This week, I sat down with Atharva Suryavanshi, a Master’s student in Business (Sports Management) at Deakin University, and a good friend of mine. Atharva is deeply immersed in the world of sports, particularly sports broadcasting and media, inspired by icons like John Dykes and even the sports writer character from “Everybody Loves Raymond.”
📍Q: With your strong interest in sports broadcasting and media, particularly admiring John Dykes, can you share how you plan to pursue a career in this field? What steps are you currently taking to achieve this goal?
Atharva: “My passion for sports broadcasting was ignited by the John Dykes show in 2017. To carve my niche in this field, I’ve started writing sports articles on LinkedIn. This not only helps me express my thoughts but also establishes my presence in the sports media space.”
📍Q: As a Market Research Assistant at Traits Insights, what specific projects have you worked on, and how have these experiences influenced your understanding of the sports market?
Atharva: “I’m currently involved in a project analyzing the English football market. I’m examining trends across various club profiles, including job transitions and experiences. This role has broadened my understanding of the diverse opportunities in sports, highlighting the vastness and the dynamic behind-the-scenes roles in the industry.”
📍Q: In such a niche field as sports broadcasting and media, networking can be crucial. What strategies have you employed to build and maintain professional relationships within the industry?
Atharva: “Being genuine and finding common ground has been key in building connections. I actively maintain relationships through regular catch-ups and volunteer work. Opportunities like those offered by SportsGrad have been instrumental in expanding my network.”
📍Q: One message for the world?
Atharva: “Kindness is a gift that everyone can afford, so spread it generously.”
✨ Key Takeaways:
Atharva’s journey underscores the importance of actively creating and seizing opportunities, whether through writing, volunteering, or networking. His approach reminds us that stepping into less familiar roles can open doors to the paths we aspire to follow. Embracing every opportunity, even those outside of our comfort zone, can lead to unexpected and rewarding careers.
