#PittsburghMe: Meet Bryan Partika, Journalism and Political Science Double Major Student Profile
Meet Bryan Partika
- Majors/Programs
- Journalism, Political Science (government and law, international studies)
- Graduation
- April 2019
- Scholarships
- Vice Presidential, Athletic
- Hometown
- Poland, Ohio
- High School
- Poland Seminary High School
- Dream Job
- Late-night television host
"I wanted to pick the University that I enjoyed most and where I saw a future for myself, where I knew nobody and could grow as an individual. Point Park was unique, away from home, and certainly my number one choice from the moment I stepped on campus. It was the perfect place for me."
Why did you choose Point Park University?
I chose Point Park because I saw everyone that I knew going to the same universities. I wanted to take a risk, be different, and not follow the status quo. I wanted to pick the university that I enjoyed most and where I saw a future for myself, where I knew nobody and could grow as an individual. Point Park was unique, away from home, and certainly my number one choice from the moment I stepped on campus. It was the perfect place for me.
How do you manage your time as a double major?
School is crazy. I usually take 18 credits per semester. I've tested out of a few courses, used my internships for credit, and have taken 12 credits over the past two summers which has decreased the pressure of fulfilling both major requirements. Overall, double majoring at Point Park is very easy with the help of my professors.
You run both track and cross country. What do you like about each sport?
Track is definitely my favorite of the two because hurdling is what I do best. I love the individualization of track and the pressure that every meet brings. My best event is the 400 meter hurdles, where I hold the school record. My favorite thing about cross country is the team atmosphere and getting in shape. I was always a track runner but when I came to Point Park, I decided to try cross country and ended up loving it. The team bonding that goes on in both sports is what I love most. After I graduate, I know that my teammates will be my life-long friends.
How do you balance life as a student-athlete?
Life as a student-athlete can be challenging because I like having a set schedule. Things can change quickly when I'm in season and practices and meets get moved around. It can also be tiring to have class and then practice, but it's fun because all of my friends are there with me, so I'm always enjoying my time! I don't feel like I miss anything with my friends who aren't on the team, because Point Park provides an atmosphere that keeps every student busy.
Where is your favorite spot in the city?
My favorite spot in the city is definitely Point State Park. I love going there with my girlfriend and sitting in front of the fountain with the beautiful sky over the North Shore. It's also an amazing place to run, write, and spend time with friends!
What advice do you have for incoming students?
I'd tell anyone coming to Point Park to give this place a chance. In order to really experience what this school has to offer, you have to stay here for at least a full school year, get involved in multiple clubs, and enjoy time with your friends in the city! Pittsburgh truly becomes home once you spend enough time here. Don't rush home every weekend or every chance you get because you'll find that this place is really special.
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Text Brittany Bishop, senior sports, arts, and entertainment management major
Photo by Sydney Patton, junior sports, arts, and entertainment management major