Alumni Profile: Gavin Linkous ’21

Like many Marietta graduates before him, Gavin Linkous ’21 was nervous about going to a larger institution for graduate school. Was he ready for the challenges that awaited? Was he really prepared for the coursework? Would his experience at Marietta translate?

He learned quickly that he was more than prepared for the Master of Sport Administration program at Ohio University. He also plans to complete his MBA by 2023.

“The transition has been easy,” Gavin says. “I had a great foundation at Marietta College, and I am more than prepared for my classes.”

Gavin was an outstanding student in Marietta’s Sport Management program, but he also gained valuable experience outside of the classroom as President of SBA (Student Business Association). He also volunteered at the Boca Bowl in Florida in 2017 and 2018, was a game-day volunteer at a West Virginia University football game and helped lead a group of students during the annual Community Baseball and Softball games on campus.

Gavin also enjoyed two internship experiences with the Western & Southern Open professional tennis tournament in Cincinnati, Ohio. The first year he was a facilities and communications intern, and the second year he gained experience in corporate partnerships.

“All my experience with my internships has been leading me into a partnership development position,” Gavin says. “One thing that I’ve opened my eyes to more now more than anything, but how much business is in college athletics.”

Entering his senior year, Gavin was planning to go into the workforce and start building his résumé. As the year progressed, he warmed up to the idea of continuing his education at Ohio University.

“I feel lucky getting into this program, especially considering it is the No. 1 program in the nation,” he says. “At first, it brought on some anxiety. But Marietta prepared me well over my four years, especially having the right mindset and being able to have conversations with people.”

The up-close and personal attention at Marietta College had a big impact on Gavin.

“I think a great selling point of Marietta’s Sport Management program is the job shadows that were made available to us because of Professor Rick Smith’s connections in the industry,” Gavin says. “I also think the coursework can’t be overlooked. Having that liberal arts background has translated well in graduate school and I know it will do the same when I enter the workforce.”