Exploring Career Paths Courtside

Around 30 ambassadors attended the session, which featured four Athletics staff members:

• JC Godin – Assistant Director of Compliance
• Javon Patterson – Director of Development
• Josh Bender – Associate A.D. for Marketing & Fan Experience
• Ben Martin – Associate A.D. for Finance

Events like this give students a firsthand look into industries they may have never considered. College athletics is a world of its own; fast-paced, relationship-driven, and full of unique career paths. Hearing directly from professionals who keep Ole Miss Athletics running offers students valuable insight into job opportunities and the skills needed to succeed. Even more importantly, it allows them to start building relationships early, giving them a head start in a competitive field.

Students gathered in the Courtside Lounge of the Sandy and John Black Pavilion, where both basketball teams host their home games. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, complete with appetizers, game-day snacks, and soft drinks. After the panel, students enjoyed a networking session where they could speak one-on-one with the panelists and make meaningful connections.

To cap off the evening, the group headed to reserved seats for the women’s basketball game against Notre Dame. The Rebels delivered an unforgettable performance, storming back from a 19-point deficit to make program history.

This event is a powerful reminder of what getting involved on campus can offer— access to industry professionals, real-world learning, and experiences that go far beyond the classroom. Joining organizations like the Student Ambassadors doesn’t just build a résumé; it opens doors, builds confidence, and creates moments students will remember long after graduation.

Top: (Left to right) Josh Bender, Suezette Salazar, JC Godin, and Krystyna Burenok engaging in conversation.