Get to Know Dr. Claudia Benavides-Espinoza at Arkansas State

Dr. Claudia Benavides-Espinoza is an Associate Professor in charge of the Sports Management program. Let's learn a little more about her.

 

Where were you born?

Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico

Why did you choose A-State?

A-State has a very high-quality undergraduate and graduate program in sports management. The low faculty-to-student ratio reflects, in part, a commitment to educational quality and student development. At the same time, living in a city rich in tradition offers a great sense of comfort and is a wonderful place to live with family.

What makes a good student?

Time management is essential. Busy students always have great opportunities to learn when they know how to prioritize and organize their daily tasks. I also believe that students who take advantage of the resources available to them — such as the library, the writing center, computer labs, the multicultural center, and clubs like our own Sports Management Club — progress more quickly and steadily, becoming the sought-after professionals of the near future.

Your teaching philosophy in seven words:

Learning by doing what others just read.

(Learning by doing what others just read.)

Only my friends know that I once…

Crashed Emmitt Smith's party at Super Bowl XLIX!

If you could teach in a different field, what would you choose and why?

I have a natural talent for management, so I would probably enjoy working in educational administration. Teaching a management class is like enjoying the cherry on top of a brownie sundae, covered in ice cream, caramel, chocolate, and all sorts of wonderful toppings.

My favorite trip was…

Taking students to volunteer at Super Bowl XLIX in Phoenix.

If I could travel anywhere, I would choose…

The 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil.

What is the one thing you most want people to understand about your field?

A sports manager's job isn't just about selling tickets. We're involved in every area of sports — youth sports, recreation and fitness facilities, intercollegiate and professional leagues, rehabilitation centers, multi-purpose sports and entertainment venues, and more. Every type of sport needs us — sports managers.

4 people I would invite for coffee…

Johnny Football, Michael Sam, Becky Hammon, and Tim Tebow. I think that would be an amazing gathering =)

My favorite professional sports team is…

I actually prefer college teams. Go RedWolves!… And Gig'em!

The perfect day is…

Today!

Dinner or late-night snack?

Dinner

I wish I could…

Teleport from one place to another!

Favorite song to play while driving?

Arrepentios Pecadores by Willie Rosario

Favorite podcast?

Dave Ramsey

The last book you read for pleasure was…

Integrity by Henry Cloud

Favorite quote…

"Be the change you want to see in the world" – Gandhi

(Be the change you want to see in the world.)