<p><span class="p-body">Designed for busy professionals, the&nbsp;<a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-global-sport.html" title="MS in Global Sport">MS in Global Sport</a>&nbsp;program at NYU SPS is a low-residency option that allows students to dive straight into the sports industry. Moona Ahmed is a student in the program whose path to the industry has all kinds of twists and turns. We were grateful to catch up with Ahmed recently to learn more about how she came to the program, what she's learned so far, and where she plans to go next.</span></p>

<p>Ahmed's transition from the engineering labs of NYU to pursuing a career in the global sports industry reflects a lifetime of curiosity, adaptability, and passion. Born and raised on the Upper West Side of New York City, Ahmed's early years were filled with an appreciation for the hustle and excitement of her hometown. After completing her undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering at NYU, she began her professional career in a field far from the world of sports: engineering nuclear submarines.</p> <p>Reflecting on her undergraduate years, Ahmed remembers a significant project she proposed for her senior design, which was creating a soccer cleat powered by piezoelectric crystals. The idea stemmed from her commitment to sustainability and her love for soccer, but it was ultimately shelved due to funding limitations. Nevertheless, that moment stayed with her, hinting at the path she would eventually follow.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>After graduation, Ahmed moved to Connecticut for her job in engineering, leaving behind the familiarity of New York City. While the transition was difficult at first, Ahmed embraced the opportunity for personal growth. She quickly adapted to suburban life, learning to drive for the first time, taking up snowboarding, and even joining a recreational soccer league. Although she excelled professionally and found new hobbies, the suburban life was a far cry from the fast-paced city she missed.</p> <p>By 2020, Ahmed returned to New York City to start a new role in construction management. But her career transition coincided with the onset of the pandemic, and the world of remote work began. During that time, Ahmed's adaptability shone again as she started a cake-baking business that quickly gained traction. Yet, her quest for constant growth led her to close the business after a year and a half, once again asking herself, &quot;What's next?&quot;</p> <p>It was during the 2022 World Cup that Ahmed experienced a pivotal moment. Watching the matches sparked a realization—her passion for soccer and sports had always been there, waiting for the right moment. It was a long-overdue wake-up call, and she finally decided to pursue a career in sports. This time, Ahmed knew NYU was the place to help her make that dream a reality.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span class="p-body">Ahmed enrolled in NYU's Global Sport program, drawn not only by her alma mater's academic prestige but also by the diversity and opportunities it offered. &quot;Through the Global Sports master's degree, I met students from all over the world,&quot; Ahmed shares. &quot;We all found an organic way to deeply connect through a mutual love of sport under the canopy of NYU.&quot;</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Her time in the program has exceeded her expectations. The hands-on learning experiences, from <a href="/content/sps-nyu/experience/how-youll-learn/real-world.html" title="Real World">Real World</a> projects to immersive residencies in places like the United Arab Emirates, Brazil, and the UK, exposed her to the intricate relationship between sport and culture on a global scale. One of her most impactful projects was her capstone, where she designed a strategic partnership model between two soccer clubs, Sharjah FC in the UAE and Cruzeiro Esporte Clube in Brazil. This project, inspired by her residencies, allowed her to merge her technical and professional skills with her passion for sports, marking a major milestone in her career.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Her ultimate goal is to work in strategic partnerships within the soccer industry, helping shape team images and sponsorships that resonate deeply with fans and viewers alike.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">For Ahmed, the MS in Global Sport program has given her far more than just academic knowledge. &quot;The faculty here emphasizes a global perspective in every course,&quot; she says. Her mentors, especially Professor Kelly and Professor Carrozza, provided invaluable guidance, helping her transition from her engineering background to sports and offering continuous support.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Ahmed's advice to incoming students reflects her commitment to pushing boundaries. &quot;Engage fully with every assignment,&quot; she urges. &quot;Treat each task as if it were a project for your future boss; this mindset will help you assess your readiness for your career.&quot;</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">As she continues her career in global sport, Moona is determined to make her mark, knowing that the foundation she built at NYU SPS will help her achieve her goals.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Whether you're looking to make a career pivot or continue your sports industry career, the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-global-sport.html" title="MS in Global Sport">MS in Global Sport</a> program at NYU SPS places you at the center of it all. Apply today.</span></p>