Editor’s Note: As Commencement approaches, we are featuring some of our Neag School Class of 2025 graduating students over the coming days.

Major: BS, Sport Management and minor in Digital Marketing and Analytics
Hometown: East Granby, Connecticut

Q: Why did you choose UConn?

A: As a Connecticut native, I grew up admiring UConn’s athletic programs. Choosing UConn felt natural — not only because of that connection but also because of the wide range of academic and experiential opportunities available to students here.

Q: What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?

A: I’m majoring in sport management with a minor in digital marketing and analytics. I’ve always known I wanted to work in sports, and UConn allowed me to shape my academic path around that passion, especially within sport marketing.

Q: Did you have a favorite professor or class?

A: My favorite class was EDLR 3091, the Sport Internship course taught by Dr. Danielle DeRosa. While most of the learning happened outside the classroom, it gave me the most hands-on insight into how an athletic department operates and what it’s really like to work in sports.

Q: What activities were you involved in as a student?

A: I was a member of the UConn club baseball team, interned with UConn Sport Properties and the UConn Athletics marketing department, and was actively involved in the UConn Sport Business Association and the UConn Sport Business Conference.

Q: What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?

A: By the end of my four years, I was surprised at how many familiar faces I had come to recognize — students, professors, and coworkers. UConn started to feel smaller in the best way, and I really appreciated that sense of community.

Q: What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?

A: I plan to pursue a career in the sports industry, ideally within partnerships or sponsorships.

Q: How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?

A: UConn taught me not only technical skills but also how to be adaptable. It helped me grow more independent, become comfortable with uncertainty, and learn through experience — lessons that I know will carry into my career.

UConn taught me not only technical skills but also how to be adaptable. — Michael Santos

Q: Any advice for incoming students?

A: Don’t stay in your dorm all day! Put yourself out there — join clubs, meet new people, try new things. Whether you love it or realize it’s not for you, it’s all part of figuring out what you really enjoy.

Q: What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?

A: Attend the UConn Sport Business Conference — it’s a great opportunity to connect, learn, and get inspired by professionals in the industry.

Q: What will always make you think of UConn?

A: Winning championships — UConn is the Basketball Capital of the World!