Sport Studies

Tyrese (23) grew up in the Netherlands. With a dad from Aruba and a mum from Jamaica, he learned 2 languages at home. In high school he combined school with competitive swimming. When he started Sport Studies – track ISMB, he stopped swimming to fully focus on his studies.

Why Sport Studies was the right fit

‘I wanted to study in English because I felt this would help my future career. I was not yet sure which field I wanted to work in. I did know that I liked sport and did not want to sit still all day. Sport Studies was the perfect match.’

From guest lecture to internship at Patagonia

‘I did my strategic internship in year 4 at Patagonia. I learned about the brand in the Sport Commerce minor in year 3, which I highly recommend. A Patagonia employee gave a guest lecture, and that is how I became interested.

When I applied for internships, I chose large brands such as McLaren, Nike, adidas, Patagonia and Lego. Patagonia offered me a place in the Retail Marketing department. I learned a lot about the environment, sustainability and tried new outdoor sports. It was an eye-opening experience.’

Dream internship at Nike HQ

‘I did my graduation internship at Nike European Headquarters in the Netherlands. I worked in Real Estate operations, the department that finds and closes deals for all Nike-owned stores in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. As someone who collects sneakers and worked in a Nike store, I always wanted to grow and work at Nike EHQ.

It took several applications before I got in, so it is not easy. It was interesting to see how a billion-dollar company works behind the scenes and how different Nike and Patagonia are. I did my graduation project in another Nike department, one that focuses on product. That is an area I want to work in later.’

Programme highlights

‘Personally: meeting people from around the world. Studying with international classmates was great. Hearing their stories, doing sports together and hanging out are things I will never forget.

Academically: the Sport Commerce minor showed me what I can do after graduating. Guest lecturers from companies we usually study in class were inspiring and gave me a clearer direction for my future career.’

What’s next after graduation

‘After graduation I will go back to Singapore and travel in Asia for a month. I hope to have a job shortly after so I can start my career. I see myself working in sports commerce at a company that creates products. It feels great when your work results in a physical product you can hold.’

Tyrese’s tip for new students

‘Try to earn all your credits in year 1 and year 2 as soon as you can. But also enjoy student life and have fun with your classmates outside class.’

Excited?

Curious if Sport Studies is the right fit for you? Come and experience it for yourself! Get a feel for the programme, ask all your questions and see if this is the study for you.