On Friday, March 3, The University of Alabama’s Manderson Graduate School of Business launched its first Business of Sports Symposium (BOSS). Graduate and undergraduate students interested in pursuing a career in sports had the opportunity to learn from both peers and pros about navigating the path towards an internship and then eventually a career in the field of sports.
The day began with a Q&A panel of current UA students with work experience in the sports industry. Some of that experience includes interning for Under Armour, interning with the NHL, and working for the UA football program. Panelists were asked how they attained these internships, what the process looked like transitioning into these positions, and how they differentiated themselves while in the application process and beyond. Students walked away with a better understanding of the work ethic and attention to detail needed to earn a sports industry internship.
The second panel of the day was with several UA alumni who are professionals in the sporting industry. Some of those represented work with professional sports teams, with Crimson Tide Sports Marketing, and with Dicks Sporting Goods. UA students had the chance to hear about what it takes to be a part of a successful sports organization and all the different opportunities within the sporting industry.
After the two panels, everyone attended a lunch which allowed students to sit down and network with the sports professionals as well as fellow students. After lunch was a keynote from Manderson alumnus Ben Godwin. As Vice President of Licensing at Catapult, a sports software and entertainment company, Godwin was able to provide a unique perspective on the rapidly evolving industry. To cap off an exciting day was another dessert and networking session for students.
A number of students spoke highly of the experience and how grateful they were to be able to participate, and how they are already excited for next years symposium. And Jack Fenimore (BS, Finance, 2015), marketing manager for the Houston Texans, said,
It was a tremendous pleasure to return to the Capstone and connect with an impressive group of undergraduate and graduate students. Through interactions in a blend of panel discussion, break-out tables and networking hour, it is evident these students are well prepared to excel in the sports industry. I appreciate the hard work from everyone in the Manderson Graduate School of Business who made the B.O.S.S. successful and established an engaging event that will benefit students pursuing a career in sports for years to come.
The Manderson Graduate School of Business Career Services team discovered a high level of interest in the sports industry through their interactions with students. Kathryn Burroughs, Director of Career Services, and Isaiah Young, Assistant Director of Career Services, wanted to find a way to support Culverhouse and Manderson students seeking to pursue a career in this area, resulting in BOSS.