Thiago DeQueiroz: Kinesiology

Thiago graduated magna cum laude on May 21, 2022, with a Bachelor of Arts in Sport Management. He was accepted into the M.S. in Sports Administration program at the University of Louisville! Thiago is from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Tell us about some of the professional opportunities that have presented themselves while you've attended SAU. How will you use those now or in the future?
I had some great professional opportunities while studying here at the SAU. First, with my Practicum in Sports Management class, taught by Dr. Eikleberry, I had the experience of working with the QC Storm. It was not only my first time working with them but also the first time going to the Tax Slayer Center. I made some great connections during that opportunity. Also, in my Sports Sales class, taught by Dr. Spencer, I had the opportunity to work with the QC Steamwheelers. Again, awesome working with them and being able to make connections with professional teams. I hope to use those connections in the future, especially for recommendations.

What was a defining moment or very memorable experience you had as a student in the Department of Kinesiology?
I believe that I had many memories with both my advisors, Dr, Eikleberry and Dr. Spencer, they both guided me really well through my degree. All the conversations and one-on-ones with them were very special for me because I felt I was not only a number but a person and a student. They both helped me throughout hard times I had to get my degree.

What drew you initially to our department? Has that motivation changed over the course of the years you've been at SAU?
I love sports and I noticed that St. Ambrose has great connections with some of the main local teams which was something I was looking for with working experience. I keep loving sports but I believe that my original idea of the area I was planning to work with might have changed a little bit because I now want to work more with professional teams instead of my initial idea of working with a school or college athletics.

What advice might you give to a prospective student considering the Dept. of Kinesiology at SAU?
Study hard and use your resources. The Kinesiology Department has great professors such as Dr. Eikleberry, Dr. Spencer, Dr. Hu, and many others. They are very respectful, they have great knowledge of what they are teaching, and they are willing to help you whenever you need them.

What advice might you give to someone just starting the bulk of their required departmental coursework?
Again, study and use your advisor because they are going to know the best path for your degree. Also, understand all the requirements for your degree and do not wait until the last minute to take your major classes.

How did your affiliation with St. Ambrose help you in your job search or graduate school search?
I have been well guided by my advisors. I owe them a lot for that. Dr. Eikleberry and Dr. Spencer made my life easier because they have been by my side throughout my whole SAU career. Especially I would like to mention Dr. Spencer because he helped me with my graduate school search and I am very grateful for that.