Ethan Polak
Major: Sports Media and Strategic Communication
Communications Intern at the Seattle Seahawks
What is your current position and how did Butler help you build the skills you use now?
I am currently the season-long communications intern at the Seattle Seahawks. My role involves coordinating and transcribing press conferences, updating record books, statistics, and player bios, as well as assisting with the distribution of weekly releases, media guides, and other publications. My role serves as the “bridge” between the players, coaches, and the media.
Butler helped me reach this position by presenting the necessary real-world experience and connections to expand my skill set. Having a major city like Indianapolis (the greatest sports hub in the entire country) that is close to the university provides us students with countless opportunities to be a part of some of the largest sporting events each year. The university also has incredible professors and staff who helped me build connections and set me up for success when applying for jobs after college.
Looking at where you are today, how did Butler help shape that path?
Before I even arrived on campus, I was able to join The Butler Collegian, where I developed my skills as a sportswriter and on-camera reporter. When I wanted to explore sports production, I jumped right into working for Butler Sports Live as a broadcaster and producer. That opportunity eventually led to working as a camera operator for the Indiana Pacers. Even in the classroom, I built a campaign for Indy Parks, which gave me valuable insight into how to market a product. These are just three of the many ways students can shape their career paths through the incredible experiences at Butler.
What’s something you discovered about yourself while you were here?
When I first arrived on campus, I knew I wanted to work in sports. I thought about being a broadcaster, but soon bounced between journalism, production, and operations. After trying each of these different roles, I eventually learned I could pursue a role in communications. Each Strategic Communication class I took expanded my perspective on public relations and solidified that this is the job I would like to pursue after college. Butler’s flexibility and wide range of options for students allowed me to truly discover my passions and refine my skills before graduating.
Looking back, what experience at Butler ended up being more influential than you realized at the time?
During my junior year, I was recommended for an internship in athletic communications with Butler University Athletics. I served as the lead contact for track and field during my first year. Soon after, I took on more responsibility, adding three other sports, including women’s volleyball, lacrosse, and Butler’s nationally recognized cross country program. Thanks to the incredible staff and student-athletes, I enjoyed my role and stayed on for my senior year. The connections and experience I gained led me to a job with the NCAA after college, and eventually with the Seattle Seahawks.
What are your future career goals?
In the short term, I hope to land another role within the NFL, whether that’s another internship or a public relations coordinator position. Long term, I hope to become the director of communications for a professional sports team, preferably in the NFL.
What advice would you give a prospective student who’s considering Butler?
The sports industry is becoming more about who you know than what you know. So get your name out there as soon as possible. Attend a career fair, volunteer with BISE, write for The Butler Collegian, produce a game with Butler Sports Live, create your own website, or even send a simple LinkedIn message. It’s never too early to start building your network, because you never know where you might meet the right person who could lead you to your future career.