“The first year out of college was challenging for both of us, in different ways, but we took refuge in each other and in our friendships as we navigated the changes.” 2017-2018 alumni Shayna Gleason and David Hogan share the story of how they met and began a relationship through PULSE. “We met during PULSE...Read More

“PULSE has inspired me to think critically about the nature of social service and the skills effective to activating intentional partnerships and transformations.” Jahqwahn Watson grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, and attended The College of Wooster where they earned a degree in Africana Studies. At Wooster, they devoted much of their time to organizations such as the Children’s...Read More

“I think PULSE is structured in such a way that it makes me challenge my limited perspective. It encourages a close-knit, connected community, so considering how well-networked Pittsburgh is, there are several opportunities for community engagement.” Alyssa Miville grew up in Montgomery, Pennsylvania, then moved to Muncy Valley, Pennsylvania to live with one of her...Read More

“It’s a community where everyone has decided to be here intentionally. That’s so different from being in a college setting because we all came here and have the same core values. This experience has made me want to live intentionally in my day-to-day life.” A graduate of the University of Colorado Boulder, Bonnie majored in Sociology...Read More

“PULSE has inspired me to live simply and communally, as well as grow with like-minded people.” A graduate of Stonehill College, Brett majored in Political Science. Brett has served with three different organizations in the Brockton and Easton areas of Massachusetts including Catholic charities, My Brother’s Keeper, and The Farm at Stonehill. All of these experiences taught him different...Read More

“I’ve enjoyed hearing the diverse viewpoints and the ways in which people think about varying topics. My housemates have pushed me to understand things from another viewpoint and meet people where they are sometimes.” A graduate of The College of Wooster, D’Khorvillyn majored in International Relations. D’Khorvillyn was a Girl Scout from age 3 until her Senior year...Read More

“What I have enjoyed most is the supportive environment I find myself in. Any time one of us is struggling, the rest of us are quick to offer solutions and aid in problem-solving.” Grace Taylor grew up in University Heights, Ohio and attended John Carroll University where she earned a degree in Sociology. Grace is passionate about...Read More

“I’ve really enjoyed having a community of folks who are going through a similar thing that I am in the sense that we’re all living in a new city and serving with new partnerships and we’re all recently graduated. We are able to support each other and talk about what we’re going through.” Erin Zehr...Read More

“The resources provided by PULSE and my mentor have made my experience easier to transition into Pittsburgh.” A graduate of Appalachian State University, Zakaria Miller majored in Communication Studies with a minor in European Studies. She was heavily involved in community service at Appalachian State, working as an Alternative Service Experience Peer Leader where she recruited undergraduates to...Read More

“PULSE has instilled the importance of community in me and made me focus more on where I’m currently living, finding the value and growth within a community.” Amy Wisseman, from Oakton, Virginia, completed her undergraduate degree at The College of Wooster with a major in Global and International Studies. During her time in school, she was a...Read More