Syracuse Sun

Falk College students recently embarked on a career exploration trip to Washington, D.C., which proved to be an enriching and insightful experience for all participants. The trip, organized by the Office of Career Services, aimed to provide students with a deeper understanding of various health and sport-related professions through site visits, panels, and networking opportunities.

During the trip, students had the chance to interact with professionals from a wide range of organizations, gaining valuable insights into athlete representation, sports marketing, and player wellness programs. David Sly, associate director of career services, highlighted the significance of the trip in broadening students' professional interests and showcasing the overlap between health and sport professions.

One of the participants, Brinda Parikh ’26, expressed her gratitude for the exposure to potential career paths in the public health field, stating, “Being able to hear firsthand from industry professionals about their experiences throughout their careers was very eye-opening.”

The students had the opportunity to visit prominent institutions such as the Food and Drug Administration, United States Department of Agriculture, and the NFL Players’ Association, among others. The trip also included engaging sessions with alumni and employer representatives, providing students with networking opportunities and industry knowledge.

Reflecting on their Syracuse University experience and career goals, students shared their reasons for choosing Falk College and their aspirations for the future. From a passion for sports to a desire to make a difference in public health, each student articulated their unique journey and goals.

The trip left a lasting impact on the participants, with many highlighting the exposure to diverse career opportunities and the connections made during the visit. Liam Roberts, a sport analytics major, emphasized the importance of the trip in exploring opportunities within the sports industry that would have otherwise been inaccessible.

As the students returned from their immersive experience in D.C., they shared their most memorable takeaways from the trip. Nicole Corrente, a graduate student of social work, described the trip as an "amazing experience" that provided her with invaluable insights into various organizations and the importance of a strong work ethic.

Overall, the Falk in D.C. Career Exploration Trip proved to be a transformative experience for the 27 Falk College students, offering them a glimpse into potential career paths and fostering valuable connections within the industry. The trip not only expanded their professional horizons but also deepened their understanding of the intersection between health and sport professions.