Name: Chuck. That’s all you need to know.
Occupation: University of Pittsburgh security guard
He may not be a senior (or even a super-senior), but Chuck’s been reppin’ the University of Pittsburgh as a top-notch security guard for over six years. As he stands (or sits) guard over the Baierl gym on weekday afternoons, swiping student after student into the premises, Chuck serves not only as glorious protector, but also as a friend. A buddy. A pal. Despite the colossal number of people who work out at the gym on a given day, Chuck makes sure to greet all with a smile and a warm hello. But we want to know—what’s behind the black-rimmed glasses and cheerful disposition? We set out to learn more about the man behind the desk. Chuck: this week’s Campus Celeb.
HC: Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where are you from?
Chuck: I grow up in Lawrenceville. When I was growing up, it was a bad area. But now, it’s really growing. There are a lot of college students living there, and the housing is real good now.
HC: Have you always worked at the Pete?
Chuck: No. I have been at Pitt six years. I worked the first four years at Ruskin. Before Pitt, I worked in Sales. I did a lot of home remodeling and door-to-door work. While I was doing that, I also worked at Shop ‘n Save. But I am very happy to be working at Pitt.
HC: What is your favorite thing about working at the gym?
Chuck: I like the students. The students are great. I like interacting with them. I feel like we share a special bond.
HC: Aw, we feel the same, Chuck! What’s your favorite thing to talk to students about?
Chuck: Well, at the gym, people’s favorite thing to talk about is sports, whether it be football, basketball, hockey, and even baseball.
HC: So, we take it you can hold your own when it comes to sports-talk. What’re your favorite teams?
Chuck: Yes, yes, I can. And believe it or not, even though I live in Pittsburgh, my favorite team in football would be the New Orleans Saints. I like the quarterback, Drew Brees. But I like Philly sports teams, too, because there are so many good nice people from Philadelphia! It’s the city of brotherly love!
HC: How long are your shifts?
Chuck: My shift is 3-10.
HC: Wow! It sounds like your job really takes up a lot of time. Do you ever find time to work out yourself? What sort of exercise do you like to do?
Chuck: I joined a gym, but it seems like I’m always too tied up to go! I love the benefits of a gym. I like to shoot hoops.
HC: You’re notorious among students for your positive attitude. How do you maintain such a great mood?
Chuck: I try not to be a downer (pronounced “dahner”) for people. Even though sometimes I don’t feel good, I try to have a positive attitude.
HC: Love that. But let’s talk about something else now. Tell us about your interests. What do you like to do when you’re not working?
Chuck: I like visiting the nursing home where my brother and other people I know live. When the weather is warm, I like the outdoors: outdoor swimming pools, or the zoo. I actually love going to the Highland Park Zoo, and seeing people I grew up with. I love going to the mall: buying a nice shirt, or even a coat. Even if I don’t buy anything, I like to just see what’s in fashion.
So there you have it—Pitt’s own sports wizard and fashion connoisseur. Just remember, next time you’re looking for some motivation to drop the Pop-Tarts and hit the gym, just think of the ray of sunshine that is waiting to swipe you in: Chuck, our favorite security guard, and without a doubt a campus celeb.