Find a career you’re passionate about.
Jackson Farias followed that advice when he enrolled at UNK.
The Grand Island native graduates summa cum laude next week with a bachelor’s degree in sports management and minors in coaching and marketing/management.
“Sports have always been something I enjoy. I love being both a fan and a participant. It’s the one thing I had a true passion for,” he said. “There are so many things about it to love. Whether you are playing or working behind the scenes, sports bring people joy and bring them together. It is a time when you can forget about everything else and immerse yourself in the moment.”
During his time on campus, Farias has been part of the Sport and Recreation (SpRec) Club and Undergraduate Research Fellows program.
He’s completing an internship with the Grand Island YMCA, working alongside sports director Nate Smith. This includes assisting with a variety of sports leagues and events, as well as coaching kindergarten and first grade soccer teams.
“I’ve learned the ins and outs of setting up leagues – everything from the registration process to making sure we have all the necessary equipment to supervising the sessions themselves,” he explained. “But most of all, I’ve learned interpersonal skills. Watching how our sports director handles parents and kids has taught me a lot about working with people, managing conflict and communicating.”
Farias also gained valuable experience as an assistant coach for the Grand Island Central Catholic girls tennis team.
“I’ve had the chance to learn from great coaches. I’m learning a lot about the game of tennis, but more importantly, about managing and motivating players,” he said. “It’s been the most fun I’ve had in a long time. The girls are awesome, and they make me look forward to practice every single day.”
After graduation, Farias plans to remain in Grand Island and continue being part of the GICC tennis program.
What are the strengths of the UNK sports management program?
The hands-on experience you get and the many opportunities that are available. The classes are very interactive. They don’t just make you read from a book and then take a test. Instead, they give you real-life scenarios and ask you to work through them. Many of the classes also require you to get involved outside the classroom, which exposes you to the unpredictable world of sports. This program has introduced me to so many areas within the sports field, from coaching to event management to marketing.
Who was the most influential person during your undergraduate career?
Dr. Rachel Silverman, an assistant professor and coordinator for the sport and recreation management program. She has pushed me to become the best student I can be and has opened doors to opportunities I never thought were possible. As the faculty adviser of SpRec Club, she has transformed the club, working tirelessly to improve it and encouraging us to do the same. Above all else, she is just a great person. She believes her students are capable of anything and is always there when we need her.
What was your favorite class?
Intro to Anatomy/Biomechanics, taught by Dr. Scott Unruh. This class was probably the toughest one I had up to that point, but Dr. Unruh made me look forward to class. He encouraged us to think about the material in a practical way and really made sure we understood it, instead of memorizing it. He challenged us to think and figure things out on our own. While he likes to have some fun, crack some jokes and go on rants about things completely off topic, he still expected us to give our best.
What’s your most memorable experience at UNK?
Being part of SpRec Club. The time I spent with my fellow officers – Clare, Gabe and Carley – made my college experience so much more fun. Whether it was meetings, planning events or going on club outings, those are things I’ll look back on and remember the most. Our trips to Las Vegas, Myrtle Beach, Fort Collins and Wichita are all memories I will never forget. And I can’t forget about the SpRec officers group chat.
What’s your favorite thing about UNK?
The sense of community. As a student, you truly feel like you’re part of something bigger. The professors and staff are incredibly supportive, always pushing you to do your best. The students are friendly, and there’s a strong feeling of support among everyone. Whether it’s through your program, a club, a class or other activities, you always feel like you’re part of a family.
If you could go back in time and do something differently, what would it be?
I would get involved a lot earlier. I was never the most outgoing, so it was tough to take that first step. But once I did, it became easier and easier.
Now that you’re graduating, what does this moment mean to you?
This means so much to me. The moment I step across the stage and receive my diploma, it will be the biggest accomplishment of my life. I’m a first-generation college student, and I know it will be a big moment for my family, too. I couldn’t have done it without them. I hope they know how much they mean to me and how big of a part they’ve played in this. I’ve worked hard to graduate, but it truly wouldn’t have been possible without their sacrifice, dedication and support.
What advice do you have for current and future Lopers?
Four years go by quickly, so make the most of your time here. There’s something for everyone, so take some chances and don’t get in your own way!
