“I love having an impact on a new place. I’m new to Pittsburgh and I thought that would hinder my influence, but it’s actually helped. I’m learning something new everyday and I find my idea of what I want to do in the city shaped and reshaped everyday.” – Courtlen Vizzuso
Courtlen Vizzuso grew up in Alliance, OH and attended Ohio University where he earned a B.A in Political Science Pre-Law, while also earning a Law Justice & Culture Certificate. At OU, he devoted much of his time to campus service. He served as a College Representative Orientation Leader with the Undergraduate Orientation Programs. He also a Learning Community Leader with Learning Community Programs where he mentored first-year political science students, assisted Learning Community class instructor with lesson plans, lead discussions, and programmed diversified events. In his free time, Courtlen enjoys singing, playing soccer, meeting new people, and trying new foods. He is a part of the Northside cohort, and is serving at United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania.
Justice TenEyck: What has been the most valuable part of the PULSE experience so far?
Courtlen Vizzuso: The most valuable part has been the idea of bringing recent college graduates together to work on one mission, even though we are all so different. You learn to value everyone’s ideas and stories while still having the opportunity to have your voice heard in this group of caring individuals.
Justice: What do you enjoy most about your nonprofit partnership?
Courtlen: I enjoy being in schools and working with the students. It’s really cool to be involved in the administrative side of schools and to see their inner workings. I like connecting with students and seeing myself in them and their stories.
Justice: What surprised you most about Pittsburgh?
Courtlen: What surprised me most is the pride that people have for Pittsburgh. Even though the population decreased so drastically, the people that stuck around stayed true to Pittsburgh and they love their city. You can feel this love and pride as you walk around the city.
Justice: What’s your favorite “family meal” recipe for the house?
Courtlen: We find ourselves eating different variations on tacos several times week.
Justice: What is the best part of the PULSE experience?
Courtlen: I love having an impact on a new place. I’m new to Pittsburgh and I thought that would hinder my influence, but it’s actually helped. I’m learning something new everyday and I find my idea of what I want to do in the city shaped and reshaped everyday.
Story by PULSE Participant Justice TenEyck.
Read more Participant Stories from Fellows about their experience in PULSE. If you would like to learn more about the PULSE program, please visit our Serve with Us page.
Also, check out other Stories of Transformation: