Michele Lagnese

As a first-generation college alum, I will never forget the first time I taught a class at the Cathedral of Learning. Looking down into the Commons Room from the third floor, I reflected on how I would never have dreamed it would be possible for a shy, rural farm kid to realize such an accomplishment as teaching at the University of Pittsburgh ... in the Cathedral of Learning! I had the same feeling the day I completed a doctoral class in Cathy, such a mixture of pride in self as well as pride in being a part of an amazing University community. I encourage students who may be feeling stressed or discouraged to take a moment, take a deep breath, look down into the Commons Room, and realize what they are doing, where they are, and what they can accomplish! H2P!