Student Spotlight John Mizerak

WVU simply checked off every box for me. It had a great sport management program and I had spoken with various alumni who told me about their great experiences with the program and school. The other thing that was particularly important to me was the ability for me to gain professional experience, and WVU offers so many opportunities for that. At the end of the day, the choice was easy.

Around my junior year of high school, I realized that the one constant thing in my life was sports. And I knew that even though I loved playing, I was not going to be able to go to the next level. After talking with Michael Pehanich, an alum of the sport management program, I realized I did not have to leave sports and could make a professional career out of it. Ever since then it has been a goal of mine to stick around an industry I love.

The connectivity between real life experiences and those who are already in those positions is what makes this program stand out. WVU does a great job at handing opportunities to those who seek them in this field. The fact that I have been able to work with various departments and meet with professionals across the country make this program so special to a budding professional.

During my sophomore year, I joined the WVU Athletics Marketing staff as an intern. Over the past three years, I worked my way up to a part-time student assistant. I had the opportunity to throw T-shirts, assist with the production of women’s soccer and gymnastics, and everything in between. Seeing all the behind-the-scenes aspects of sports marketing made it clear that this is the path I want to pursue after earning my undergraduate degree.

My biggest advice is to get out there and try new things. This university has so many opportunities for people looking to get into the sports industry, but it's up to you to seize them. Students should try an internship or talk to a professional because the worst thing that can happen is that you realize you may like another aspect of the sports industry better.

The WVU vs. Penn State football game from this past season stands out the most. Not just the game itself, but all the preparation leading up to it. I was in the marketing office every day that week putting in countless hours. Between Friday’s events with Pat McAfee and Big Noon Kickoff and Saturday’s game, I worked in some capacity for 25 of the 48 hours. It was physically and mentally draining—especially with the rain delay—but incredibly rewarding to be part of such a big production.

Adapting to an unfamiliar environment was a challenge I faced. I grew up in a same small town before moving to Morgantown. I was a little bit shy and had some anxiety over the change. Over time, I grew out of my shell, met new friends, and tried new things. The experience of trying new things in new places has been a source of great personal growth for me. Despite the struggle it initially was, I wouldn’t change anything about it.

It means everything to me and my family. I am a very goal-oriented person, and this has been a goal of mine for as long as I can remember. The countless hours of class, studying, and work have finally paid off.

I will be attending Western Kentucky University to get my MBA and serve as their marketing graduate assistant. I will oversee all marketing efforts for their women’s soccer and softball teams.

Without a doubt, the best thing about being a Mountaineer is the community. I’ve met thousands of people while in Morgantown, as well as others back home in Pennsylvania, on vacation, and in so many other places who are part of the Mountaineer family. It truly reaches everywhere and is something I would not trade for anything.