Texas A&M students to gain hands-on experience at NFL draft
Eight students from the College of Education and Human Development will help with fan activities, media and talent at one of the nation’s biggest sporting events.
While millions of fans watch the NFL draft this week, eight students from the College of Education and Human Development at Texas A&M University will be there in person, gaining real-world experience at one of the largest sporting events of the year.
Led by Dr. Mark LaSota of the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management, the students will work all three days of the 2026 NFL draft, April 23-25, serving in paid professional roles with the NFL and the city of Pittsburgh’s official tourism organization. This is LaSota’s first time providing this opportunity, which he created through years of cultivating industry relationships and participating in the 2024 NFL draft in Detroit.
“Experiences like the NFL draft allow students to connect classroom learning with real-world responsibilities while representing Texas A&M on a national stage,” he said.
The eight students were selected through a highly competitive application and interview process. They are Chase Cross of Southlake, Texas, Kegan Dimick of Tomball, Texas, Audrey Faulk of Richmond, Washington, Renzo Garone of Weston, Connecticut, Zach Kizer of Lubbock, Texas, Madison Orr of El Paso, Texas, Emily Swift of Austin, Texas and Lucas Turner of Nederland, Texas.
The students will assist with various duties that may include coordinating with fan zones and sponsors, assisting media and helping manage the needs of talent on stage.
LaSota says students will return to campus with experience they can apply to their work in class and future careers. This experience also reflects Texas A&M’s commitment to serve as a force for good, providing students with opportunities to serve communities through professional excellence.
