Syracuse University dual major with Newhouse and Sport Management. Capstone and first job at ESPN. Dream scenario, right? Not so much. Life in the real world was definitely an adjustment, as my career was at a crossroads only one year into my tenure at ESPN. I got in some trouble and was suspended from work for a week.
After receiving my suspension, the first person I called was Laurie Orlando, who at the time was senior vice president of ESPN’s Talent Office. She pioneered my senior Capstone and has been a great mentor ever since. When I need life advice or guidance, I know I can count on her. I told her everything that had happened. She knew I was in trouble, but at no point did she judge me.
A few months later, SPM professor Michael Veley reached out to me to set up lunch because he was visiting ESPN’s campus. I was hesitant. He was the reason I was at ESPN. I didn’t want to let him down. When I was deciding whether to declare a dual major with Sport Management, the belief professor Veley had in me gave me the confidence to pursue it and my dreams of working at ESPN. How could I tell him I was suspended from work and almost got fired? At the lunch, I told him everything. He said, Aneesh, I still believe in you.” At that point, I knew I had to make things right and fight to keep my place at ESPN.
Three years after my suspension, I was promoted to production coordinator, managing the logistical aspect of production for Major League Soccer, U.S. Soccer, and UEFA Tournaments. The promotion was special because I feel like I learned from my mistakes, moved past them, and become a better professional. I have tried to fix the things I can control. What keeps me going is the belief and confidence my mentors like Laurie Orlando and professor Veley have in me.
