For Connor Lawson ’27, M’28, a lifelong passion for sports and storytelling has culminated in an extraordinary opportunity: an internship with NBC Sports’ production department for the Winter Olympics. A student in the Barney School of Business’ 3+1 program, Connor will earn both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in four years.
As a sports management major with a minor in digital media and journalism, he is gaining firsthand experience on one of the world’s biggest sports stages well before completing his degree. Connor credits UHart, and the Barney School of Business in particular, for helping him turn ambition into action.
“I’ve always loved sports and the stories behind them,” Connor says. “Barney really allowed me to pursue both the business and sports sides of the industry while also strengthening my communication skills through my minor. That combination was essential for landing this role.”
Connor’s Olympic internship is the result of intentional preparation and relationship-building, skills emphasized throughout his UHart experience. He points to Barney’s strong focus on professional development as a key differentiator during the competitive application process.
“UHart emphasized the importance of personal connections and finding ways to stand out from other candidates,” he explains. “That mindset was crucial in securing this position.”
Career-ready programs such as the Norgaard Etiquette Dinner and BAR 211 guest speaker series provided valuable insight into professional expectations and day-to-day workplace realities, while interview preparation through Barney helped Connor confidently articulate his experiences and career goals.
“Barney taught me how to interview effectively, how to communicate my experiences professionally, and respond thoughtfully to questions,” Connor notes. “That preparation made a huge difference.”
Behind the scenes, faculty support played a critical role in making the Olympic internship possible. Connor credits faculty members John Papa, Rebecca Ranucci, and Susan Cardillo for helping design a modified academic schedule and guiding him through the application and interview process.
“They went above and beyond to make this opportunity work,” Connor says. “From logistics to encouragement, their support meant everything.”
Connor says one of the most rewarding aspects of his UHart experience is the campus culture itself. “The small, interconnected campus feels more like a family than just a program,” he emphasizes. “Professors genuinely care about your success and take the time to build meaningful connections.”
Outside the classroom, Connor is a member of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity, enjoys traveling, attending live sporting events, and reading comic books. He is also an Eagle Scout, an achievement he says helped prepare him both personally and professionally for high-pressure opportunities like the Olympics.
After graduation, Connor plans to continue working in sports production in the Northeast before transitioning into a more business-focused role within the industry. With Olympic experience already on his résumé, he’s well on his way.
Connor Lawson ’27, M’28, University of HartfordI’ve always loved sports and the stories behind them. Barney really allowed me to pursue both the business and sports sides of the industry while also strengthening my communication skills through my minor. That combination was essential for landing this role.