#PittsburghMe: Meet Patty Sorg, Criminal Justice Major

Meet Patty Sorg

Major/Program: Criminal Justice
Minor: Psychology
Graduation: December 2017
Scholarships: Vice Presidential
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pa.
High School: Oakland Catholic High School
Dream Job: Anti-human trafficking advocate or museum curator

"Campus is only a few blocks away from the Allegheny County sheriff's office where I have an internship this summer. The court houses are Downtown as well, and our classes have been able to take tours and watch arraignments, which has really made my major exciting."

Patty Sorg

Why did you choose Point Park University?

At first, Point Park was not on my radar. During my college hunt, my mom had mentioned that Point Park was hosting an open house and that she wanted me to check it out. She is an alumna who graduated from here in the 1990s, and my grandfather went here in the 1960s. After one day on campus I was hooked and knew that this was my school. The Downtown atmosphere is what really drew me in.

What opportunities have you had through your major?

The professors in the criminal justice and intelligence programs have connections to both local and federal law enforcement, which is extremely beneficial for me since I'm interested in both of those areas. Campus is also only a few blocks away from the Allegheny County sheriff's office where I have an internship this summer. The court houses are Downtown as well, and our classes have been able to take tours and watch arraignments, which has really made my major exciting.

How are you involved on campus?

During my first two years here I dove in, immersing myself in a handful of clubs such as the Campus Activities Board, Strong Women Strong Girls and Pay it Forward. Lately, I have been taking some time for myself and focusing on life. I am coming up on my third and final summer as a Pioneer Ambassador for the Pioneer Experience orientation program. A lot of hard work is put into these orientation programs, and I am so lucky to have worked alongside such an inspiring group of people. I have also been able to meet some pretty amazing incoming students, and it has been an unforgettable experience.

What's the best part about living on campus?

Living on campus puts everything at your fingertips. I love being in the middle of everything and surrounded by all of the excitement Downtown. It's also great to be in the know about what's going on at Point Park and in Pittsburgh. Even though my home is only ten minutes away, I'm so happy that I chose to live on campus to fully experience this monumental time in my life.

Pamela's Diner or DeLuca's Diner?

Pamela's because... I've never been to DeLuca's. Does that make me a bad Pittsburgher?

As a Pittsburgh native, what fun facts can you tell us about the city?

This is where I nerd out! The architecture of the Allegheny County criminal courthouse and former Allegheny County jail is modeled after the doge's palace and prison in Venice, Italy. The criminal division and jail (which is now the family division) are still connected by a beautiful stoned bridge that you can see hovering over Ross Street.

This bridge, like it's inspiration in Venice, has been named "the bridge of sighs." After being found guilty in the criminal courthouse, those convicted were to make their journey over the bridge to the jail. It would be their last sight of the light out of the windows, therefore they would sigh, hence its name.

What advice would you give to incoming students?

My best advice would to be to get out of your room and explore! The beginning of my freshman year was spent in my room while my roommate and I wondered why we were so bored. Then we realized we needed to get out! Sit in Village Park, hang out in Point Cafe, or walk around Downtown. Exploring is so exciting and you'll run into so many cool people, making connections and friends.

#PittsburghMe: Meet Patty Sorg, Criminal Justice Major Student Profile