Skip to main content Skip to navigation
Washington State University
College of Education

Getting to Know You: Olivia Bonsen

Olivia Bonsen – Sports Management Undergraduate Student

Hometown: Lynden, WA
Major: Sports Management
Minor: Communication
Year: Senior

Why did you choose Washington State University?

Both of my parents are huge Coug fans. I was one of those little babies who was always wearing the Coug onesie. I came here for FFA in high school and as I was checking out the campus it really made me want to be a Coug. Just from the first visit it felt like home and I knew nothing was going to beat this campus.

Who, or what, influenced your decision to pursue this degree?

My hometown is very obsessed with sports. Especially high school sports. So I grew up loving it too. My dad and I both love sports and always are talking about it. I didn’t even know sports management was an option, but once I did I realized it was for me. I always say that sports management is like wedding planning but for sports.

Who, or what, influenced your decision to pursue this degree?

I love that I can get actual experience. We have three different practicum where we work with different organizations. I’ve done mine and it allowed me to get real world experience before I graduate and has really helped me to expand my resume as well.

What is your dream job after college?

I want to work for the WIAA, Washington Interscholastic Activities Association. They oversee all the high school sports in the state of Washington. I’m hoping to do my internship with them over the summer.

Do you have any advice for incoming freshman pursuing this degree?

Keep an open-mind and pursue opportunities that may not be blatantly available. I remember just reaching out to this organization in my hometown and explained what I can do for them and I became an assistant for them. Pursue opportunities that just interest you.

What kind of extracurricular activities are you a part of?

In one of my classes we are planning and running an event. My group is working on a women’s flag football tournament and we are doing it the Monday of Homecoming week. We hope to include women from all over campus including female clubs and sororities. We are raising money for the organization called Every Women Can. They focus on helping women who can’t afford women’s healthcare.


Favorites:

Class: Sport Management 365 – Moral and Ethics in Sports
Professor: Corrie McGrath & Dr. Scott Jedlicka
Sport: Basketball
Movie: Mulan
Pullman Restaurant: Porch Light Pizza
Place to Study: Thomas Hammer Coffee