Beth Worthy
6/20/2025
We’re proud to introduce Emma Schaeffer as the recipient of our 2025 Summer Semester Academic Scholarship! A sophomore at the University of Florida, Emma is pursuing a degree in Media Production, Management, and Technology, along with a certificate in Sport Management.
Emma’s passion for sports, dedication to her studies, and deep sense of compassion shine through in everything she does, from completing multiple marathons to volunteering with a student-run club that prepares meals for the homeless. Her goal? To combine her love for sports and media by becoming a social media coordinator for an NHL team, a dream fueled by childhood memories of cheering on the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Congratulations, Emma! We’re excited to support you on your journey and can’t wait to see where your drive and determination take you next.
Here’s what Emma has to say-
I am Emma Schaeffer, a current sophomore at the University of Florida studying Media Production, Management, and Technology, while also pursuing a certificate in Sport Management. Sports have always been a passion of mine; I grew up competing in gymnastics before transitioning to running.
Through both my experiences in sports and personal relationships, I have learned a great deal about myself. My parents’ divorce after fifth grade was challenging, as it shattered my vision of a “picture-perfect” family. However, witnessing how they navigated this change with grace while prioritizing my siblings and me was inspiring. This taught me the importance of caring for others and treating everyone with kindness, no matter the circumstances.
I strive to carry myself with compassion and humility in my everyday life. Throughout the school year, I volunteer on Sundays with A Reason To Give, a student-run club on campus that meets weekly to make meals for the homeless. It is a small act that allows me to contribute to the community and meet others who share similar values.
Additionally, I have trained and completed multiple marathons. Through this, I have proved that I am stronger than I ever believed, and that the sky's the limit. Waking up at dawn to run countless miles over the course of three months pushed both my mental and physical limits. I take pride in my dedication to training for such races. The encouragement I received from others was invaluable. I was often told that the marathon is just your victory lap; the real challenge lies within your training. My perseverance and commitment to bettering myself through running and physical activity is something I pride myself in.
Attending and participating in sporting events has shown me that nothing compares to the thrill, energy, and excitement of sports. That is where my passion truly lies. I aspire to connect fans with their favorite teams and athletes through sports marketing and media. Growing up in the digital age, I keep up with my favorite teams and personalities through social media. I want to help bridge the gap between fans and brands. My dream is to work as a social media coordinator for an NHL team, as I grew up attending Tampa Bay Lightning games with my parents. I hope that my career will not only allow me to travel the world and have unforgettable experiences but also empower me to inspire the next generation and connect with people beyond a screen.
