Meet social butterfly Alyssa Riggs! Whether she is hanging out with her dog Chief and watching Netflix, or taking the VSU sidelines by storm with camera in hand and a loud “Go Blazers!” cheer, Alyssa is very hands on and present in everything she does. If you have ever wanted to know more about Alyssa, this is your chance! Check it out!
Name: Alyssa Nicole Riggs
Major: Mass Media
Hometown: Zebulon, GA (“It is a very small town with one stop light and an everyone knows everyone kind of feel. I love it!)
Classification: Senior (graduating in December 2015! Go Alyssa!)
Student Organization/On Campus Involvement: President of Blazer Pride & member of Chi Omega Fraternity
3 “P” words that describe who you are: Pragmatic, Personable, and Passionate
Introvert or extrovert: “I am 100% extroverted…I consider myself a social butterfly!”
Favorite Celebrity: Reba McEntire
HC: Hey Alyssa! What brought you to Valdosta State University?
Alyssa: I chose Valdosta State because of the Mass Media program. Two of my brother’s friends graduated from the same program and are now working with large broadcasting companies. I also love the town of Valdosta; my grandparents lived here while I was growing up. Plus, since I am from a small town, I wanted to go somewhere where I was not overwhelmed with the city or too many people. It was and has been the perfect fit for me.
HC: What do you want to do with your major?
Alyssa: I plan to broadcast sports. I have a strong love for any type of athletic event. I hope to work for a sports broadcasting company and become a sports announcer or reporter.
HC: How do you stay motivated to do what you do?
Alyssa: Staying motivated is hard, but it does get easier. I have a lot going on and I find it hard to get sleep sometimes. Of course, I couldn’t do it without God and his daily blessings, the strong support from my parents and siblings, and the friends and professors I have encountered so far. They all help encourage me. I find it easiest to stay motivated by making a weekly and daily schedule and making sure that I stay on track. In reality, my goals are what make me motivated. If I don’t stay up to finish this project then I will miss the chance to work for this station; I just set big scenarios in my head and push myself as hard as I can.
HC: Now on to some fun questions! What are some of your favorite things to do?
Alyssa: I like to hang out with my family back home or friends whether it is watching Netflix or going out or hanging at the pool. I enjoy being at VSU sporting events – football, baseball, basketball, cheerleadering practice, tennis – you name it and if its going on, I’m probably there taking pictures of it! I love photography and taking pictures of whatever I can find. I currently itern at a radio station in Valdosta (Talk 92.1). I love spending time learning about the station or being able to talk on air. I love to travel, within the states or outside of them. I also love to hunt, from ducks to turkeys, and I love to bass fish. I am in the gym 7 days a week running or weight lifting. I also love to eat chicken wings or eat chocolate ice cream.
HC: What are some fun facts about yourself other people may not know?
Alyssa: I have a 175-pound dog name Chief that thinks he is a lap dog. He is my very best friend! I love photography – whether that is taking pictures of sporting events, portraits, concerts, or nature. I visited five countries (Ireland, France, Sweden, Greece, and Great Britain) in Europe within forty days this past summer.
HC: Alyssa, what legacy do you hope to leave at VSU?
Alyssa: I hope to leave behind a positive impact. I hope that whenever someone hears my name, they think of nothing but good. I most importantly hope to pass on my love for the school and the athletic department. I like to believe I am very school spirited and I hope that the love grows for other students as well. My goal right now is to get others involved and encourage them to attend games or have pride in their school.
HC: What is the most important advice you would give to a freshman coming to VSU?
Alyssa: It is important to be studious, have fun, make friends, and stay organized. However, I think it is more important to be yourself. Don’t let any person, organization, or professor change you. It is great to be open to all opinions and ideas, but don’t conform to what anyone has to say because everyone else is. Have your own style, don’t try and wear what everyone else is wearing; try to be different. Stand up for your beliefs and don’t ever be afraid to stand out. Don’t be afraid to speak up, but be classy and respectful while doing so. There will be a lot of people who disagree with you, but everyone is going to remember the bright, honest, and fun one out of the group. Oh, and always be on time! Do whatever you can to make a positive and lasting impression.
Wow! What great advice! If you can’t find Alyssa at a sporting event, or on campus, follow her on Instagram & Twitter at @alyssanriggs!