such a rapidly advancing medical culture. My classmates and I all formed strong bonds quickly, and have served as a great support system to each other in times of stress and adventure! Outside of school, I have experienced the intense Pittsburgh spirit at a Penguins hockey game, ventured out to Ohiopyle State Park for some great hiking, and gotten a taste of some local foods!   

-Mariele Anneling, 1^st year genetic counseling student