Students interested in a career in the sports realm were given an opportunity to learn about possible careers this last week, as Augustana's chapter of Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) hosted a Sports Fair on Thursday, April 22, at the Elmen Center.
About 40 students showed up to visit with local individuals whose careers are dedicated to sports.
The University of Sioux Falls (USF), South Dakota State University (SDSU), the University of South Dakota (USD) and Augustana all sent representatives to instruct students about internships and careers on the college level.
Semi-pro teams the Sioux Falls Storm, Stampede, Skyforce and Pheasants also sent employees to visit with students.
''We decided to try hosting the event this year,'' PRSSA member and junior Stephanie Goos said. ''PRSSA wanted to market to the sports-oriented students, and because we [Goos, junior Kelli Goodrich, junior Jill Goodrich and sophomore Stacy Dally] were interested in that field, we took the initiative to invite teams and colleges.''
The students invited teams to send their own representatives, but organized it in a way that each team or school would have a different area of interest.
KELOLAND television was also represented, as Jay Elsen attended to tell students about the journalism and broadcasting side of sports.
''We wanted to market to more than just one or two careers,'' Goos said. ''We wanted to focus on different areas that students could get involved in. We wanted marketing, broadcasting, game-day and fundraising.''
For students, the general feeling was that the event was worthwhile, and many contacts were made.
''I thought it was pretty good,'' senior Dillon Karras said. ''It was unfortunate that we had only 40 kids for eight to ten businesses, but the [speakers were] really good, and the reception was great as well.
''I got a good contact at USD who I'm talking with right now,'' he said. ''I was very glad I went. It'll hopefully come in handy to make those connections as much as possible.''
Another student who attended was sophomore Beth Frost.
''I really enjoyed it,'' Frost said. ''The speakers were really informative and gave me a lot of information that will be helpful in the future.''
Those in charge of the event hope to host it next year, with more speakers and more teams represented.
''I think we learned a lot this year,'' Goos said. ''We had some stuff that we liked, and a few things we want to change to get a bigger crowd. Hopefully next year we can expand and have more students involved.''
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