About FOCUS (Facilitating Opportunity and Climate for Underrepresented Students)
G-1 Gardner Steel Conference Center
412-648-7920
Welcome to FOCUS!
As part of the Academic Resource Center, the FOCUS (Facilitating Opportunity and Climate for Underrepresented Students) peer mentoring program provides the tools students need to make a successful transition from high school to college life. Through its programs and services, FOCUS offers freshman students a wonderful opportunity to meet other freshmen, as well as to learn from upperclassmen about the various aspects of campus life that will enhance their success inside and outside the classroom.
FOCUS Combines Academic and Social Activities
FOCUS is dedicated to the success of underrepresented students at Pitt by motivating students to meet the University’s high academic standards. We do this through various types of activities, including bi-weekly study sessions; meeting with FOCUS leaders; participating in educational, social and cultural events; and attending professional and career forums. Because we believe that learning continues outside of the classroom, FOCUS sponsors an annual trip for students to experience the cultural flavor of a new city. Previous FOCUS trips have included excursions to Philadelphia, PA and Washington, DC.
Get Involved in the Pitt Community
To enhance a student’s academic and personal development, FOCUS encourages students to become active members in campus organizations, as well as volunteers in community outreach programs. Talk to your FOCUS leader to learn more about how you can get involved!
FOCUS Leaders
FOCUS has a tremendous impact on a student’s success throughout his or her academic journey at Pitt. From personalized academic support, to involvement in campus activities, to community service, FOCUS students excel academically and become leaders in University organizations—and leaders in FOCUS.
To stay on track academically, FOCUS provides students with a trained peer mentor or FOCUS leader. Students interact on a regular basis with their FOCUS leader in group and individual settings. FOCUS leaders are high-achieving upperclassmen who take pride in their academic achievements while remaining active members on campus. After graduation, most FOCUS leaders enroll in a variety of elite graduate and professional school programs. Students who serve as leaders also gain valuable leadership experience. To find out more about how you can become a FOCUS leader, contact FOCUS at 412-648-7920.
FOCUS Advisors
Melvin Cherry, Jr.
412-648-8129
mcc59@pitt.edu
Teraya White
412-648-1203
tdw10@pitt.edu