BALTIMORE – Last week, Coppin State sophomore Alexis Marsh attended the NCAA’s Career in Sports Forum in Indianapolis. The Coppin State women’s track and field athlete and All-Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) runner shared her experiences by writing a first-hand account of her memorable experience.

During the action-packed four-day conference, 215 attendees heard from several high powered speakers, toured the NCAA’s Hall of Champions, enjoyed a networking lunch with NCAA staffers, learned about the big picture of intercollegiate athletics, attended a job specifically aimed at the student-athletes on the campus of IUPUI, spent time within their eight assigned color groups and listened to various social media strategies.

The following are Marsh’s words.

“The Career in Sports Forum was overwhelming at first but it was extremely informative and beneficial. It opened my eyes and made me realize how much I do love sports. The NCAA does a lot of work and has a number of opportunities that most student-athletes have no idea about.

Some highlights of the forums were having the opportunity to hear NCAA president Dr. Mark Emmert speak. He revealed about some important statistics within the NCAA and explained how the non-profit organization works. Listening to his speech made me realize how much of a blessing it is to be a student-athlete and to be a part of the NCAA. Another highlight moment was participating in the Next Steps Fair, it was an opportunity to speak with professionals in a job field that you may be aspiring to be in after graduating. It was a great way to network and learn about the jobs that interest you as well as the steps needed to get there.

During the forum, we were given the results from our DiSC assessment. This assessment basically tells you the type of person you are, areas you need to work on, people you work best with, and it also shows how we can work with people who aren't like myself. This assessment was my personality on paper. I was surprised to see how accurate my test results were. I didn't learn anything about myself that I didn't already know, but the forum reassured me and taught me how to work on some of my weaknesses and change them into strengths.

The color team sessions is what made the forum enjoyable. I was in team orange. I got to meet an extraordinary group of people and work with them. I learned great information from these student-athletes, though most were involved in a different sport than myself. I made great connections with these athletes that I never expected to.

I also had great team leaders that were relatable and learned important lessons from them as well. One message that I took away from the weekend was to not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. That message speaks loud to me because being an athlete you take risks on a daily basis but don't even realize it. Stepping out of your comfort zone, not just athletically, but career wise is important and it's the only way you can get to where you want to be. Also your actions combined with your words makes you who you are and it is your foundation for growth.

I would advise all student athletes to apply and attend this forum, even if you don't want to pursue a career in athletics. This forum is an eye opener that teaches you about important life skills and most importantly teaches you about yourself and self-awareness.”