3 Questions for Pittsburgh Newcomers

Leaving home for the first time can be scary, especially if you're going to a whole new city. Luckily at Chatham, nearly one-third of our undergraduate population comes from outside of Pennsylvania, and they love it. We caught up with Chatham students from across the United States to see how they’re taking advantage of all the ‘Burgh has to offer while adapting to a major life change. Read on to learn what these new yinzers think of the experience:

Thomas Grigans, Marketing ‘21

Name: Thomas Grigans
Major: Marketing ‘21
Hometown: East Lansing, Michigan

Best place to eat in Pittsburgh? Church Brew Works
Favorite part about moving to Pittsburgh? I grew up in a small city and it was nothing compared to Pittsburgh. When I moved to Pittsburgh to attend Chatham I learned how awesome it was to be in a big city and get that big city lifestyle!
Best way to combat homesickness? 1. Surround yourself with people who make it feel like a home away from home. 2. Get involved on campus to get your mind off being gone while having a good time at Chatham.

Rebecca Dunkleberger, Biology ‘19

Name: Rebecca Dunkleberger
Major: Biology ‘19
Hometown: Skiatook, Oklahoma

Best place to eat in Pittsburgh? China Palace
Favorite part about moving to Pittsburgh? I love that there are always new places to experience in Pittsburgh. I feel like I'll forever be able to explore something different in this city. 
Best way to combat homesickness? Keeping busy is the key for me. My first semester I wasn't involved in much on campus and I just focused on coursework. That's when I had an issue with homesickness. So second semester I got into the Drama Club, interviewed for an orientation leader position and made an effort to be out of my room. Since then I keep a healthy but a busy schedule that keeps me engaged with my campus and makes me excited to share what I do with my family.

Alexander Ferrer, Policy Studies ‘18

Name: Alexander Ferrer
Major: Policy Studies ‘18
Hometown: Hendersonville, Nevada

Best place to eat in Pittsburgh? Pamela’s Diner
Favorite part about moving to Pittsburgh? My favorite part about moving to Pittsburgh was meeting new people, being in a cooler climate, and having independent experiences that have helped me grow into the person I am now.
Best way to combat homesickness? I combat homesickness by giving my family a call or by keeping myself busy by hanging out with my girlfriend, studying, working, or going to the gym. 

Ariel Gray,
Interior Architecture ‘19

Name: Ariel Gray
Major: Interior Architecture ‘19
Hometown: Indianapolis, Indiana

Best place to eat in Pittsburgh? Mad Mex
Favorite part about moving to Pittsburgh? My favorite part about moving to Pittsburgh were all the hills and bridges. The Midwest tends to be a little flat and boring so being in a city with so much texture makes me love it even more. 
Best way to combat homesickness? The best way I combat my homesickness is to go home with some of my friends. Even though they aren't my real family, just being around a family setting and getting a home-cooked meal makes you feel ten times better.