A group of impressive St. Lawrence University alumni returned to campus this spring to take part in the annual Marketing the Student-Athlete Experience event – a joint undertaking between Intercollegiate Athletics & Recreation and the Center for Career Excellence.
For over 10 years, this program has provided opportunities for student-athletes to engage with St. Lawrence alumni while gaining valuable insight on how their student-athlete experience had impacted their career path.
"Marketing the Student-Athlete Experience event at St. Lawrence was a valuable experience in learning about opportunities for student-athletes beyond graduation," said Owen O'Brien '24. "Everyone on the panel shared their athletic journey, and how their experiences at St. Lawrence helped them in their professional field. After speaking to members of the panel, I learned new strategies for incorporating experiences I have had as a St. Lawrence student-athlete into a professional setting."
The event has also served as a networking opportunity, providing chances for alumni to return to campus and engage with current student-athletes.
This year's panelists consisted of an outstanding group of Laurentians which included Alec Dietsch '17 (football/men's lacrosse), Bobby Gates '19 (baseball), Ali Price '19 (alpine skiing), Kate Wilson '23 (women's Lacrosse), Karrell Emard '11 (women's hockey) and a video created by Andy Chan '14 (men's soccer).
"While we value this incredible networking opportunity for our student-athletes, we are constantly reminded of how incredible our alumni network is," said Associate Athletic Director Franco Bari '98 M'10. "Their advice to the student-athletes was extremely beneficial as well as their perspective on how to prepare for life upon graduation as a student-athlete."
The event opened with an opportunity for the student-athletes to engage with the invited alumni guests followed by a question-and-answer segment.
"Student athletes often find themselves in stressful and intense moments, such as a championship game or a busy schedule where various different commitments are being juggled," said Price. "It's not always easy to navigate these busy schedules in college, but student-athletes find away to make it happen. They somehow find calmness in these situations, adjusting their schedules to fit everything in and walking away with a win on the field, a spot on an honor roll list, or with a leadership role in a club."
Additional comments
"It was a very valuable experience. The session left me feeling more confident in using my skillset developed as a student athlete after graduation, when looking for a job. I especially liked that the panel had female representation and discussed issues related specifically to women." – Kristina Bahl '25 (women's hockey)
The panel provided a great opportunity for me to explore how we can utilize our experience as student-athletes. It also served as a valuable moment for me to reassess the natural strengths and skills I've acquired through my experiences as a student athlete, which I occasionally underestimate. Moreover, it was a great to connect with the SLU alumni and learn their stories." – Suyeon Eom '24 (women's hockey)
