About
A reporter’s ear, a speaker’s voice.
I’m Sam Rizzo, a first-semester senior at the University of Wisconsin–Madison studying journalism on the strategic communication and reporting tracks, with a certificate in sports communication.
My internships have put me close to the news: pitching technology reporters and preparing executive briefings at United Airlines, writing for physicians and patients at Northwestern Medicine, and now pitching faculty and student stories at the UW–Madison School of Nursing.
Before that, I learned to hold a room — as a competitive speaker, as the on-ice host for a USHL hockey team and on game days with UW Athletics. I graduate in May 2027 and am looking for full-time roles in communications, media relations, marketing and PR.
How I work
Find the human angle
A bag’s journey, a physician’s evening at home, an athlete’s story — people remember people.
Write for the reader in front of you
Tech reporters, physicians, patients and fans each need something different. I start there.
Say exactly what’s true
Journalism training taught me to separate what’s documented from what’s hoped for — and to say so.
At a glance
- Education
- B.A. Journalism — Strategic Communication & Reporting (dual track); Sports Communication Certificate. University of Wisconsin–Madison, expected may 2027.
- Academics
- GPA 3.59 / 4.00 · Dean's List · Eklund & Morris Scholarships · Illinois Seal of Biliteracy (Spanish)
- Speaking
- Top 100 National Speaker · 3× Illinois State Speech Champion
- Languages
- English; Spanish (Illinois Seal of Biliteracy)
- Based in
- Madison, WI / Wheaton, IL