What an eye-opening experience
Looking back to when I found out that I was nominated for IDEA's Inspire the Passion Award, I was very confused as to where this nomination had come from and what the award represented. But before I went on to find those answers, I looked at everything that I needed to do in order to be eligible. I had to answer a list of questions, make 2 videos, submit my resume, and have two people write me a recommendation letter. It was a lot, but I knew it was doable. I, then, went on to find out that Carl, my boss from the Philadelphia Union, had nominated me for this award once I completed my internship with them. That alone took me by a pleasant surprise because while I genuinely enjoyed my time with the Union and did as much as I could, it was heartwarming to know that someone noticed my efforts and thought that I deserved to be recognized.
The winner of this award has the privilege to attend a five-day conference, all expenses paid, and have the opportunity to network with professionals in the game-day production industry. I knew that this opportunity could be a game-changer with only one more year until I hope to enter the same industry.
As one of the faces of Widener University Admissions, I was preparing to head to an event with high school guidance counselors from across the country. This event was for the counselors to get a better sense of Philadelphia and why Widener is such a great institution. One reason that I was asked to talk with the guidance counselors was because they would be receiving a tour of Talen Energy Stadium, home to the Philadelphia Union, and I was asked to speak about the numerous internship opportunities that Widener students can take advantage of. As I prepared to leave, I received a phone call from Brandon Meier, telling me that I was one of three recipients of the Inspire the Passion Award. I was completely blown away and it made it even more special that I was going to the Union stadium moments later. It felt like fate.
As July 9th approached, I got more and more excited. Nerves were definitely present, since I had no idea what exactly to expect. The first night was full of meeting new people and introducing myself. My nerves started to settle and I was even more excited for what was to come the next few days. From July 9th to July 12th, I spent the day networking with people from across the country in the game-day presentation industry from the NFL, MLB, MLS, NBA, and NCAA. In addition to meeting new people, I was also able to attend workshops on new technology and tour the Philadelphia sport stadiums.
I definitely took in all of the opportunities that were made available to me. As someone that grew up in the Philadelphia area, I had already attended each of the stadiums. But this conference made it special and allowed me to do things that would have never been a possibility otherwise. It was a lot of fun to be able to walk on the Eagles field and partake in target practice. Having all of these professionals cheering me on as I threw a football and being able to strike a conversation about it later was remarkable. At Citizens Bank Park, I was able to partake in batting practice and then catch fly balls in the outfield. Once again, even though I've been at the Phillies stadium, I've never been able to touch the grass, let alone catch a ball or swing the bat. But, in addition to those once in a lifetime opportunities, it was amazing to see how much of a family these professionals are, even if they only see each other once a year. It also showed that the passion in this field is a lot deeper than the paycheck. It's the overall experience.
Between the people that I met and the activities that I played a part in, it led me to be even more passionate than I already was. On the final night of the conference, all 580 attendees were present at the Golden Matrix Award ceremony at the Franklin Institute. This award ceremony awards various teams in certain categories: Best Fan Experience, Best Tribute Video, etc. At this ceremony, myself and the other two recipients were awarded on stage and were given the opportunity to speak in front of everyone. This speech gave me the chance to truly thank everyone that talked with me and gave me advice. It was a chance for me to show how honored I was to be included in such a life-changing conference and my love for the industry. I was definitely nervous, but it was so worth it.
(See speech below)
I woke up the next morning ready to check out and go home. But not "ready" because I wanted to go home, but because I had to. I reflected on my time and the experiences that I would cherish forever. I found myself so ready to join these professionals in the workplace, but came to the quick realization that I still have one more year of school. I will be using this experience to motivate myself when my senior year may get tough or when I hit doubts or obstacles. I am so thankful to be staying in contact with so many successful and talented people. While I look forward to enjoying my last year of college, I cannot wait to see what the future has in store. Hopefully, I will be able to join them all again.
