Paul Schissler said he always wanted to be a comedian, but was too scared to talk in front of people. That is, until he won a Last Comic Standing contest put on by UPC during his senior year at Auburn.
After graduation, Schissler moved to New York City to begin his comedy career. In the past three years, he has appeared on numerous shows, hosted the web series "Man on a Boat" and co-founded Comedy Wire, a site where people can write and share jokes about world news. Schissler said his time in New York so far has been "a lot of blessings," though there have been many bad moments as well, such as being ignored by the audience.
Schissler said his favorite performance recently was playing a host on a fake dating show, where people would pretend to be on a first date. He said he enjoys putting on an act as part of a show, not just performing in a lineup of several other standup comedians.
Tom Brink, another comedian and Schissler's roommate, hosts a variety show in Long Island, New York, and sometimes has Schissler on his show.
"He's probably one of the funniest people I've seen live," Brink said. "Constantly just killing it."
Brink said it was funny to see Schissler trying to hook people up on the fake dating show.
"Even if he is portraying a character that doesn't align with his beliefs ... it's fun to watch," Brink said.
There is a lot of talent and a lot to live up to in New York, according to Brink.
"The most exciting and terrifying thing I've ever done," Brink said.
Recently, Schissler appeared on "The Steve Harvey Show," as part of a segment where a group of virgins was sent on a group blind date. Schissler said he was contacted for the show after writing a magazine article about dating as a Christian virgin in New York City. Schissler said the experience was "very weird." He said his virginity is not a big deal to him.
"[Waiting for marriage] doesn't define me," Schissler said.
Schissler said he enjoyed the process, though it did not become romantic.
"The romantic in me said, 'I'm going to meet my wife,' but that's not realistic," Schissler said.
Schissler said it was cool to get to know other men who share his beliefs and faith, but they did not meet the women until right before the show. He said he was "crazy nervous" for that part.
Schissler said he enjoyed the star treatment during the show.
"Made everyone feel like a celeb," Schissler said.
Schissler said his biggest inspirations have been Jim Carrey and his mother, who raised him.
"Moms are great," Schissler said.
Schissler said he wants to be honest on stage. He said his openness about his beliefs makes him more approachable. He said he wants to make people feel good about choices in their lives.
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