University of Minnesota Athletics
Student-Athletes Gather at Third Annual Sophomore Summit
1/22/2024 4:35:00 PM | Athletics, Student-Athlete Development, Leadership U
Golden Gopher sophomore student-athletes across twelve sports gathered for a day of programming at Land O'Lakes Center for Excellence on Sunday, January 14th. At the Sophomore Summit, the L.I.N.K. staff organized activities focused on networking, leadership development, and career exploration. The day was filled with opportunities for learning, personal growth, and establishing numerous connections.
When asked about the value the Sophomore Summit provides student-athletes, Senior Associate Athletics Director of Leadership and Inclusion, Peyton Owens III states, "The Sophomore Summit builds upon the foundation of the Freshmen First Year Experience Course and Pro Day - seeking to advance career exploration, the knowledge and usage of career exploration tools, alumni engagement, networking, emotional intelligence and leadership development. The Sophomore Summit is absolutely the victory we promised our young scholars, but more importantly, the victory they promised themselves in choosing the University of Minnesota. This day remains a shining example of the scores of transformational experiences Golden Gopher Athletics at the University of Minnesota offers, advocating for the development of the total person."
The day commenced with an engaging twist on the "Game of Life", providing student-athletes with an opportunity to role-play various decisions they might encounter in the future. This interactive experience offered them insights into the diverse outcomes that could impact their athletic, academic, and professional pursuits. It allowed them to navigate the uncertainties they face as student-athletes.
Following that, student-athletes engaged in a team-building exercise facilitated by Leadership U. This activity presented them with a challenge, requiring collaborative efforts to find the optimal solution. The exercise served to enhance communication and teamwork among individuals who might not typically interact frequently.
Following the Leadership U activity, our student-athletes had the privilege of gaining insights from former Gopher student-athletes, including Randon Dauman, Emily Heslin, Katie Kemmetmueller, Bakary Konaté. The panel engaged in a discussion about their journeys from student-athlete to business professionals, highlighting the significance of transferable skills and showcasing the importance of leadership throughout their careers.
After the Gopher alumni panel, student-athletes enthusiastically participated in a dynamic speed networking event. This activity was made successful through the collaboration of over 20 Twin Cities professionals, including the Leadership U Advisory Group, former Leadership Council members, W.I.L.L. Mentors and other industry experts from across the cities. During the lunch hour, student-athletes seized the opportunity to further develop their networking connections.
After another successful Sophomore Summit, Director of Career Services & Relations, Andrea Shada, shared her feelings after the event "I think what I loved most about this event is seeing the energy and overall excitement of not only the student-athletes but the networking guests as well. We would not be able to host these opportunities without their support and to see the level of investment from such a broad range of professional community members is exciting and inspiring. This event enables student-athletes to start exploring avenues that will help empower them to achieve their life goals both now and in the future and without these community members events like this would not be possible."
The Sophomore Summit equipped student-athletes with the necessary tools, support, and resources to confidently navigate the next steps in their careers. It empowered them to strive for leadership excellence, not only during their time in the maroon and gold but also as they move forward beyond this stage of their journey.