We are preparing for another Benedict College Commencement as our graduates depart to serve. Here’s a glimpse of where a few students from the Class of 2023 are headed.
In what ways did Benedict prepare you for your career goals?
As a graduate student with a major in Sport Management and a concentration in Athletic Administration, Benedict College has provided me with a strong foundation to pursue my career goals of becoming an Athletic Director in the future.
The program has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the sports industry, including the business and legal aspects of sports, facility management, and event planning. These are all essential skills that are necessary for success as an Athletic Director.
Furthermore, the program has given me opportunities to gain practical experience through internships and hands-on projects, which has allowed me to apply the knowledge and skills I have acquired in the classroom to real-world situations. This practical experience has been invaluable in preparing me for my future role as an Athletic Director.
In addition to the academic and practical aspects of the program, Benedict College has also offered me networking opportunities with professionals in the sports industry. The program has connected me with alumni and professionals in the field, which has been a great resource for mentorship and career guidance. These connections have given me insight into the day-to-day operations of an athletic department and the skills necessary to excel as an Athletic Director.
Overall, I believe that Benedict College has provided me with a well-rounded education and the necessary tools to pursue my career goals in sport management and athletic administration, specifically as an Athletic Director. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that the program has afforded me, and I am confident that I am well-prepared to enter the sports industry and make a positive impact.
What activities were you involved in at Benedict (include clubs, organizations, internships, etc.)?
During my time at Benedict College, I was involved in a number of activities that helped me develop my skills and interests in sports management and athletic administration. One of the most significant experiences was my involvement in Infinity Sports Connection, a sports marketing and consulting firm that I founded while I was in Georgia for the summer.
Through Infinity Sports Connection, I had the opportunity to work with a range of clients, including youth sports organizations, high schools, and community groups. One of our most impactful projects was helping to plan and execute a “Kids Day of Play” event for a local community organization. The event was held at the Boundary Waters Activity Center, which provided a great outdoor space for kids to play and have fun.
As part of the project, I helped with the event planning, including setting up the layout for the event and creating banners to promote the event. I also attended meetings with the members of ISC to ensure that we were meeting their needs and expectations.
Through these experiences, I was able to develop a range of skills, including leadership, communication, and project management. I also gained valuable practical experience that has been essential in my work as a sports management professional. Overall, I am grateful for the opportunities that Benedict College provided me to grow and develop as a student and as a future leader in the sports industry.
What will you miss about Benedict?
I’ll miss the intellectual stimulation and academic rigor of working on assignments in sports management. The process of researching, analyzing, and writing essays on topics related to the sports industry can be both challenging and rewarding. I’ll miss the opportunity to conduct interviews with professionals in the field, as this can provide valuable insights and perspectives that you might not otherwise have access to.
Furthermore, as someone interested in sports management, the passion for sports and the business side of the industry is something I’ll continue to pursue even after graduating, which is another thing you may miss about your time at the college.
Finally, I’ll also miss the supportive and collaborative environment of my sports management classes and the relationships you formed with your classmates and professors. Being part of a community of people who share your interests and goals can be a valuable experience, and it is understandable to feel nostalgic for that after graduating.
What is your BEST advice for students who will be enrolling at Benedict in August?
- Get involved
- Seek support
- Manage your time wisely
- Attend class
- Have fun and enjoy the experience
What are your post-graduation plans?
After graduation, I’m planning to pursue teaching opportunities in either physical education or science. I’m looking forward to sharing my knowledge and passion for these subjects with students and helping them to achieve their full potential.
What is your BEST memory of Benedict College?
Working on a thesis can be a challenging but rewarding experience. It allows you to explore a topic of interest in depth, and to demonstrate your skills in research, critical thinking, and writing. Here are a few reasons why:
Intellectual growth
Sense of accomplishment
Personal growth
Connecting with faculty
David Blount, Jr.
Newark, New Jersey
Sport Management
In what ways did Benedict prepare you for your career goals?
They prepared me to make professional resumes for myself so I can get a job or start my career in the field I studied while I was enrolled.
What activities were you involved in at Benedict (include clubs, organizations, internships, etc.)?
- Benedict College Concert Choir
- Benedict College Gospel Choir
- Residential Life – Residential Advisor for Jenkins Hall
- Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity of America, Inc.
- Alpha Rho Theta Fraternity of the Creative and Performing Arts
- Men of Definition
- National Society of Leadership and Success
- BC OUTLOUD – Gay Straight Alliance Organization
- BC Anointed Voices Praise and Worship
- Benedict College Honors Program
- NAACP – 5950 Chapter
What will you miss about Benedict?
What I will miss most about Benedict is their Fried Chicken Wednesdays, Wassup Wednesday, and their Career Fairs.
What is your BEST advice for students who will be enrolling at Benedict in August?
The best advice that I would give them is what my aunt told me a couple of months ago: “Life lessons are not cheap but they’re not easy”.
What are your post-graduation plans?
My post-graduation plan is to apply to grad school in December at USC Columbia to earn a Graduate Study Certificate in vocal performance and to look for any auditions that are available for me around the Columbia area.
What is your BEST memory of Benedict College?
My best memory of Benedict College is performing the National Anthem at Battle of the Bands events for the Carolina Classic and Harambee last semester.
Jeremiah Frazier
Charleston, South Carolina
Music Industry
In what ways did Benedict prepare you for your career goals?
Benedict prepared me for my career in a way I never expected. Benedict has taught me that not everyone has the same path.
What takes some people 4 years, may take others 5, but the goal is to NEVER give up, no matter what the circumstance is.
What activities were you involved in at Benedict (include clubs, organizations, internships, etc.)?
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BCGC (Benedict College Gospel Choir)
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NCNW (National Council of Negro Women)
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MAPS (Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students)
What will you miss about Benedict?
What I will most about Benedict are the family times. Benedict has been my family away from home.
What is your BEST advice for students who will be enrolling at Benedict in August?
Get to know your peers and your professors. When there is an opportunity for you to network, please take that opportunity.
What are your post-graduation plans?
After graduation, I will be attending CSU (Charleston Southern University) to obtain my nursing degree, as I continue my studies to become a travel NICU nurse.
What is your BEST memory of Benedict College?
My best memory of Benedict will definitely be homecoming. One of the greatest events known to mankind, now I may be over-exaggerating but it’s nothing like an hBCu homecoming.
Jada Thomas
Charleston, South Carolina
Biology
In what ways did Benedict prepare you for your career goals?
It has taught me how to manage and use hard and soft skills which will be beneficial in the adult world.
What activities were you involved in at Benedict (include clubs, organizations, internships, etc.)?
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Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.
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Men’s Basketball Team SAAC
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N.A.B.C.J
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Honor society
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Conflict Resolution club
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Pre-Law club
What will you miss about Benedict?
The family and friends that I have built while on campus. Also, the atmosphere and faculty/staff who are caring and loving. I will also miss socializing with peers and professors.
What is your BEST advice for students who will be enrolling at Benedict in August?
Always stay humble and know that success doesn’t come overnight. Success is proof that we have evolved and mastered difficult times. Stay the course and believe in yourself because you can achieve anything you put your mind to.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I plan to go on to graduate school and earn my MBA degree. Also following that I will start my career towards becoming a homicide detective. I’ll then start my family.
What is your BEST memory of Benedict College?
Socializing with peers and loved ones. Also, the basketball games.
Malachi McCoy
The Berry Islands, Bahamas
Criminal Justice Administration
In what ways did Benedict prepare you for your career goals?
Benedict prepared me to be on time and organized. Benedict also prepared me to be a leader and always listen to my team members.
What activities were you involved in at Benedict (include clubs, organizations, internships, etc.)?
I was a member of NABA, Honors Program, Burroughs Scholars, CFA, Collegiate 100, NSLS, and the Beta Gamma Chapter of Delta Mu Delta.
What will you miss about Benedict?
I will miss spending time with friends in the library and attending campus events.
What is your BEST advice for students who will be enrolling at Benedict in August?
Make this the best four years you ever had because you won’t get this time back. Complete all of your work and have fun.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I plan to return to Benedict for the MBA program and return to Deloitte this summer as a tax intern in the Houston, TX, office.
What is your BEST memory of Benedict College?
My best memory of Benedict College is attending homecoming in my junior year. I had a lot of fun and made many memories.
Kasey Cooper
Manning, South Carolina
Accounting
In what ways did Benedict prepare you for your career goals?
Benedict has taught me to be a better person in the community.
What activities were you involved in at Benedict (include clubs, organizations, internships, etc.)?
Track and field and cross country
What will you miss about Benedict?
I will miss the professors, especially my advisor, Dr Milton Morris, and Dr. Larry Lowe.
What is your BEST advice for students who will be enrolling at Benedict in August?
Just be positive.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I plan to enroll in Benedict College’s master’s program.
What is your BEST memory of Benedict College?
My BEST memory of Benedict College is the best professors.
Japheth Kipruto
Eldoret
Environmental Health Science
In what ways did Benedict prepare you for your career goals?
By taking the leap of faith and helping me to be more confident of my work.
What activities were you involved in at Benedict (include clubs, organizations, internships, etc.)?
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Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc.
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NAACP
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Concert Choir
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Benedict Band of Distinction (Color Guard)
What will you miss about Benedict?
My friends (family)
What is your BEST advice for students who will be enrolling at Benedict in August?
If you have creativity to show, SHOW IT!! Don’t never let no one tell you you CAN’T because YOU CAN!!!! “Can’t” is not in my vocabulary at all. If you believe that you can do it, doesn’t matter how small or big it is…DO IT!!!
What are your post-graduation plans?
My plans are to go into law enforcement to become a public relations officer. Right now, I will be starting my career at Forest Acres police department.
What is your BEST memory of Benedict College?
Tiger Fest 2019
Azhane Pontoo
Columbia, South Carolina
Mass Communication
In what ways did Benedict prepare you for your career goals?
Benedict prepared me for the future by pushing me toward my limit and believing in myself.
What activities were you involved in at Benedict (include clubs, organizations, internships, etc.)?
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Represented Benedict College at the NAAHP 2021 Virtual Conference
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Student Ambassador for the S.I.A.C.
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Student Representative of the Athletic Committee
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Volunteered at Conder Elementary School on welcoming students back to school
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Participated in Benedict College 2022 Faculty and Student Research Day, for the School of Education, Health, and Human Services
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Richland County Recreation Commission intern (2022)
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Benedict Track and Field Team
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HPER Club member 2019-2022 Esports Club member
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Benedict College Harambee Festival – 2021
What will you miss about Benedict?
Homecoming week
What is your BEST advice for students who will be enrolling at Benedict in August?
Stay focused, be the best you, be the best of BC.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I am now enrolled in Minnesota State University
Major: Communication Studies
Focus: Mass Communication and Journalism
What is your BEST memory of Benedict College?
- Winning the SIAC championship
- Winning the Elite 90 award and making history, becoming the first person in college history to win this prestigious award.
