Eight Oglethorpe University students traded their classroom for the press box in a unique professional development experience at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of Atlanta’s own major league soccer team: Atlanta United Football Club. With media passes in hand, the students had the rare opportunity to step behind the scenes during a home game, immersing themselves in the fast-paced world of sports media.
Led by Dr. Kate Keib, associate professor of communication studies, the students explored every angle of game-day coverage. From social media storytelling and sideline photography to player interviews and executive insights, the experience offered a real-world look at the range of communications work that powers a major league franchise.
Throughout the day, students pursued individual projects tailored to their interests. Ronni Cassell ’25 interviewed veteran sports journalist Doug Roberson of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution about his career covering Atlanta United and Major League Soccer. Sarah Gilley ’26 spoke with Mike Ridley, vice president of integrated marketing, and Chris Raimondi, manager of brand business communications, gaining insight into Atlanta United’s marketing strategy and brand storytelling.
Kate Wilson ’27 and Kike Hernandez ’25 both focused on Atlanta United’s impact off the field, interviewing Alec Quiesser, manager of community relations, about the team’s inclusive initiatives, including Atlanta United Unified—a team that provides opportunities for athletes with disabilities.
Meanwhile, Nyle Farooqui ’25 produced a detailed game recap and interviewed midfielder Jay Fortune at the post-game press conference, while Justin Edwards ’25 captured the full experience on video. Ayah Mateen ’28 documented the day with a social media video, offering a “day-in-my-life” perspective that showcased the team’s journey from arrival to wrap-up. Fynn Grindle ’25 spoke with Johannes Schneider, Atlanta United’s communications coordinator, and compiled an article reflecting on the entire experience and what it meant to the student team.
“I love soccer and writing. The experience of being at the press box to cover the Atlanta United match further demonstrated my passion for pursuing a career in a soccer communications role,” said Farooqui.
Being located in Atlanta played a key role in making this experience possible. Just a quick MARTA ride from Oglethorpe’s campus, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, in addition to being a cultural landmark, is a resource for hands-on learning. Opportunities like this demonstrate how Oglethorpe’s location in a global city gives students access to top-tier professionals, organizations and experiences.
The students’ work was later featured in Oglethorpe’s Liberal Arts & Sciences Symposium, highlighting how the liberal arts can intersect with career exploration and practical skill-building.
For these students, the day at Atlanta United was a glimpse into their future careers and a powerful affirmation that their classroom knowledge has a real-world impact.
