I worked in downtown Pittsburgh for a year and this was a very convenient location (12 min drive). The building is older so you will need to invest in an air conditioner and humidifier, but besides that it really is a great value. High ceilings, plaster walls, hardwood floors, and lots of natural light. There is a doorman on site and for an extra fee ($95/mo) you can have your car valet parked in the building's attached garage. There was 5 walk in closets in my 1 bedroom - plenty of storage! I believe my 1 bedroom was about 900 sq ft. It had a xtra large living room and bedroom. There was a dining room and small gally kitchen.
It is close to University of Pittsburgh but not too close to where most of the students live - they do not rent to undergraduate students. On the backside of the block, at Craig/Centre, it looks sketchy but I never had any problems going thru there (there are a couple local bars and beer warehouse).
Close by is plenty of places to eat and two grocery stores - Giant Eagle and Whole Foods. There are tons of bus stops right near by if you need to go that route.