Many students hope to turn their love of sports into a promising career. For Charlie Farris, a junior at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, this love quickly became a professional ambition after being introduced to UMSL’s sports management program. Fueled by the unique opportunities offered through this program, from hands-on event experience to industry networking, Farris knew he wanted to get involved.
“What sparked my interest in sports management was seeing the crazy trips that the program goes on, such as the Super Bowl. As a former athlete, I always had a love for sports and wanted to explore the business side that many people don’t get to see or even think of,” Farris said.
In April, Farris joined fellow UMSL student Andrew Price and faculty member Karen Boleska on a trip to San Antonio, Texas, for the NCAA Men’s Final Four. The group traded a typical classroom setting for courtside action, gaining hands-on experience by working events including the River Rally Parade and Music Fest, which featured headliner Chris Stapleton.
“Working the Final Four in San Antonio was a great learning experience,” Farris said. “We had the opportunity to be a part of the street team, work the music festival that was headlined by Chris Stapleton, and be a part of the Green Team during the national championship game.” For Farris, the highlight of the trip came during the excitement of the final game. “My favorite part of the event was when Florida won the game and just seeing their fans go absolutely crazy when they pulled off the come-from-behind win,” Farris said.
The trip wasn’t just fun, it also helped Farris build valuable experience and professional connections in the sports industry.
Left to right: Andrew Price, Charlie Farris, Karen Boleska (Belma Mujakic)
“This trip helped me grow professionally because I got to network with tons of other sport management students from all over the country and even network with industry professionals who can provide guidance for me later down the line,” Farris said.
He encourages other students to take advantage of similar opportunities.
“My advice to sport management students is to get involved,” Farris said.
“Going on trips allows you not only to work some of the biggest sporting events in the world, but to gain relationships and skills that you will carry with you into your professional career.”
