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Student Profile
Ha-Eun Nam
Sport Management Master's Student
Name: Ha-Eun Nam
Program: Sport Management and Social Work
Level or Degree: Master’s
How do master’s degrees in Sport Management and Social Work go together?
I minored in Social Work during my undergraduate degree because U-M doesn’t offer it as a bachelor’s. Social Work has always appealed to me because of my desire to help people, specifically in a non-profit setting. My Master of Social Work concentration is in Management & Leadership. At the same time, I have always loved sports and have been a big sports enthusiast. I love the joy it brings people, and organizations have so many resources and are very charitable in assisting the community.
I researched philanthropy in the sporting industry with Kathy Babiak, professor of Sport Management, during my senior year of undergrad and that sparked my interest in corporate philanthropy. I hope to work in a non-profit setting in the sports industry after graduating.
How has Kinesiology prepared you for your post-graduation goals?
I did not have any background knowledge in sports prior to enrolling; my classmates either had a Business or Sport Management degree already. The Sport Management program has opened my eyes to the different aspects of the sporting industry. It has also allowed me to begin networking and taking advantage of all of the endless opportunities within the program.
What is the most unique thing about the Sport Management program?
I would say the program’s focus is more than just on the business of sports. For example, there is a class on diversity in sports, which is what I am interested in. The program is well-rounded, and I have thoroughly enjoyed my experiences thus far. I also love that in every class I have taken so far, we talk about social activism in sports as well. This has been more relevant in recent years, and I appreciate the professors that see it as something important to mention in class.
The Sport Management program has opened my eyes to the different aspects of the sporting industry. It has also allowed me to begin networking and taking advantage of all of the endless opportunities within the program.
What was your favorite in-class moment?
In my strategy class last semester, my group was picked to give a presentation in front of executives and coaches from the Motor City Cruise, the G-League affiliate of the Detroit Pistons. It was probably the most nervous I have ever been, but it was a cool experience and a lot of fun.
How have you grown professionally, academically, or personally since you started at U-M?
Academically, I am more interested in what I am learning now compared to my undergraduate studies. Sport Management is a growing field, and I have enjoyed what I am learning and can tangibly think about how I can apply this to my future goals. Personally, the in-class presentations are helpful because presenting information is a big part of the sports industry, and my confidence grows with every presentation.
My goal after graduation is to work for a sports team’s foundation, so it has been nice to network and make connections, specifically with the executive director of the Detroit Pistons Foundation.
What is your favorite thing to do in Ann Arbor?
One of my favorite things to do, and in my opinion the best thing to do, is go to U-M football games. Michigan football games are life changing and are such great experiences. My hope is that everyone can attend at least one game.