Planning ahead for University of Pittsburgh

I'm anticipating starting at the University of Pittsburgh next year. In terms of course load, are there any classes that are more manageable or seen as 'easy' to start with to help me transition smoothly? I'm thinking about majoring in History, so anything that could be beneficial in those lines would be ideal!

It's great to hear that you're setting your sights on the University of Pittsburgh and even thinking ahead about your course planning. As a History major, you'll want to start with some foundational courses in your first year, such as "Western Civilization 1 & 2" or "World History". These usually offer a broad overview and are a good stepping stone to more specialized history courses. In addition to this, you might want to consider "Introduction to the Arts and Sciences" which is a course designed to provide the foundational skills necessary for success in the College of Arts and Sciences

Beyond your major, consider taking general education courses that align with your interests and strengthen your skills. "Public Speaking" can build your presentation skills, while classes in art, music, or literature can foster a well-rounded education. Additionally, the university does offer several entry-level 'experiences' courses that many students find engaging and less strenuous, including topics like climate change, popular music, and film studies which can satisfy some general education requirements.

Lastly, many students find "First-Year Seminar" helpful. It's not 'easy', but it's geared towards first-year students to help them transition to college life, develop success strategies and explore possible majors and careers.

Remember, 'easy' is subjective and can depend on your interests, skills, and the professor teaching the course. It's always a good idea to talk with your academic advisor or upperclassmen once you're on campus to get a sense of which courses might be a good fit for you. Good luck with your preparations!