North Oakland sits right between Shadyside, Bloomfield, and the heart of Oakland, making it a very vibrant and lively neighborhood. The area links the two major college campuses of Pitt and Carnegie Mellon, so it is always buzzing with college students. While also serving as a hub for them, it also maintains a steady, neighborhood feel for long-time residents. North Oaklands’ history began with its naming after its abundant oak trees in the early 19th century. In those days, this land was primarily rural farmland. Oakland became a cultural and academic center in large part due to the presence of Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh.

Walking down these streets showed me just how diverse North Oakland is. There is quite a mixture of languages and cultures. As I strolled down a street, I saw many different types of cuisine varying from other cultures. There would be a Starbucks, then next door a sushi place, and then up the street a fancy Italian restaurant. On game days, Pitt’s blue and gold are all over every porch and in every storefront. However, a few blocks away, the mood shifts to quiet streets and a calmer vibe.

Over the last decade, the neighborhood has undergone significant changes. With the building of new apartments and increased student housing demands from the nearby universities, it has become a pretty lively neighborhood. What makes North Oakland stand out today is its layered identity. One part of the neighborhood is historic, while the other is a student hub and a research powerhouse. From my observations of the mix of people in this neighborhood, it is clear how North Oakland continues to adapt while preserving its unique historic charm.