Sports Administration
Successful networking can be an essential component for entry into the sports field. Northwestern University's MSA program provides a range of networking opportunities that provide MSA students and alumni with a competitive advantage as they begin and look to advance in their careers.
“In the sports industry, any type of relationship you can form is a step in the right direction,” said Jane Obringer, a student in Northwestern University School of Professional Studies’ Master of Arts in Sports Administration program. Recently, Jane and 15 other students from the program took a big step in the right direction when they attended a private tour of the Big Ten Conference headquarters in Rosemont, Illinois. Read more.
MSA students got a behind-the-scenes look at operations at Soldier Field on a special tour led by Bryan Pett, director of stadium operations and Bob Laskowski, director of stadium experience for the Chicago Bears. “This was not your typical stadium tour,” said student Kevin Mroz. “The tour focused on how Solider Field runs. It was great to hear from Chicago Bears employees and go to parts of the stadium that are usually off limits.”
Northwestern’s Master of Arts in Sports Administration Student Board arranged for a group of students to attend a Chicago Fire game against the Philadelphia Union at Toyota Park in Bridgeview. But it was more than a chance to spend time with fellow students. The event included a behind-the-scenes tour and a Q & A session with Mike Ernst, the Fire's vice president of ticket sales.
The Chicago Blackhawks’ 4–3 shootout win against the St. Louis Blues already had the hometown crowd at the United Center roaring — and for 20 students from Northwestern's Master of Arts in Sports Administration program, the ice hockey faceoff had an extra element of excitement. Before the game the students met with Chicago Blackhawks President and CEO John McDonough and Executive Vice President Jay Blunk to gather insights about working in the world of sports.
MSA students listened as Jed Hoyer provided first-hand industry insight and detailed his experiences and strategies as he rose from Boston Red Sox intern to general manager with the Padres and to his current role as general manager with the Chicago Cubs. “You are pretty fortunate to be involved in this kind of program.” Hoyer said to the audience of current and prospective MSA students, “I wish I had had this in Boston when I was 25.”
