Key Insights
Throughout my academic journey and professional experiences, I’ve gained valuable insights that have shaped my growth, career direction, and leadership style. By combining classroom knowledge with real-world experience, I’ve developed a stronger understanding of how successful events are executed and how effective teams operate behind the scenes. The following key insights reflect how my education and engagement beyond the classroom have prepared me to lead and contribute meaningfully to the sport and entertainment industry.
Related artifacts referenced below are located on the “Artifacts” page of this portfolio.
Insight #1: Dependability is the Foundation of Effective Leadership
In every role I’ve held—from interning with the Columbia Fireflies to working high-profile events like The Masters and the College Football Playoff—I’ve learned that showing up consistently, working hard, and following through are the most respected forms of leadership. The live event industry is physically and mentally demanding, and those who succeed are the ones who can be relied on when it matters most.
During my internship with the Charleston RiverDogs, I embraced a “first one in, last one out” mindset. Whether I was running point on Segra Club food service, flipping furniture for a quick room turnover, or coordinating timing with the kitchen staff, my goal was always to be someone my team could depend on.
In HTMT 344 – Personnel Organization & Supervision, I learned about supervision strategies, employee motivation, and the importance of accountability systems. Additionally, RETL 242 – HRSM Professional Communications helped reinforce how professionalism and clarity can enhance your dependability and leadership presence in the workplace.
Related Artifacts (see “Artifacts” page):
Insight #2: Clear Systems and Communication Drive Team Efficiency
During my internship with the Charleston RiverDogs, I quickly learned how essential clear systems and internal communication are to the success of any event. Our schedules changed daily, responsibilities shifted constantly, and we often had multiple events happening within the same 24-hour window. Without tools to track priorities and timelines, even high-performing teams can fall behind or become misaligned.
To help address this, our Events team introduced a centralized whiteboard system in our office. While I didn’t initiate the idea, I worked closely with our Director of Events and Assistant GM to determine how it should be organized. I helped format the layout and categorize tasks into daily, weekly, and monthly goals, while also incorporating visual elements like event timelines and field layouts. Though used primarily within our Events office, the whiteboard has become a central point of reference during cross-departmental meetings with Food & Beverage and Stadium Operations ahead of larger events. I now manage and update the board regularly, using it to guide team members, clarify expectations, and streamline communication.
As I became more comfortable in the role, I also identified another area that needed improvement: supply readiness in the Segra Club. To reduce the stress of last-minute setups and avoid running out of key items during events, I developed an inventory tracking system for club supplies — including plates, utensils, handywicks, snacks, and linens. This tool made it easier for our Events and Food & Beverage teams to restock proactively and stay prepared for busy stretches, especially during multi-event weekends and home stands.
Both of these systems — the whiteboard and the inventory tracker — allowed me to take ownership in ways that elevated our daily workflow and improved team coordination. In RETL 242 – Professional Communications, as well as SPTE 444 – Event Management, I learned about the importance of contingency planning, team delegation, clear communication methods, and operational schedules. Those classroom principles came to life in this role, as I applied them to real-time planning, cross-functional communication, and problem-solving.
Related Artifacts (see “Artifacts” page):
Insight #3: Great Guest Experiences Are Built Through Cross-Department Collaboration
Whether I’m working with kitchen staff to finalize a catering plan or coordinating bar coverage for a large Segra Club event, I’ve learned that every successful guest experience depends on strong collaboration across departments. In my current role, I oversee setup, timing, communication, execution, and cleanup—all while making sure each team has what they need to do their job well.
As the FOH lead, I’ve had to anticipate needs, adjust timelines, and keep everyone—from waitstaff to bartenders—in sync. These experiences have taught me to think holistically and communicate constantly. The better we collaborate behind the scenes, the smoother the guest experience becomes.
In SPTE 380 – Sport and Entertainment Marketing, I learned about guest experience models and how behind-the-scenes service directly impacts brand perception. SPTE 440 – SPTE Business and Finance also helped me understand the financial implications of guest satisfaction—how good service improves repeat business and premium sales.
Related Artifacts (see “Artifacts” page):