<p><span class="p-body">Most <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/bs-in-sport-management.html" target="_blank">BS in Sport Management</a> students agree there's no better place to study than NYC, the epicenter of global sports. Beyond learning from leading practitioners in the field, they have the opportunity to intern at some of the world's leading organizations, taking their education beyond the classroom. Alekhya Mangharam is a current student we were eager to speak to about her experience in the program so far.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Alekhya grew up in the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, Thailand, where basketball quickly became a significant part of her life. With her father's encouragement, she and her siblings developed a love for the game despite the limited opportunities for athletes in her hometown. Driven to create a platform for others like herself, Alekhya founded Bangkok Buckets when she was 15.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">A social media platform designed to showcase local basketball talent in Thailand, this early initiative was her way of offering players more exposure and the chance to catch the attention of collegiate coaches.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Alekhya's favorite sports memory, winning her high school basketball conference championship, perfectly illustrates her spirit: passionate, team-oriented, and dedicated to making every moment count.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Her passion for basketball extended beyond just playing the sport, however. She was also drawn to videography, photography, content creation, nutrition, fitness, and kinesiology. With this multifaceted interest in sports and wellness, Alekhya knew she wanted to make an impact in the field, and she was already well on her way to doing so even before she came to NYU SPS.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">When it came time to decide on a college, Alekhya found herself drawn to NYU. &quot;If I had to describe NYU in one word, I would use 'opportunity,'&quot; she shares. The chance to study at a university in the sports capital of the world and learn from an extensive network of industry professionals was simply too good to pass up. NYU's unique Sport Management program offered her direct access to the world of sports, not just through classroom learning but also through panels, seminars, and excursions.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Alekhya's experience as a student has been a whirlwind of learning and personal growth. NYU SPS allowed her to dive into real-world situations and build connections with professionals in the industry. From her freshman seminar to her current junior year, the professors at SPS have served as a foundation for her success. &quot;All the professors I have had at SPS have a genuine interest in putting the students' careers first,&quot; Alekhya explains.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">One of Alekhya's most valuable experiences at NYU has been the practicum class, a required course that places students in internships for a month during the semester. This class not only prepares students for the 300 hours of work experience required for graduation but also gives them firsthand experience working in the sports industry.&nbsp;&nbsp; <span class="p-body"></span><br> </span></p> <p><span class="p-body">&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Currently, Alekhya is interning at SLAM magazine, an opportunity she describes as &quot;incredible.&quot; These hands-on experiences, plus the real-world classes and seminars, have given her a clear picture of what a career in sports entails. This industry exposure has been instrumental in shaping Alekhya's confidence and preparedness. &quot;The classes I've taken within my program have been primarily focused on large-scale projects and collaboration,&quot; she notes.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">While her passion for sports remains strong, Alekhya's plans for the future are broad and ambitious. After graduation, she hopes to pursue a postgraduate degree in physical therapy while staying connected to sport management. This shift came from her desire to make a positive impact in the sports industry.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">For Alekhya, the inspiration to take her place in the center of the sports industry comes from those around her. She looks to her parents and older siblings for advice and guidance, acknowledging them as the backbone of her support system. In the professional world, Alekhya is inspired by the women in the sports industry who have paved the way for others like her. These trailblazing individuals serve as a constant reminder to push boundaries and make her own mark.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Reflecting on her journey at NYU, Alekhya offers some advice to incoming SPS students: &quot;Take full advantage of every opportunity that comes your way.&quot; She encourages students to build strong connections with professors and industry professionals, as a simple email can sometimes open unexpected doors. Above all, she advises students to embrace every moment of their time at NYU, exploring, learning, and striving to make a positive impact on those around them.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">See where the world of sports can take you 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>&nbsp;at NYU SPS.</span></p>