What I Do Outside of the Classroom

Hi! I’m Sofia, a third-year student at Carnegie Mellon studying information systems with a concentration in AI management and a minor in computer science. When I’m not coding or working on projects, I love exploring everything Pittsburgh has to offer, especially its food scene.

One of my favorite things about CMU is how easy it is to get around since every neighborhood feels close and easy to reach by bus. Whether it’s Italian restaurants downtown, Thai curry or Szechuan food in Squirrel Hill, mala hotpot in Oakland or brunch cafés in Shadyside, there is always something new to try. As someone from Hunan, I’m supposed to handle spicy foods well, but I’ll admit I usually end up tearing up halfway through my meal. It is worth it every time.

When I’m not eating my way through the city, I’m chasing a different kind of thrill: roller coasters. I love the rush, and luckily Kennywood, Pittsburgh’s classic amusement park, is only about a 20-minute drive from campus and also accessible by bus. Every Halloween, I go to their haunted nights. Last year I went with the Chinese Students and Scholars Association, and this year with my sorority. Between the haunted mazes and the rides, it has become one of my favorite CMU fall traditions, the perfect mix of adrenaline, laughter and late-night snacks with friends. 

Some of my favorite CMU memories are much quieter. During my first year, I started hosting “boba experiment” nights in my residence hall’s open kitchen. What began as a small idea turned into a mini campus event. One night, fifteen people showed up and others stopped by asking if it was a club. We kept experimenting with new flavors and toppings, some successful and others not so much, but that was the fun of it. I loved how something as simple as making drinks together brought people from all corners of campus. Many of those friends I met through boba nights are still some of my closest today, and our recipes have definitely improved.

When I’m looking for something more adventurous, I also like to go shooting, horseback riding through CMU’s Pittsburgh Connections program or go-karting with friends. I don't go every week, but whenever I do, I’m reminded how much variety Pittsburgh offers, from peaceful outdoor experiences to high-speed excitement.

And when I need to recharge, I like taking a walk in Schenley Park or spending an afternoon at Phipps Conservatory. It is only a few minutes from campus, but it always feels like stepping into a different world: green, quiet and peaceful. Sometimes I bring a picnic, sit on the grass and let my mind wander.

Being at CMU has taught me that life here is so much more than classes and projects. Between good food, great friends and small adventures around the city, I’ve realized that the moments outside the classroom often become the ones that matter the most.