Alumni Spotlight: Patrick Stofko '97
Patrick Stofko attended Pitt-Greensburg from which he graduated in 1997 with a BA in English writing.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
I am originally from the Latrobe area so I was looking to stay close to home for my college experience. I also wanted a smaller-campus feel and class size. Plus, I wanted the opportunity to continue playing baseball during my college years.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Commuter
What activities were you involved with as a student?
I was active with the Pitt-Greensburg baseball team for two years and played every intramural sport there was. Intramurals was a great opportunity to meet new people and stay active. Many of the people I still stay in touch with today I met because of those activities.
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class that most impacted you or was your favorite? Why?
One of my favorite classes I took was the public relations class that was offered at night. The class taught an introduction to public relations in the corporate world, and I really loved the class. It gave me additional experience in writing and speaking in public --skill sets that I use to this day and can be traced back to that class.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
I most vividly remember many of the relationships that I formed while at Pitt-Greensburg. They were friendships that lasted while in school, and many still remain today.
What have you been up to since graduation?
Since graduation I have worked for many larger corporate retailers and professional sports organizations. I worked with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Marc Advertising, Dicks' Sporting Goods, American Eagle, Pittsburgh Penguins and Under Armour where I currently am the National Golf Sales Manager. Each professional experience I had led to the next opportunity in my career.
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
Pitt-Greensburg set me up for what was next in my journey. Like building a house, Pitt-Greensburg set the foundation for what was to come. Once I entered the work force the real-life experiences continued to shape my path and the direction I took.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
I try to stay active with Pitt-Greensburg by volunteering and fundraising for the campus as a member of the Golf Outing Committee. I personally donate to the event and serve on the committee to help organize and provide feedback when needed.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
If I could give advice to anyone in school today it would be to cherish the time that you have at school and stay present in the moment. Time flies, and before you know it, you’ll be on your journey to what’s next in life. Also, leave plenty of water bottles on the trail of life. Meaning you are not in this professional journey alone. Help others along the way as best you can.
For fun:
What is your favorite food? Pizza especially from the Greensburg/Latrobe area -- so many great options like Jioio’s, Gianilli’s, Scotty G’s, and many others.
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- I’m the youngest of 8 brothers and sisters.
- I love to coach youth athletics that my son is involved in (baseball, basketball), but my favorite thing he plays is golf. Having the chance to play golf together is the best.
- My wife’s, kids’ and my first initials spell PITT -- Patrick, Isabella, Ty, and Tracie.