Get Career-Ready with: Tessa Williams '25, Operation Walk Pittsburgh's Mission 2023 Photographer Student Profile
Meet Tessa Williams '25
- Job Title & Employer
- Photographer, Operation Walk Pittsburgh Mission 2023
- Major/Program
- Digital Journalism
- College Activities
- Strong Women Strong Girls and National Press Photographers Association
- Hometown
- Pittsburgh, Pa.
- Hobbies & Interests
- I like to create, whether it be taking photos or painting, and spend time in nature hiking.
"This project served as my first significant client assignment, and it greatly contributed to my personal growth. It reaffirmed my passion for this field and fueled my eagerness to complete my degree and enter the workforce."
Tessa Williams '25
What is Operation Walk Pittsburgh?
Operation Walk Pittsburgh is a volunteer organization dedicated to providing the gift of mobility to patients in need across Central America. Their mission trips involve a team of surgeons, nurses and other personnel who provide joint replacements, and arthritis and joint health education, completely free of cost. They work in collaboration with local surgeons, nurses and therapists to share knowledge and expertise, fostering a true cultural and medical exchange.
How did you land a photographer position for Operation Walk Pittsburgh's Mission 2023 trip?
I was introduced to the opportunity to apply as the photographer by my academic advisor Chris Rolinson. Chris knows the photographer who goes on these mission trips, and they were not available this year. The group asked him for students and he recommended me to document the trip as part of my practicum.
What were your key responsibilities as their photographer?
My primary role was to document the work of the mission team in Antigua, Guatemala. This experience allowed me to apply what I've learned about storytelling from my courses at Point Park University, as each day I spent with the team involved narrating moments.
@pointparku Pittsburgh ✈️ Guatemala! Follow along with Tessa Williams '25, who served as the photographer for a recent trip to Guatemala with Operation Walk Pittsburgh! She documented the trip as a part of her practicum experience through the School of Communication! 👏 #GRWM #GetReadyWithMe #PointParkU #PointParkUniversity ♬ original sound - Point Park Univ.
How did this experience reaffirm your decision to major in digital journalism at Point Park?
This project served as my first significant client assignment, and it greatly contributed to my personal growth. It reaffirmed my passion for this field and fueled my eagerness to complete my degree and enter the workforce.
Why did you choose to transfer to Point Park’s School of Communication?
When looking for a school, I sought one that offered the degree I wanted to pursue, provided a personal and supportive environment and excelled in networking opportunities. Point Park met all of these criteria.
What advice do you have for prospective students considering Point Park?
My advice to others is to seize the opportunities that come your way. Learning and growth can only occur through action, and while there may be setbacks, I’m learning that the victories far outweigh the failures.