I graduated with a degree in Speech & Hearing and Psychology from Indiana University. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do so I moved to Chicago to figure it out. Chicago was a good place for me to network and learn about what types of jobs were out there. My cousin helped me get my first job at a healthcare information company, and I worked at Nordstrom on the weekends.   

During that first year, I learned that I enjoyed customer service. Most importantly, I realized if I was going to be spending that much time at a desk, I had to be excited and passionate about the work. Sports and kids had always been my passion so I knew I had to figure out a way to incorporate one or both of those things into my work life.

During grad school, I met with as many people in the sports industry as possible. Eighteen months into my MBA program, one of them told me that the Timberwolves had an opening in their ticket services department. What helped set me apart from the other candidates was that I didn’t necessarily care about the exact position. I was extremely eager, passionate about learning everything I could about how a sports organization worked, and willing to take a job in any department.   

Looking back, I am so grateful that my first job was in the box office. Ultimately every single person attending an event needs a ticket. Understanding how it all worked from the perspective of season ticket holders, sponsors, the league, etc., was so beneficial to my career. I was also very lucky to have a manager who continually gave me additional responsibilities and encouraged me to meet with other departments and roles within the organization.

Almost two years after starting, there was an opening in the sponsorship department for an Account Manager. It was the perfect transition for me from the service side of tickets to the service side of sponsorships, and I spent the next three and a half years managing a group of amazing Timberwolves & Lynx partners.

U.S. Bank was of my clients at the Timberwolves. I had never thought about working for a bank before, but the opportunity to work on the client side of sponsorships was very intriguing. Because they knew me and had worked with me for a few years, they were willing to give me an opportunity that my resume may not have given me.   

Working for the bank, I was exposed to other teams, leagues, and events around Minneapolis and Seattle. I saw things in a totally new and different way working for the bank on the client side. Having that client experience was a big piece of why I was able to get my next job with the LA Galaxy and now, the Portland Timbers. I value that perspective and being able to share that with those who I have worked with in the past and now.

From the first bobble head giveaway at the Timberwolves, to helping manage the changeover of our stadium to a new naming rights partner, I love the challenge of figuring out the details to make things happen.   

Looking back, I would not change a thing. Jobs are like dating. With every date you go on, you figure out more about what you like and what you don’t. Same with jobs. I am fortunate to work in an industry I love. Every step I’ve taken has given me the tools to move on to the next. 

When I was working in Chicago, I decided that I wanted to get into sports, but I didn’t have the internships or degrees that others pursuing those jobs had. I needed to do something that would set me apart. At the time, there weren’t as many people with MBAs looking for my level of jobs, so that was the best option for me.

I loved sports growing up, whether I was playing on a team, going to Gopher games with my grandpa, or playing catch football with my brother and dad in the backyard. What I love most about sports, or really any event, is the experience that you and your family, friends, and teammates have together. I wanted to find a job where I could bring those experiences and memories to others.

Every day is different so there really isn’t a “normal” schedule—which I love! Ultimately, I am here to make sure our partners are happy and seeing a return on their investment. From meetings with partners, brainstorming sessions with my team, or planning events, the list goes on and on. With three teams, Portland Timbers – MLS, Portland Thorns FC – NWSL & Timbers 2 – USL, we are always preparing for that next match, making sure our partners have everything they need.

You have to have a passion for this business. The hours are long, but if you are excited about what you do, time passes quickly.

Network as much as possible, even when you aren’t looking for a job. Almost every job I have had throughout my career was from someone introducing me to someone they knew. You never know when an opportunity may arise and having someone else in your corner helps. Then, once you get an interview, it’s all up to you.  

Finally, make the best of every opportunity given. If you are interning for one department, make connections with other departments. I have hired a few people that interned in other departments—a wide variety of skills is always appreciated.

I have always looked at everything in life as my next decision, not my last—it's allowed me to take chances that I may not have taken otherwise. A new job or a new city doesn’t seem as daunting that way.   

Starting a new job or moving to a new city is exciting, but I also have to remind myself to be patient. One of the hardest things for me in starting a new job has always been the need to know everything right away. I have learned through the years that the best thing I can do is to sit back a little and get to know the people and the processes in place first before trying to change anything.

With so many nights and weekends taken with matches and events, making time to work out and relax is extremely important. During the week, I wake up at 5:00 a.m. so I have time to meditate, work out, and make breakfast. I love mornings—taking advantage of those early hours is the best way for me to tackle the rest of my day.  

On the weekends, I try to get outside as much as possible. I have been in Portland for two years now and still have so much to explore. Recently when I've had days off, I’ve been taking day trips to the coast and Central Oregon.

When I walk into Providence Park in the morning and look at the field, I feel so lucky that I get to be a part of the growth of this organization and of soccer in the U.S. I want to continue to find ways to contribute to its success however I am able to.