This fall, we are celebrating some of our outstanding students who are graduating this semester. We wish all of our graduating students the best as they begin the next chapter of their journeys.
Name: Natalie Barrett
Hometown: Highland, CA
Program: Sport Management (M.S.)
Why did you choose your program?
I chose Florida State University because of the people and reputation this institution has. I spoke with Dr. Pappas about the Sport Management program, and I knew I had to be a Nole. The involvement that my professors and athletic staff have in the classroom and within the sports industry profession is impressive. Everyone I have met or come across has been helpful throughout many aspects of my life. This experience has been the best decision I ever made. I am most thankful for Dr. Pappas and his eagerness to push me beyond my limits, setting an expectation everyone should strive to meet. He has shaped me into who I am today and cheered me on. This university allows for so much opportunity, and the people around you make it even better.
What's your favorite part of your program?
My favorite part of the Sport Management program has been interacting and learning from my peers, faculty, and athletic staff. I have grown so much and been able to make lifelong connections in a short time. Working isn't always fun, but when you do it with people you care about and who care about you, it makes everything worth it. I enjoy the hands-on experience the faculty and athletic staff have trusted me with. It has given me real-world experience to help prepare me for my future endeavors. Lastly, I enjoy the atmosphere. Tallahassee has been home for a short amount of time. Still, after attending this university and completing my master's in sports management, I can say that Florida State University will always be home.
What do you want to do after you graduate?
After I graduate, I plan to work in a professional league or Power Five institution as a Director of Operations or Recruiting Operations. Although this has yet to be set in stone, I am also interested in player development, coaching, academics, and international sports. In the distant future, I plan to be an athletic director at a Power Five institution. I chose the sports industry because of my fascination and knowledge of sports. From a young age, I have been involved with sports. Seeing my parents make careers in sports, and now my sisters and I are doing the same. I knew by second grade I wanted to work in the sports industry in some capacity. This has always been a passion of mine. As a student-athlete and sister of student-athlete siblings, I have seen the good and bad of sports. My ‘why’ has become clear: I want to ensure student-athletes have an unforgettable experience at their chosen university. I want to help them beyond sports and into their chosen career paths. I want to share my knowledge and coach the next group of athletes. I want to be an advocate for all the good and bad. It is very complex, but I am just getting started.
