March Alumni Career Profile

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Name:  Geoffrey J. Hassard Class Year: 1989 Major: Physical Education Current Employer:  State University College of New York at Oneonta

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Describe your career path since graduation.

 

I attended Springfield College and earned my Master's Degree with a concentration in Athletic Administration. Worked part-time as a teacher and coach (mostly coaching) and then found a career that could keep me in the athletics field when I found sports information (athletics communications).

 

What is your current position and how long have you been with your employer? 

I am currently the Assistant Director of Athletics for Media Relations at Oneonta State. I am currently in my eighth year.

 

Describe the main responsibilities of your position. 

I am the public relations person for the athletics department here at the college. My duties include home event coverage, statistics and record keeping along with web site maintenance. I wear a lot of hats and supervise an Associate, many interns and work study students.  

 

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

The fact that I get to watch athletes compete on a daily basis. The bigger enjoyment for me is getting to report their accomplishments and see them rewarded for their efforts.

 

What do you find most challenging about your job? 

The ever-changing technology associated with my profession. It doesn't take long to fall behind, so you need to be aware and be proactive.

 

Describe your typical work week.  (How many hours you work, your work environment, etc.) 

My work week has changed quite a bit after being promoted. I still have the daily duties in the sports information office, but added to the administrative responsibilities I now have, my weeks can take me in all directions. It is frequently seven days a week that may total anywhere from 55-65 hours a week.  

 

What job search methods did you use to obtain your current position?  

I started as a volunteer at MIT in their sports information office and then moved to being the sports information intern at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). After five years I began to send out my resume and that's when I got the bite from Oneonta. I definitely persevered through the job search process for many years trying to find a full time job.  

 

What advice could you give to students interested in your field? 

Get involved in as many activities that are sports/athletics related while you're an undergraduate. Being exposed to different sports and activities that happen within an athletics department will give you a well-rounded experience. Don't be afraid to ask questions or give input. Don't be afraid to work!

Last Modified: April 5, 2007