Playbooks and Case Studies: Balancing A Thriving NFL Career and Grad School
Andrew Hawkins, a starting wide receiver of the Cleveland Browns, is a busy man these days. Between studying playbooks to make moves on the field, Hawkins is now taking on case studies as a student enrolled at one of the top ranked business schools in the country.
After enrolling at Kelley School of Business at Indiana University this past spring, it was clear Hawkins is diligent not only about football, but also finding the perfect play for post-football career moves. Inspired by his perseverance, insight and dedication, we sat down with the five-year veteran to learn more about his experience and what future plans may hold.
What motivated you begin the MBA program at Kelley? How was your registration process?
“I’ve always wanted to get an MBA, so I was eager for the opportunity to continue my education. Working with Libby Andrews (at Kelley) was great, and she helped communicate the needs for registration whether it was references, your statement of purpose, résumé and transcripts from undergraduate studies. She was a big help in pinpointing which programs and classes you should be taking to complete the degree.”
Why did you sign up?
“I’m always thinking about the future and life after football. It was a great opportunity from a top business school in the country. They cater to my schedule. It’s overall very player friendly.”
Why do you think guys are resistant to go back to school?
“School is not for everybody. Some didn’t know it was available, but now that I’ve had these discussions with different guys, they are more aware.”
How do you balance football, family, fatherhood and your continuing education?
“They are all things that I need, so I look at them as one. It’s all about what I think is important. Football has provided the opportunity to support my family. I have entrepreneurial aspirations in the future, and the MBA gives you something to fall back on. There is a clear advantage of having an MBA after football in order to best take advantage of new opportunities.”
What advice do you have for collegiate players who may be entering the league soon?
“Think about your career backward-forward. Be one of the guys who thinks about the end goal early and the planning and preparation will really pay dividends. The ones who do so are going to be the most successful.”
Straight From The Source
Libby Andrew, Assistant Director Business Operations & Graduate Certificate Programs at Kelley School of Business, works directly with the players on registration and admission. She adds, “After the application, I work one-on-one with each player to organize courses that best fit their schedules. Terms will vary; it could be class during one term and then taking off two terms during the playing season. Overall, it’s about whatever works best for their schedule and lives.”
For active players concerned about the season schedule or being anchored down by courses, Andrew counters those important concerns. “Classes are recorded, so if you miss a session you can go back and view it later. Registration for winter ends very soon, but spring term starts March 7. We use use a quarter system: fall, winter, spring, summer; all 12 weeks in length instead of traditional models.”
Sign up today and get on track to earning your MBA! Winter enrollment ends November 11, but admissions are rolling throughout each quarter. Contact Dior Ginyard at Dior.Ginyard@NFLPA.com for more information on how to get started.