Terry Hawthorne
Terry Hawthorne is a senior focusing on sport management.
What are your general impressions of your studies and RST as a whole?
The RST degree program provides a solid foundation for becoming a manager, facilitator, or leader in all areas of recreation, sport, and tourism. I am learning about marketing, sport ethics, and programming that can be applied and used in all aspects of my life, not just in my career. The material is very practical and can be applied in daily activities.
What has been your most interesting experience at the University of Illinois?
My most interesting experience would have to be Illinois football. I enjoy the opportunity to play the sport I love at the Big 10 level of competition. We have travelled to several universities over my four years and met so many people and fans. It is truly an honor to represent Illinois on the field and at events.
What are your post-graduation plans?
After graduation, my first plan is to receive a bid and play in the NFL. Plan B would be joining the Airforce. I like the level of structure the military provides. Plan C would be to coach. I would like to help prepare other athletes for the stage and level of competition I have been fortunate to play on.
What extracurricular activities/student organizations are you involved with?
As a student athlete, your time after your sport and academics is limited. I haven’t been as involved across campus in organizations as I would have liked, but I do go out and support the different events held on campus and, of course, attend other sporting events to support my other fellow student athletes.
What do you like to do for fun?
For fun and to relax, I may play video games with the team and cook. I really like to cook. If we are out of season and I have some free time, I like to travel and do some outside sports like bungee jumping or jet skiing.
Why would you recommend RST and the College of Applied Health Sciences to others?
RST allows you to stretch your mind past the immediate thoughts that you have in regards to recreation, sport and tourism. You learn about the background of how events and programs are developed. You find out that you can do the same big events that you have attended before, now that you have proper training. You get a feeling of accomplishment after you have planned, marketed, implemented, and executed a program from start to finish. RST can help you achieve that. The College of Applied Health Sciences is a small college that allows for students to really connect with one another and form a family not only on the peer level, but also with faculty and staff. You learn about your weaknesses, and throughout your four years with the support of the staff, faculty, and your peers, they become strengths. RST and AHS are personal, like a close-knit family. Truly feels like a home away from home.