10 answers
Jayden
Student
1
Question
Asked
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What school or major do I choose???
I want to pursue a career in sports events: I’m very interested in the creative event planning and decorating, and partnership side of sports, like sponsorship activations, fan experiences, VIP events, and brand collaborations with teams or leagues.
But I'm not sure what major or college would be the perfect fit for me. I've heard most people who major in sports don't end up landing a sports job, so it definitely worries me, but I'm also worried that if I don't major in sports, I won't know as much as others.
I specifically want to go down south for college, as a NJ resident, I'm tired of this area and the weather.
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10 answers
Stefanie Rockers Soles
Program Manager
2
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Stefanie’s Answer
Hi Jayden,
Most of my friends who work in sports management or support NFL, NBA, or baseball teams didn't major in those fields. They studied subjects they were interested in, like marketing, communications, or advertising. Then, they found out which companies the sports teams use for event support or advertising and applied there.
Before college, try to find local paid or unpaid opportunities with sports teams in NJ. This experience will help you show that your skills are transferable when you start college.
Most of my friends who work in sports management or support NFL, NBA, or baseball teams didn't major in those fields. They studied subjects they were interested in, like marketing, communications, or advertising. Then, they found out which companies the sports teams use for event support or advertising and applied there.
Before college, try to find local paid or unpaid opportunities with sports teams in NJ. This experience will help you show that your skills are transferable when you start college.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2574
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Different colleges have strength in different subjects. You better find out what careers you have interest first.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Given you have interest in Sports, would you like to be a coach, sports facilities manager, sport journalist, sports programs host, sport event organizers, sports physiotherapist, etc. You can find out more online.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school careers counselor, your parents,etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to.pursue
5. Do some research on college review on relevant subjects and find out the entry criteria.
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you !
Below are my suggestions :
1. Given you have interest in Sports, would you like to be a coach, sports facilities manager, sport journalist, sports programs host, sport event organizers, sports physiotherapist, etc. You can find out more online.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school careers counselor, your parents,etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to.pursue
5. Do some research on college review on relevant subjects and find out the entry criteria.
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you !
Hi ty! I want to become sports event organizer. God bless you!! this helped a lot
Jayden
Megan Moretta
Revenue & Pricing Manager
2
Answers
Frisco, Texas
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Hello Jayden!
There are a few great options for you out there. And it is easy to get lost in all of the options. As someone who has been in the Hospitality industry for some time, I would suggest a Bachelor's in Event Management. This has the most flexibility as you start out. University of Central Florida Rosen College is in Orlando and has this degree. This school also has the climate you are looking for. Also UCF partners with all of the large sporting ventures in Orlando so there is a lot of opportunity to get your foot in the door. Plenty of sports themed internship opportunities that would lead you where you are trying to go. Good luck out there and stay warm.
-Megan Moretta, Revenue and Pricing Manager
There are a few great options for you out there. And it is easy to get lost in all of the options. As someone who has been in the Hospitality industry for some time, I would suggest a Bachelor's in Event Management. This has the most flexibility as you start out. University of Central Florida Rosen College is in Orlando and has this degree. This school also has the climate you are looking for. Also UCF partners with all of the large sporting ventures in Orlando so there is a lot of opportunity to get your foot in the door. Plenty of sports themed internship opportunities that would lead you where you are trying to go. Good luck out there and stay warm.
-Megan Moretta, Revenue and Pricing Manager
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Jayden
Khozema Kathawala
Consulting
2
Answers
Pennington, New Jersey
Updated
Khozema’s Answer
Consider looking into colleges that offer majors in Sports Management, Media and Communication, or Marketing. These fields match your interests. Visit campuses, research their locations, and see if they're near companies for potential internships or close to sports teams you like.
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Jayden
Nick Sworob
Business Analyst
5
Answers
Tinicum Township, New Jersey
Updated
Nick’s Answer
Hi Jayden, it's fantastic to see you are keeping an open mind and planning for your future! It's great that you've already noticed that not everyone with a sports major ends up in a sports job. In event planning, people often have diverse educational backgrounds. For this field, a college degree might not be necessary at the start. I understand the desire to explore new places, and you can do that without taking on a lot of college debt.
Consider identifying the sports team, company, and location where you want to work. Move there and try to get an entry-level job, ideally with that team or company. Connect with people who have your dream job. While working there, see if they offer education benefits for any degrees you might need. Even if you can't start with your dream company, moving to that area gets you out of NJ, and there are plenty of event planning jobs to gain experience from.
If you decide college is the right path, try to keep your debt low. Here are some tips:
1. Apply for as many scholarships as possible. There are websites available that list scholarships you can apply for. I read a statistic that 100 million dollars in scholarships go unclaimed each year.
2. Consider starting at a community college. It's usually cheaper, and credits can transfer to four-year schools.
3. Out-of-state schools cost more. If you're set on one, move and work there for a year to become a resident and lower tuition costs.
4. Look for companies that offer tuition assistance and work for them while studying.
Wishing you all the best in your journey!
Consider identifying the sports team, company, and location where you want to work. Move there and try to get an entry-level job, ideally with that team or company. Connect with people who have your dream job. While working there, see if they offer education benefits for any degrees you might need. Even if you can't start with your dream company, moving to that area gets you out of NJ, and there are plenty of event planning jobs to gain experience from.
If you decide college is the right path, try to keep your debt low. Here are some tips:
1. Apply for as many scholarships as possible. There are websites available that list scholarships you can apply for. I read a statistic that 100 million dollars in scholarships go unclaimed each year.
2. Consider starting at a community college. It's usually cheaper, and credits can transfer to four-year schools.
3. Out-of-state schools cost more. If you're set on one, move and work there for a year to become a resident and lower tuition costs.
4. Look for companies that offer tuition assistance and work for them while studying.
Wishing you all the best in your journey!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Jayden
Sam Hasrouny
2
Answers
Updated
Sam’s Answer
Hey Jayden! you've got creativity, energy, and you're great with people and brands those are real skills.
But let me give you some honest perspective. The sports event industry is tough. Low starting pay, insane competition, and you're right that most sports management grads struggle to land sports jobs. Not because they lack talent there just aren't enough seats for everyone who wants one.
Now look at where the world is actually heading AI, robotics, electric vehicles, aerospace, engineering. These fields are growing fast, they pay well, and they're hungry for sharp, creative people. A degree in engineering, computer science, or AI opens doors that stay open for decades.
Your personality isn't limited to sports, but your options could get limited if you tie yourself to one of the most competitive industries out there.
I'm not saying forget sports. Build a strong career in tech or engineering first, and if you still love sports you can always find your way in but from a position of strength and financial security. Going the other direction is a lot harder. Point that drive somewhere that gives you freedom and options for the next 30 years. You got this!
But let me give you some honest perspective. The sports event industry is tough. Low starting pay, insane competition, and you're right that most sports management grads struggle to land sports jobs. Not because they lack talent there just aren't enough seats for everyone who wants one.
Now look at where the world is actually heading AI, robotics, electric vehicles, aerospace, engineering. These fields are growing fast, they pay well, and they're hungry for sharp, creative people. A degree in engineering, computer science, or AI opens doors that stay open for decades.
Your personality isn't limited to sports, but your options could get limited if you tie yourself to one of the most competitive industries out there.
I'm not saying forget sports. Build a strong career in tech or engineering first, and if you still love sports you can always find your way in but from a position of strength and financial security. Going the other direction is a lot harder. Point that drive somewhere that gives you freedom and options for the next 30 years. You got this!
Rohit Ramakrishnan
Consultant
5
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Rohit’s Answer
12:38 PMClaude responded: Your interest in sponsorship activations, fan experiences, and brand collaborations is a really exciting and growing career path!Your interest in sponsorship activations, fan experiences, and brand collaborations is a really exciting and growing career path! The good news is you do not need a traditional sports management degree to get there.
Strong majors to consider are Event Management, Marketing, Communications, or Business with a marketing concentration. These are versatile degrees that teach directly transferable skills, and employers in sports honestly care more about your internships and portfolio than your exact major. Pairing any of these with sports business electives or a minor gives you the best of both worlds.
For southern schools, look into University of Florida, University of Georgia, Florida State, University of Tennessee, SMU in Dallas, and Tulane in New Orleans. Many have strong business and communications programs with great alumni networks in sports and entertainment.
The key to breaking into sports is experience, so prioritize schools where you can intern with local teams, venues, or agencies early. Volunteer at events, join event planning clubs, and build a portfolio of real work. That hands on experience will set you apart far more than your major title ever could.
Strong majors to consider are Event Management, Marketing, Communications, or Business with a marketing concentration. These are versatile degrees that teach directly transferable skills, and employers in sports honestly care more about your internships and portfolio than your exact major. Pairing any of these with sports business electives or a minor gives you the best of both worlds.
For southern schools, look into University of Florida, University of Georgia, Florida State, University of Tennessee, SMU in Dallas, and Tulane in New Orleans. Many have strong business and communications programs with great alumni networks in sports and entertainment.
The key to breaking into sports is experience, so prioritize schools where you can intern with local teams, venues, or agencies early. Volunteer at events, join event planning clubs, and build a portfolio of real work. That hands on experience will set you apart far more than your major title ever could.
Steven Padilla
Consultant
3
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Steven’s Answer
Hi Jayden, here's some advice for you. Passion and a degree are great, but landing a job in your desired field requires hard work and persistence. If you're aiming for a career in Sports Events, having a degree in sports helps, but it's also crucial to talk to people in the industry. This will give you insights into what skills you need and how to stand out. Remember, many people study one thing but end up in a different career. As time goes on, your college major might matter less. Keep your goal in mind, learn about the roles you want, and connect with industry professionals. You can do this!
Rohit Ramakrishnan
Consultant
5
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Rohit’s Answer
Your interest in sponsorship activations, fan experiences, and brand collaborations is a really exciting and growing career path!Your interest in sponsorship activations, fan experiences, and brand collaborations is a really exciting and growing career path! The good news is you do not need a traditional sports management degree to get there.
Strong majors to consider are Event Management, Marketing, Communications, or Business with a marketing concentration. These are versatile degrees that teach directly transferable skills, and employers in sports honestly care more about your internships and portfolio than your exact major. Pairing any of these with sports business electives or a minor gives you the best of both worlds.
For southern schools, look into University of Florida, University of Georgia, Florida State, University of Tennessee, SMU in Dallas, and Tulane in New Orleans. Many have strong business and communications programs with great alumni networks in sports and entertainment.
The key to breaking into sports is experience, so prioritize schools where you can intern with local teams, venues, or agencies early. Volunteer at events, join event planning clubs, and build a portfolio of real work. That hands on experience will set you apart far more than your major title ever could.
Strong majors to consider are Event Management, Marketing, Communications, or Business with a marketing concentration. These are versatile degrees that teach directly transferable skills, and employers in sports honestly care more about your internships and portfolio than your exact major. Pairing any of these with sports business electives or a minor gives you the best of both worlds.
For southern schools, look into University of Florida, University of Georgia, Florida State, University of Tennessee, SMU in Dallas, and Tulane in New Orleans. Many have strong business and communications programs with great alumni networks in sports and entertainment.
The key to breaking into sports is experience, so prioritize schools where you can intern with local teams, venues, or agencies early. Volunteer at events, join event planning clubs, and build a portfolio of real work. That hands on experience will set you apart far more than your major title ever could.
Stella Giraldella
Private Chef & Culinary Entrepreneur
18
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Stella’s Answer
If your goal is to work in sports events, sponsorship activations, fan experiences, VIP hospitality, and brand partnerships, I would recommend looking beyond just a Sports Management degree. Many successful professionals in these areas have backgrounds in Hospitality Management, Marketing, Business Administration, Communications, and Sports Management.
Personally, because I love sports, my dream was always to work with athletes and be involved in the sports industry. While attending Florida International University (FIU), I volunteered whenever possible with the sports department to gain hands-on experience and learn how athletic programs and events operate behind the scenes. Those experiences taught me valuable skills that could never be learned in a classroom alone.
My advice is to choose a major that provides both strong career opportunities and transferable skills. Hospitality Management is an excellent option if you enjoy event planning, guest experiences, VIP programs, and large-scale event operations. Marketing is ideal for sponsorships, partnerships, fan engagement, and brand activations. Business Administration provides a broad foundation that can lead to leadership and management roles across many industries, including sports.
Most importantly, focus on gaining real-world experience through internships and volunteer opportunities. In my experience, volunteer work and internships are the best ways to learn because you are practicing in a real environment, building professional relationships, and discovering what you truly enjoy. The sports industry values experience, networking, and a strong work ethic just as much as your degree.
Don't worry too much about having the "perfect" major. Focus on finding a program you enjoy, then actively seek internships, volunteer positions, and networking opportunities in sports organizations. Those experiences will help you stand out and often matter more than the title of your degree.
Good luck! The fact that you already know you are interested in sports events, sponsorships, and fan experiences puts you ahead of many students who are still trying to discover their passion.
Personally, because I love sports, my dream was always to work with athletes and be involved in the sports industry. While attending Florida International University (FIU), I volunteered whenever possible with the sports department to gain hands-on experience and learn how athletic programs and events operate behind the scenes. Those experiences taught me valuable skills that could never be learned in a classroom alone.
My advice is to choose a major that provides both strong career opportunities and transferable skills. Hospitality Management is an excellent option if you enjoy event planning, guest experiences, VIP programs, and large-scale event operations. Marketing is ideal for sponsorships, partnerships, fan engagement, and brand activations. Business Administration provides a broad foundation that can lead to leadership and management roles across many industries, including sports.
Most importantly, focus on gaining real-world experience through internships and volunteer opportunities. In my experience, volunteer work and internships are the best ways to learn because you are practicing in a real environment, building professional relationships, and discovering what you truly enjoy. The sports industry values experience, networking, and a strong work ethic just as much as your degree.
Don't worry too much about having the "perfect" major. Focus on finding a program you enjoy, then actively seek internships, volunteer positions, and networking opportunities in sports organizations. Those experiences will help you stand out and often matter more than the title of your degree.
Good luck! The fact that you already know you are interested in sports events, sponsorships, and fan experiences puts you ahead of many students who are still trying to discover their passion.