<p><span class="p-body">While studying in the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/bs-in-sport-management.html" target="_blank">BS in Sport Management</a> program at NYU SPS, students find themselves at the intersection of global sport, technology, business, and more. With opportunities to learn, intern, and network in NYC, the sports capital of the world, there's no better place to be at the center of it all. Luke Cheung is a current student in the program who recently spoke with us about his experience at NYU so far, and where he hopes to take his passion for sports next.</span></p>
The Swoosh That Started It All
<p><span class="p-body">Luke's love of sports began long before he found himself studying at NYU SPS. Being an athlete, one defining memory that stands out from the rest is "hitting a buzzer-beater three in my first-ever high school basketball game," he recalls. "I just remember blacking out and seeing my mother smile—it's a feeling that I can never replicate, but one that meant the world to me." At that moment, Luke couldn't have imagined how that moment would influence his choice to study sport management.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Born in Hong Kong, his global upbringing has shaped not only his perspective on life but also his passion for athletics and the diverse cultures he's experienced along the way. Growing up in countries such as Nigeria, China, and the United States, Luke's unique perspective has become his superpower in the sports world. "As an athlete all my life, I love playing sports whenever I get the chance—primarily baseball, basketball, and track," Luke explains.</span></p>
An NYU Legacy
<p><span class="p-body">Luke's connection to NYU runs deep. His father, an NYU alumnus, played a key role in influencing his decision to join the university. "Seeing what he was able to accomplish for our family after attending NYU was a motivating factor for me when deciding where to commit for school," he shares. However, it wasn't just familial ties that drew Luke in—it was the university's unique positioning at the intersection of both the finance and sports industries.</span></p>
Being situated at the epicenter of both the finance and sports industry was the tipping point for me. As I have a deep interdisciplinary passion for both fields and am interested in finding the intersection of these two industries professionally, there was no better place for me to chase my dreams."
<p><span class="p-body">Now a student in NYU's BS in Sport Management program, Luke has found that the university provides not just academic rigor but also opportunities for personal growth and professional development. "My experience as an NYU student, particularly as an SPS student, has been nothing short of some of the greatest years of my life," he reflects. "I've had the chance to make personal connections with not only my peers but also my professors and mentors." These relationships have been instrumental in shaping Luke's time at NYU, fueling his curiosity and pushing him to think critically about his future in the sports industry.</span></p>
Stepping Into the Center
<p><span class="p-body">One of the defining aspects of NYU SPS is the opportunity for <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/homepage/academics/real-world.html">hands-on learning</a>, something Luke has taken full advantage of. "I have taken Real World (Hugo Boss), Sports Business Practicum as well as two Advanced Seminar courses (NFL & Venezia FC)," he explains. Each of these courses offered unique challenges, providing Luke with the opportunity to work with real-world clients and develop his problem-solving skills. "It's hard to put into words what I was able to learn because the experiences were so transformative," he says. "But my biggest takeaway has to be how each class taught me to be versatile and adaptable for any scenario that was presented to me."</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Throughout his academic path, Luke has embraced the many opportunities NYU offers for professional growth, including multiple internships and networking events. These experiences have not only enhanced his skill set but also prepared him to thrive in any scenario, a trait that sets him apart as he prepares to enter the competitive world of sports management. </span></p>
Leading a New Generation
<p><span class="p-body">Looking ahead, Luke's aspirations are clear. "I've known since I was as young as the age of eight that I wanted to go to graduate school to get my MBA in a finance-related field," he shares. However, he plans to gain work experience first before continuing his education. "Once I'm able to secure a stable career, I hope that my profession will take me all around the world to grow my perspective and my experiences as a global citizen." Luke's multinational upbringing inspired his deep appreciation for different cultures, and he hopes to leverage this worldview in his future career, ideally in a role that combines both his interests in finance and sports.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Luke credits NYU SPS with giving him the tools to stay ahead in the ever-changing sports industry. "As we are taught in class, the sporting landscape is constantly changing and always in perpetual flux," he explains. "I think our time at SPS makes us poised to become the next generation of revolutionaries and visionary leaders in our field." With his drive, determination, and passion for sports, Luke is well on his way to achieving his goals, both academically and professionally.</span></p>
Advice Comes Full Circle
<p><span class="p-body">When it comes to seeking advice and inspiration, Luke turns to those closest to him—his family. "Whether it is my younger brother who also goes to SPS or my parents who live halfway across the world, I always know that they have my best interest at heart," he says. This support system has been vital throughout his journey, providing him with the encouragement and motivation he needs to succeed.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Luke's advice to incoming NYU SPS students reflects his own experiences navigating the university's dynamic environment. "Don't feel the need to reinvent yourself in New York," he says. "Be the best version of yourself to define your experience within the city and strive to become a little bit better each and every day."</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">As Luke prepares for the next chapter of his career, his love for sports and his drive to succeed remain central to his story. With the strong foundation he's built at NYU, there's no doubt that he will continue to make an impact in the world of sports management, both in the US and abroad.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Take your place in shaping the future of global sport when you pursue a <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/bs-in-sport-management.html" target="_blank">BS in Sport Management</a> at NYU SPS.</span></p>
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