Student Testimonial- Michael C.

Michael is a student in the University of Cincinnati’s online Master of Science in Sport Administration program. Michael shared with us his experience in the master’s program, and how he balances work, life and getting his degree online.

UC: Where do you work? What is your job title?

Michael: I currently work at FanGate Solutions, as a full-time intern.

UC: What are your responsibilities at FanGate?

Michael: Answer phone calls for the Performance Racing Industry and tickets, assist customers with any ticket or membership related issues, and travel to different events around the country to assist companies with ticket operations. I also work with other staff around the country to successfully do the tasks of an event manager. I’ve completed a recruitment project for two separate events!

UC: What is your target graduation date?

Michael: August 2024

UC: What motivated you to seek your Master’s in Sport Administration?

Michael: I have my bachelor’s in exercise science because I really love sports and how the body moves. I have the option of being a coach at any level. Also, I want to work in athletic administration, so I wanted to get my master’s as well. I kind of have the option if I want to be a coach I can, and vice versa for athletic admin.

UC: Why did you select University of Cincinnati, and are you happy with your choice?

Michael: I chose UC because most of the people I went to High School with went to (or is still) at UC and they all loved it. Sometimes I do wish I went on campus because I have heard so many amazing things about the school. But overall, I am extremely happy with my choice. I actually got my internship from UC, and it is the best thing I have ever been part of. The opportunities are literally endless because the professors are great and care about your future.

UC: How do you handle the school, work, life balance while in the program?

Michael: During my undergrad, I was a student athlete, so my time management skills got better as I got older. So, my skills were put to the test this fall semester as a full-time student and a full-time intern. On Mondays, I would write down all my assignments for the week and the readings or videos I had to do to complete the assignment. Next, I would knock out the assignment that will take the least amount of time for me to complete. Then slowly work on the more complex assignments throughout the week. I would work on my assignments during the down time of my internship so I would not have very much to do after I am done at 5:00PM.

I also know myself and how I work best. I know that if I am really tried, not much will get done. So, I try and work on assignments while I have the energy and I’m in the flow of working. The cherry on top of the semester is during the weekends, I would travel all over to different events. I also knew that I would not want to read or finish any assignment in the car, after a long event, or after I have gotten home from a 14-hour day. So weekly scheduling was very important so I could maximize my time off and the free time I had during my internship.

Michael C., University of Cincinnati Master of Science in Sport Administration student, 2023. 

UC: What is a favorite memory or proud moment in the SPAD program thus far?

Michael: I have had a lot of mini victories because I am not a reader. I do not like to read, and it is hard for me to sit down and read something, especially something that does not interest me. Throughout school, I always had issues reading and comprehending every detail because it was not interesting to me. I read every inch of every chapter that was assigned, and I am super proud of myself. Luckily, I am interested in my program, so that is a good thing. Also, I am proud that I understand the information. My undergrad classes were all science based and I was nervous I was not going to understand the concepts because of my history. On the flip side, I understand everything, and I find myself applying the concepts I have learned when I go to different sporting events.

UC: How will your degree help you in your career?

Michael: This degree will be a tremendous help to my career. I have learned so much this semester and I am excited to learn more next semester. Having a master’s degree is huge and it will look even better on a resume because it came from UC.

UC: Do you have any advice for future students looking into the SPAD program?

Michael: The advice that I have is what you put into this is what you get out of it. Read all the content for the classes because it will help in the future. You could just cheat your way through the class just to get a good grade, but that does not benefit anyone. There are several opportunities sent our way and take advantage of each opportunity because it could be something huge in the future.

UC: For someone who may have never taken an online course before, how would you describe the experience?

Michael: Online courses are great because you can work at your own pace. Assignments are due for the most part on Sunday at 11:59 EST and the lesson opens on Monday normally at 8am. So, you can work on that assignment at any time you want and finish it before Sunday. But there is no scheduled lecture which is the best part. You can listen to the lecture at 4am if you want to complete the course work within that time. Also, the professors at UC are very flexible and will help you with any question you may have about quizzes, assignments, projects, etc.

UC: Anything else you would like to add?

Michael: Picking this program at this school was probably the best decision for my financials and career.

If you are ready to take the next step in furthering your education, reach out to an Enrollment Services Advisor to learn more.