INCOMING STUDENT-ATHLETES COMPLETE FIRST HUSKER ADVANTAGE SERIES

Closing out their last week of the #NILbraska Husker Advantage series, 47 Student-athletes from 10 different sports participated in a 5-week session where they received tools and resources to maximize their experience both here at Nebraska and beyond. Husker student-athletes gained knowledge and skills related to topics such as NIL, networking, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. 
 
The first 5-week session began with an overview of the Nebraska Life Skills department and the value they can bring to the student-athlete experience. With a 4-year tiered program, the Life Skills staff provides student-athletes with opportunities to engage with the community and develop leadership skills.  With a strong focus on preparing student-athletes for life after sports, the life skills staff meets with each student-athlete individually to aid in their personal and professional development.
 
During the first week of the Huskers Advantage series, student-athletes were introduced to Nebraska athletics from current Husker athletes Sadio Fenner and Madesyn Ronquillio. Husker Advantage attendees also heard from Executive Associate AD for Strategic Initiatives, Dr. Lawrence Chatters. Dr. Chatters discussed the importance of Huskers leading the charge to stop violence on campus.  Through small group discussions and role-playing scenarios, the student-athletes learned what it means to be an active bystander and the importance of using their voice.
 
Week two of the Husker Advantage series started with student athletes completing the Clifton Strengths assessment. The Clifton Strengths assessment exposes each athlete's top 5 strengths. With results in hand, they were given tools on how to utilize those strengths to make the most of their experience as a Husker. Guest speaker Tim Hodges provided information regarding additional opportunities available through the College of Business Clifton Strengths Institute. Week two wrapped up with presentations from Nick Burkhardt, the Director of Huskers Creative and Emerging Media, and Jeff Harris, Sr Account Manager for Opendorse. These presentations focused on how to build a personal brand, marketing that brand on social media, and how student athletes can partner with Opendorse to maximize their brand through NIL partnerships. 
 
During the last few weeks, student athletes explored topics dealing with communication, networking, and career exploration. Finishing up their final week, Jennifer A. Davidson, from the College of Business, spoke regarding financial literacy, how to set financial goals, and the importance of creating a plan. After the 5-week session, student-athletes participated in a community outreach event hosting a field day for the Malone Center. Student athletes provided tours of their practice spaces and played games with participants. 
 
The Husker Advantage series will continue July 19th with a new group of student athletes focused on the same topics as the first 5-week session. Returning athletes will continue their journey by building on the life skills gathered thus far through their Husker Advantage experience, for questions about the Husker Advantage program, contact Assistant Director of Life Skills, Tom Lemke.