Success After Setbacks: Kenneth Hawthorne’s Journey to an MS in Sports Administration

As a Cincinnati native, Kenneth Hawthorne has always felt an affinity for the University of Cincinnati and the Bearcat community. When the time came to pursue his Master of Science in sports administration, Kenneth found that an online master’s degree allowed him more flexibility with his schedule and was a great choice.

We had the pleasure of talking to Kenneth about his experiences, why he chose UC, and what the sports administration program has meant to him!

Kenneth’s Path to Sports Administration

Like many students who enroll in UC’s online programs, Kenneth began his master’s degree many years into his career. He served in the United States Army for six years. After finishing his service, Kenneth worked as a Contract Administrator for the Department of Defense prior to pursuing his bachelor’s degree in business.

In 2021, he “embarked on a new chapter” and decided to pursue his master’s degree. While Kenneth was initially unsure of what he might gain from the sports administration program, he found great value in learning from various professors. He’s gained “a vast knowledge of the athletic community,” he recalls. “It met all expectations of an excellent graduate program and meets the standard of higher learning.”

The Benefits of Online Learning

Prior to starting his program, Kenneth had already completed prior degree programs online. Because of this, he already felt comfortable with the online format. “It enables students to balance work and family life while still receiving an excellent education,” Kenneth says. He felt he received the same education as in-person students and could become his “best self” through his online learning experience.

Another benefit that Kenneth found through online learning was the ability to continue working while earning his degree. He currently works as a sports consultant, a role in which he utilizes the athletic management and administration skills that he’s gained through his program. Although he’s set to graduate later this year, he’s already been able to apply what he’s learned in the real world!

Overcoming Setbacks and Achieving Goals

Kenneth’s educational journey hasn’t been without challenges, but he’s demonstrated immense resilience. As a child with a learning disability, he turned to music to cope with the difficulties he faced. While pursuing his master’s in sports administration, he also navigated significant health issues, such as congestive heart failure and sleep apnea.

In part, Kenneth credits the UC community for supporting him throughout his pursuit of his master’s degree. He also mentions the positive impact of relocating to Colombia in 2021. Because of the flexibility of online learning, Kenneth’s move meant he was able to recuperate in a new city while still focusing on his studies.

Despite facing obstacles along the way, Kenneth remains committed to achieving his dreams in the athletic industry. “As a sports administrator, my goal is to become a general manager for a professional sports organization,” he says. “I will dedicate myself and never give up on my dreams of making the sporting community a better place.”

Advice for Future Students

Kenneth’s biggest piece of advice to future students is to research the programs that interest them. By finding a program that “aligns with their dreams and goals,” students will be set up for success in school and in their future careers.

“If you’re not going to give it your all,” Kenneth adds, “what’s the sense of doing it?” He urges future students to never give up, even when they face challenges. If there’s one thing Kenneth’s story affirms, it’s that “the rewards will outweigh the challenges.”

Interested in Earning an MS in Sports Administration?

Are you inspired by Kenneth’s story? Do you also dream of making a difference in the athletic community? Then an MS in Sports Administration may be perfect for you! You can earn your master’s in an environment that’s both transformative and flexible, no matter what life throws at you.

To learn more about the sports administration program, contact an Enrollment Advisor today! UC’s dedicated online staff is here to assist you every step of the way.