Pitt College Student Hierarchy of Needs

An Advising and Mentoring Approach

Academic advisors and mentors must decipher individual student advisee needs and tailor advisement to those needs. 

Pyramid shape in which: 

Top peak = Thriving

  • Reflection, integrative learning, high impact practices
  • Advisor Referrals: Research, study abroad, internships, minors & distinctions
  • Note: This makes Pitt and our advisors special as a research university, with the ability to prepare students for lives of impact through personal experiences tailored to their specific goals and needs.

Middle section = Engagement

  • Sense of belonging, co-curricular
  • Advisor Referrals: Student Affairs, organizations, Catalog of Opportunities (COO)

Base = Retention and Graduation

  • Academic performance, GPA, major selection, degree audit/progress towards degree
  • Advisor Referrals: Finances, housing, health and mental wellness, Disability Resource Services