Hello! My name is Connor Kariotis, and I am a freshman at the University of Pittsburgh majoring in computer engineering. I am from Lower Burrell, a small city about 30 minutes east of Pittsburgh, where I graduated as Burrell High School’s 2023 valedictorian. In high school, I played ice hockey and soccer, where I made many memories and had many great experiences that I am already missing.

In the summer, I work as a kids camp counselor at the Fox Chapel Golf Club, as well as babysit some of the kids from the club. I go home most weekends during the school year, where I ref youth soccer during the fall and spring seasons for the club I grew up playing for , Tri-City Soccer Association. This year is my 15th and last season of eligibility playing for TCSA, But I will continue to ref through college.

This May, I am going to Seoul, South Korea as part of Pitt’s Plus3 program. I am very excited for this trip as it is the country I wanted to visit the most. As an aspiring software engineer, the idea of learning about smart systems seemed the most interesting and the most relevant to my major. Additionally, I am excited to learn more real-world skills and more about what it takes to work in the engineering field.

Personally, I am excited to develop friendships with others on the trip, and create friendships that will last past this trip to Korea. Also, I am very excited to try Korean foods, and have very high expectations! All in all, this trip could not come any sooner, I am definitely excited for summer.