By Jordan Beach
Pickens Scholar Nick DiPuma has seen great support since coming to Reinhardt, allowing him to grow in his art and his academics. Photo by Jordan Beach
Nick DiPuma started his journey with Reinhardt during lessons with the University’s voice faculty and attending the Musical Theatre Summer Intensive, giving him the foundation to pursue his passion.
“Reinhardt was the school that really jumpstarted my progression as an artist, and a person,” said DiPuma.
A resident of Jasper, DiPuma’s freshman year as a musical theatre major has already proven how becoming a Pickens Scholar can unveil amazing opportunities for Reinhardt’s students.
DiPuma has spent his first year as an Eagle getting used to the college lifestyle, saying the biggest challenge he has faced in college has been “adjusting to the atmosphere…managing my time, managing health and trying to remember that at the end of the day, the only person I need to be is myself.”
These challenges haven’t stopped DiPuma from earning a place on the President’s List after his first semester and immersing himself into all Reinhardt has to offer his education as a musical theatre student. DiPuma earned a role in the Halloween showing of “Medea” and recently took on the character of Neville Craven in “The Secret Garden.” He has also expanded his acting career by joining Reinhardt’s improv troupe, “An Excuse to Laugh.”
As a Pickens Scholar, DiPuma said this financial support has helped to make attending the University a reality for him and his family, a choice in which he remains confident.
“At Reinhardt, I have been in the hands of people who care not only about my education, but about my well-being and personal development,” said DiPuma. “They are here to support me through hard times in life and to challenge me each and every day, and for that I am forever grateful.”
There are many ways to support the Pickens Scholars program, including the upcoming .5K Shamrock Stroll on March 16. To learn more, visit reinhardt.edu/stroll.
