Skip to Top NavigationSkip to ContentSkip to Footer
Ferris State University BulldogFerris State University Logo

Alumnus Cole to Share Story of His Journey to the NBA's Indiana Pacers in Sports Communication Series

Eric ColeEric Cole, an alumnus of Ferris State University, will return to campus this fall to discuss “Marketing a Pro Basketball Team: An Insider’s Story” on Monday, Sept. 17 as part of the Sports Communication Speaker Series.

The free event, which begins at 4:30 p.m. in College of Business Room 111, is sponsored by the Sports Communication program and the Sports Careers campus student organization. It is open to the public.

After graduating from Ferris, Cole, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Sports Marketing with certificates in Sales and Public Relations, began working in marketing as an account executive for the Indiana Pacers of the National Basketball Association. He is excited to make the trip from Indianapolis to Big Rapids to share his story with students, faculty, staff and community members.

“I am looking forward to sharing my story with my fellow FSU Bulldogs and showing how no matter what size school you go to, you can always achieve your goals,” Cole said. “Ferris internships really go a long way in separating you from all your competition. Plus, me getting involved on campus and putting myself in the best positions to succeed really helped me to land my dream job.”

Part of Cole’s message will focus on what students can do to market themselves to potential employers as they look ahead to graduation. He wants to provide the audience with an insider’s view as to what takes place behind the scenes of an NBA franchise so people can understand what it takes to host each game.

“I’m excited to share my experiences,” Cole said. “For me, being a part of an NBA organization and feeling like all your work goes toward a common goal of winning a championship really keeps me motivated and keeps me striving to be better every day. I am constantly learning new sales techniques that keep me getting better at my craft.

“Once you find the career you love, it doesn’t feel like you are going to a ‘job’ every day. You actually want to go to work,” he added.

Even as Cole, who graduated from Ferris in May 2011, has moved on to his professional career, his alma mater still holds a special place in his heart.

“I’m a Pacer right now, but I’ll always be a Bulldog,” he said.