Name

Christina Early

School

University of Oregon

Degree Program

First year MBA student in Sports Business with a focus in Marketing and Promotions

Previous Degrees

Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from University of Oregon; Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from University of Oregon; Certificate of Global Management from University of Oregon

Advisor

None

Hobbies

Exercise, dancing, cooking, traveling

Graduate School – Application Process

How did you select your graduate school and program?

I selected University of Oregon for my MBA in sports business because I went there for my undergraduate studies. The sports business program is very competitive, so when I applied early, I also began working on several other program applications. When University of Oregon decided to accepted my application, I felt lucky and did not continue looking at other universities.

The sports business program values well-rounded education, which appeals to me. Although sales has always been an area I favor and I have a solid grasp of mathematics, I struggle with finance. This program, however, ensures that I receive the education I need to address that weakness.

What did you do to prepare yourself for graduate school?

I prepared for graduate school mostly by focusing on the application and doing a thorough job on each piece. I studied hard for the GMAT test, which is the standard exam that most MBA programs require applicants to take. I also put effort into obtaining strong letters of recommendation.

Did your application requirements include standardized test scores?

Yes, my application required GMAT test scores. In the end, my scores were decent enough to qualify me for the program.

How did you choose faculty to approach for letters of recommendation?

I chose 2 former professors to write my letters of recommendation. One of these professors was an associate athletic director who I interned with during my undergraduate studies. I suspect he used his standing with the university to help me get into the program.

What types of questions were asked in your admissions interview?

During my admissions interview, the interviewer asked me about the industry in which I planned to work after graduation, my relevant work experience and what I hoped to gain from the program.

Do you have any other tips for a student who is considering applying to graduate school in sports business?

Yes, I advise those interested in this program to make sure it aligns with their goals before applying. This program does not allow students to change their major halfway through. Students must be passionate and committed to the program from the start.

Graduate School – The Program

How long is your program and how is the curriculum distributed?

My MBA program in sports business at University of Oregon takes 2 years to complete, although the accelerated track of my program takes only 18 months. My program has no thesis requirement and is entirely coursework, class project and networking focused.

Does your program have an special project component?

Yes, my program involves a 2-term project that will cap my education. Students are tasked with researching an assigned real-world business and determining its business problems and strategies for improving the company’s profits and efficiency. At the end of the project, students present their solutions for the business. This project allows students to take their classroom education and apply it in a real-world scenario.

How does a masters program differ from undergraduate study?

The biggest difference between my masters and undergraduate programs has been the seriousness of the program. Undergraduate students can try on different majors to find one that works, but at the graduate level, students are stuck in the program to which they applied.

Graduate School – Paying for It

How much does your masters degree program cost?

Tuition for my masters program costs tens of thousands of dollars, but because I work for the university, my tuition is waived. I also receive a monthly stipend of $1,000.

Secondary costs for my program include housing, books and health insurance. These add about $5,000 a year to my expenses.

How are you funding your education?

The tuition waiver and stipend cover the majority of my funding, and I take out subsidized student loans to cover any additional expenses.

How difficult do you anticipate it will be to pay off your loans after graduation?

I feel that my student loan amounts are reasonable and that I should have no difficulty paying them off after graduation, provided that I have a steady income.

Graduate School – Living Life

What are the time commitments for a masters in sports business?

Each term, I take 16 credit hours, which translates to 60 hours a week spent either in class or doing homework. As a result, I am typically on campus from 9 in the morning until about 9 in the evening working as a tutor, studying or in class. I frequently finish coursework assignments on the weekends, and I can count on having a day and a half off during the week.

How has graduate school affected your personal life?

My school and work responsibilities take up most of my time, which greatly affects my ability to have a personal life. I try to schedule time for myself, but that is not always possible.

Graduate School – After Graduation

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years, I see myself in a sales and marketing position, ideally with ESPN or a large-scale, respected company. My dream has always been to do promotions and marketing for ESPN. College games, for example, require a great deal of event planning. I can see myself helping with those events and traveling along with the teams. In addition, I hope to be living somewhere sunnier and more professionally oriented than Oregon.

Graduate School - Advice

What insights can you offer a student who is interested in pursuing a masters degree in sports business?

The most important advice that I have for students considering a masters in sports business is to have passion for the field, be bold and network at every opportunity. A graduate degree is hard work and those who are not passionate will find it difficult to keep up.

Likewise, students need to channel that passion into their self-confidence. Boldness means speaking up in class and pursuing opportunities whenever and wherever they present themselves. It also helps with networking. Students should stick themselves out there and shake hands with everyone they meet. Professors and professional contacts can open doors to opportunities. And competitive internships will be easier to obtain if someone within the organization puts in a good word.