where are they GOING?
Danielle Pulliam Global Sport Leadership, Ed.D. School of Graduate Studies Advisor Name: Dr. Brian Johnston ETSU, 2020
What degree are you currently working on? In May 2020, I will graduate with an Ed.D. in Global Sport Leadership.
How has your degree helped you so far? In short, the GSLD program has provided me opportunities to travel abroad, learn from industry experts, and has given me the platform to combine my love for sports with higher education. The GSLD program has introduced me to faculty and other students who have challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and with whom I have built genuine relationships. Most notably, pursuing this degree helped me to define my leadership philosophy and clearly identify specific areas of interest. In particular, I am most passionate about creating a holistic student-athlete experience, implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives, and mentoring young professionals on career development strategies.
What professors/advisors were instrumental in helping you get to this point? So many people have played a vital role in my pursuit of this terminal degree. I am grateful for Dr. Brian Johnston, Program Coordinator and Associate Professor,
for his tireless work to create, enhance, and promote this program. From start to finish, Dr. Johnston has made developing his students his main priority. In addition, each person on my Board of Directors list (Marsha Frese, Liz Tovar, Cornell Sneed, and Bob Baker) have in some way influenced or affirmed the decisions I have made while pursuing this degree.
What career opportunities will you be seeking? Currently, my focus has been on diversifying my portfolio with various professional and personal experiences in order to allow me to better serve my organization and career field. I hope to expand upon my current research to help sport organizations mitigate bias during the hiring process and increase the overall number of women and minorities in leadership positions. Ultimately, each day I aim to make a lasting impact on the people around me and create spaces that everyone can thrive and exist in. I plan to use both the degree and what I learned in the program to help create opportunities for others. This is inclusive of the studentathletes I work with daily, and women and minorities who aspire to earn a postgraduate degree or pursue a career in sports. Earning this degree has never solely been about my own personal desire for attainment, but rather about putting myself in the best possible position to mentor and advance others.
What advice would you give to current or future graduate students? Pursuing a doctoral degree is less about intellect and more about hustle. I would tell current graduate students to develop their work ethic, master the skill of time management, and become proficient in making intentional decisions. Be patient and do your research to find a program that fits the season of life that you are in. Personally, I have had the ability to balance a full-time job while obtaining a doctorate. I was honest with myself and others about my priorities and desire to achieve success in this program. Most importantly, I learned there will come a time in your life where the right relationships will become critical for your survival, productivity, and advancement. Surround yourself with a support system that listens, provides honest feedback, and unrelenting encouragement.
Is there anything else you would like to share? The unsung heroes in my story are my family, friends, and network. Each of these individuals consistently challenged me to always present my best and most authentic self. None of this would be possible without them. I consider my success their success.
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