Assignment 20--Growing Your Social Capital

1. Given that I want to work in the professional sports industry, Craig Schmitt is the domain expert I have chosen. I met Craig at a club meeting and I learned from there that his occupation at UF is to help students make connections in their respective fields. Since then I've met with him in person to discuss my future. What Craig has done for me is give me invaluable advice to get myself connected in my industry. He expects nothing in return as this is what he does for a living. Having him in my network will only help me network with more people.

2. The market expert I chose was Shelley Lyle, one of the managers for the UF Women's Soccer Team. Craig suggested to me that I email Shelley and so I did. Shelley told me she would try and get me an opportunity with the team. In return I would work to the fullest of my abilities. Having her in my network means I would have been able to get some experience before I get a job in the field.

3. The supplier I emailed was Vanessa Ramos, Operations manager at Miami FC. Mr. Craig Schmitt suggested I shoot her an email. I asked her information on things someone in her positions does on a daily basis at work and she did not expect anything in return. Having her in my network now means I have a professional in the pro soccer scene.

This experience will help me to be more confident in my approach regarding future networking events. Prior to these experiences I've written about I had never really networked with people for the intention of my furthering my career, so that's something different from my past experiences.