Point Park POV: Sports Communication Major Ben Schaffer '29 Student Profile
Meet Ben Schaffer '29
- Major/Program
- Sports Communication
- College Activities
- Sports Communication Club, Resident Assistant
- Hometown
- Reading, Pa.
- High School
- Wilson High School
- Dream Job
- Photographer for the Pittsburgh Steelers
- Hobbies & Interests
- Playing pool with friends and playing football with friends at Point State Park.
"I chose Point Park's sports communication program because it offered so many hands-on opportunities with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates and Penguins. Point Park is a great place to get your foot in the door as a sports communications professional."
Why did you choose Point Park University’s sports communication program?
I chose Point Park's sports communication program because it offered so many hands-on opportunities with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates and Penguins. Point Park is a great place to get your foot in the door as a sports communications professional.
Schaffer photographing the 2026 NFL Draft
Highlight real-world experiences you’ve had related to your major.
I've had a variety of real-world experiences related to my major, including:
- Freelance photographer for the Pittsburgh Steelers, capturing high school showcase games.
- Photographer for the Reading Raptors football team.
- Photographer for Point Park Athletics, including covering the Mountain East Conference baseball tournament.
You had the opportunity to photograph the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. Tell us more about your role covering an event on a national sports stage.
Covering the NFL Draft for the Indiana Gazette was a fun and interesting experience. I had special early access to events and got up close to capture moments the average guest wouldn't see. I put in long hours walking all over the city, but it was worth it.
Which faculty members and courses have had a significant impact on you?
Even though I'm in my sophomore year, I feel my English 101 teacher (we call him Doc) has been a crucial part of my college experience so far and has helped me see life differently. I also really enjoy what I'm learning in Jim Nestor's sports photography class.
@pointparku Meet @Ben Schaffer '29, a sports communication major! Follow along for a day in the life as he hops around campus, from his dorm to the gym to a shoot with the @Pittsburgh Steelers ♬ original sound - Point Park University
What is the sports communication club and why should a student join the club?
The sports communication club operates like a full broadcast production crew. Students can serve as a director, camera operator, photographer and in any other role related to sports media. I've made so many great friends in this club and I really enjoy the opportunity to travel with Point Park Athletics to photograph their games.
What’s it like living and learning in Downtown Pittsburgh?
Downtown Pittsburgh is a great place to experience city living for the first time. I've always wanted to live in a city and this has been a positive experience for me.
One of my favorite places to eat is Mad Chicken (their boneless wings are to die for). I also enjoy walking to Point State Park to play football with my friends and riding my scooter around the city to see all the sights.
What are your career goals?
I would love to work as a photographer for the Pittsburgh Steelers during football season, and then in the spring and summer, work as a photographer for the Philadelphia Phillies.
What advice do you have for a prospective student?
Don't be afraid to make friends and talk to people. I have the opportunity to be a resident assistant and it has really pushed me out of my comfort zone. I used to not talk to many people or was just shy, but now I talk to everyone. Making friends in the first few days after moving in is important; that's why, anywhere I go, I see someone I know and feel more comfortable talking to people. Also, join clubs and student organizations because they are amazing at Point Park.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Choosing Point Park was the best decision for me. I love going to school in Downtown Pittsburgh.