Getting to Know You: Jaeda Ballard
Jaeda Ballard — Sport Management
Minor: Communication
Hometown: Tacoma, WA
Year: Junior
What makes this program special and what do you like most about the department?
The Sport Management community is a very close knit and welcoming community. The Sport Management classes offered have relatively small and intimate class sizes which allow you to get to know your peers and your professors. The professors are extremely helpful and genuinely care about the future of their students.
What is your dream job after college?
My dream job after college would be working in Community Relations for a professional sports team.
What do you hope to get out of your career?
I hope to help bridge the gap between marginalized youth and the professional athletes that they greatly admire and look up to. I believe that all youth, no matter their socioeconomic background, deserve equal access and opportunity to further their love of sports.
Do you have any advice for incoming freshman pursuing this degree?
It is extremely important to make connections and to start networking early! You will need letters of recommendation as well as references for future scholarship, internship, or job opportunities.
What kind of extracurricular activities are you a part of?
I am currently the President of Coug Guys and Gals which is a hospitality based program through WSU athletics.
Favorites:
- Professor: David Leonard
- Artist: SZA
- Food: French Fries
- Celebrity: Beyoncé, Rihanna
- Quote: “The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.” ― Oprah Winfrey