BSBA Alumni Spotlight - Julian Malone

Julian Malone?is a graduate of Howard University, where is studied Psychology, and he currently serves as Coordinator for People & Culture at Monumental Sports & Entertainment. Julian was a member of The Black Sport Business Academy's inaugural cohort and had the vision from Day 1 of working in Human Resources. Read Julian's story below to learn about Julian's experience in the Academy and his time at Monumental Sports & Entertainment!

1.?How was your experience going through the Black Sport Business Academy? What does it mean to you that there is a program that exists to invest in your development and ascension into this business?

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience in the Black Sport Business Academy (BSBA). I first learned about the program while being very active on LinkedIn. Soon after applying and being accepted, I learned this program was very business oriented and "the real deal." I wasn't fully aware of the ins and outs of the industry, and this program provided guidance, support, and accountability from day one. We met three times a week, and each day provided a different developmental skill. Monday's were beneficial because they proved how dedicated we were to the program. Wednesdays were more fundamental and we attended workshops to enhance various skills; such as a LinkedIn workshop, resume workshop, and interview workshop. Workshops were timely and necessary for students. Industry Fridays gave us the chance to learn from professionals who currently hold positions that we'd one day like to have. BSBA was beneficial because it tested drive, discipline and provided an opportunity to learn the difference between being a fan of sports versus being a sportsman/woman. I am appreciative that I had the chance to learn from Black industry professionals who give back to their communities. I'd eventually like to be able to give back to a student in the future who is in the same position that I'm in today.

2.?What were your key takeaways from your experience in the Academy that you feel contributed to your personal and professional growth?

The most important takeaway from my experience in BSBA is the power of networking. I learned that it's important to understand it's not about what you know in this industry, but instead it's about who you know. Although someone might not know how to network in the most tactical way, it's important to put yourself out there. Going out of your comfort zone and having the courage to ask someone to hop on the phone will take you a long way. It's vital to build a genuine rapport and remember that networking is a mutual relationship. The little things, such as showing up on time, being considerate, having questions, being prepared and being polite, do matter. Other important takeaways are discipline and consistency. Even if you aren't having the best day or don't want to show up, it's necessary to be the best version of yourself. Being disciplined and showing up even when you don't necessarily want to is important. You should still be consistent and be the best version of yourself even on your bad days will allow you to continue to strive.

3.?Last spring you joined Monumental Sports & Entertainment as an intern in the People & Culture department. Since then, you've been promoted. Why was this opportunity so intriguing to you, and what have been key takeaways from this experience that have contributed to your knowledge and understanding of the industry?

By the time I was a junior in college, I decided I wanted to work in Human Resources. I secured my first internship during my junior year, during Covid-19 at Ohio Electric Cooperative. I was an HR intern on a generalist track. This experience allowed me to explore my interests and showed me that I was highly capable of working in HR. My second internship was my senior year in Washington, D.C. at ADC Management Solutions. I worked as an HR intern, but specialized in talent acquisitions and recruiting. After having those two internships, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in HR. When I had the opportunity to decide on a specific industry, I chose sports and entertainment. After connecting with Monumental Sports and Entertainment, an internship opportunity was offered and accepted. The professional growth opportunities and industry recognition was an opportunity I couldn't decline.

4.?What area of the sports and entertainment industry do you hope to be in long-term? Why?

My long-term goal is to pursue a more in-depth career in human resources. As mentioned, I'm on a generalist track because I want to be well-rounded in all aspects of human resources. I prefer not to have a specialized role because I eventually see myself in a leadership role, where I want to be able to spearhead any HR-related task.

5.?What fascinates you about this industry?

Aside from growing up as a sports and music fanatic, I've learned that this industry makes dreams come true. It's a way for people to step out of reality and enjoy something that they love, whether that be hockey, concerts, basketball, etc. It's a joy to provide a product that makes people of all ages happy. This industry brings together a community and is very fast-paced. I appreciate that each day brings something new.

6.?What do you want to learn more about in the sport and entertainment business?

With being at an entry-level position there are so many aspects of the industry to learn. I've been in this space for nine months which is relatively new and as mentioned, I want to be a sponge. Monumental Sports & Entertainment owns 7 teams and 5 venues and although I am working in Human Resources I am also learning the overall sports business from a team perspective. In the future, I would like to gain experience and understand challenges from a league perspective.

7.?What do you hope is next for you??

Next, I hope to continue to grow and build professionally. I want to be a sponge and continue to take on more responsibilities. I also plan to return to school for an MBA to grow as a business leader. I'd also like to get SMHR certifications for human resources purposes.