Hometown: Cincinnati, OH

Degree: M.S. in Sport Administration, 2008

What are the responsibilities of your current position?

I support the sales staff and decrease attrition through sponsorship activation and contract fulfillment.

• Act as liaison between TCU, corporate partners, local, regional and national staff
• Provide flawless contract execution and deliver on all sales commitments
• Manage merchandise, tickets, autographed items, and other related hospitality items
• Organize and manage partner events
• Serve as main property contact for IMG Sponsor Services team and client contact
• Develop ongoing, meaningful client relationships to decrease client attrition
• Provide impeccable customer service

How did your education at MSU help prepare you for your field?

As a former student-athlete at Belmont University, I never realized all the planning, passion and dedication my sport administration team contributed to the betterment of both my educational and professional development. As a GA in Athletic Academics at MSU, I quickly realized how important it was to have that same passion and determination to help students succeed. During my studies, my professors gave practical examples and provided many opportunities for internships which shaped the way I work in sport today. Because of my education at MSU, I was equipped with successful interview/networking skills, sports knowledge and marketing techniques to add value to the work environment. My favorite experience at MSU was game day operations during football, basketball and baseball seasons. There, I was able to learn the “ins-and-outs” of successful operations and key marketing strategies to increase fan affinity. Or, as my professors would say, “put butts in seats.” I am very grateful for my experience at MSU and remember fondly the great memories with my awesome team.

What advice would you give current students looking for internships or jobs in your field?

Figure out what you would do for free, what makes you excited to get up in the morning, then make a career out of it. Do your research. Don’t e-mail, don’t text, don’t Facebook. Pound the pavement. Pick up the phone. Setup a real, in-person meeting. Research the company. Wear a suit. Bring your resume. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Shake his/her hand and look him/her straight in the eyes. Send a handwritten “thank you” note. Keep in touch with the company. Clean up your social media, that is your brand and companies will look at your profiles.