I am delighted that we are introducing the Outside the Classroom Curriculum this fall. OCC is indeed a revolutionary program designed to provide a unique Pitt Pathway for each student as they seek to grow and develop in areas that are critical for success.

When employers and admissions officers at graduate and professional schools are surveyed, they consistently respond that they are seeking graduates who write well, express themselves in a speech well, have excellent computer skills, have mathematical skills that allow sophisticated quantitative reasoning, think clearly, read critically, make good decisions, and understand the diversity of our society in the United States, as well as in the various cultures of the world.

In short, they are looking for a sophisticated, well-rounded person.  What excites me about OCC is that our campus collaborated to develop a structured way for students to accomplish this goal. This enhanced Pitt Pathway is flexible, yet intentional; it is designed to encourage and challenge.  It provides a platform to allow students to explore and take risks, yet at the same time be recognized for doing things they naturally do and like to do.

We look forward to positive results as students embark on their journey.

Best wishes,

James V. Maher, Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor