University of North Carolina Athletics
SAAC Spotlight: Rob Lovejoy
October 28, 2014 | Men's Soccer, Student-Athlete Development
Get to know the UNC Student-Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC) representatives each week through our SAAC Spotlight series. First up is Rob Lovejoy, a senior on the men's soccer team.
SAAC is composed of appointed representatives from each of UNC's 28 varsity teams and helps promote communication between faculty, administrators, coaches and student-athletes. SAAC members meet monthly to discuss ideas and issues pertinent to UNC Athletics, the ACC and the NCAA.
SAAC Spotlight: Rob Lovejoy
Senior • Business Administration • Men's Soccer • Greensboro, N.C.
1. How did you choose your major?
I knew coming out of high school that business was something I wanted to study. It is a very versatile, practical major that positions you for numerous career options.
2. What's your favorite class you've taken at UNC and why?
Introduction to Real Estate (BUSI 585): This was the class that sparked my interest in real estate and led to my decision to choose it as an area of emphasis in the business school. The teacher was very engaging and willing to assist outside of class with career advice.
3. Who is a favorite professor you've had at UNC and what did you enjoy about learning from him or her?
Blaine Strickland was the name of the BUSI 585 professor who brought so much energy to class and made learning fun. He has a natural gift for teaching and the fact he commutes from Orlando proves his dedication to his job.
4. What are your career goals?
I would like to play soccer as long as I am able to. Hopefully this means at the professional level. But I know there will be life after soccer. I would like to work in commercial real estate, which I believe I am well-positioned to do whenever my soccer career ends.
5. What advice would you give to incoming UNC freshmen?
Enjoy your time here. You are attending one of the best universities in the world in terms of education, athletics, people, and resources at your disposal. It is easy to become consumed by the everyday responsibilities of a student-athlete, but have fun. Wear a smile and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
6. Why did you choose UNC?
I was going to attend UNC regardless of whether I played soccer or not. As an in-state student, it was always my school of choice. Being able to play soccer and study here has been both a dream and a blessing.
8. What do you think is the prettiest place on campus?
Nothing beats the Old Well in the springtime, besides Fetzer Field at the beginning of August.
9. What does it mean to be a Division I student-athlete?
Most Division I student-athletes share a few characteristics. Most are disciplined, driven, experts in time management, and serve as role models.
10. What leadership skills have you learned while being a student-athlete at UNC?
I have learned a lot about leadership throughout my career at UNC. I have learned how to lead by example on and off the field. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to learn from several current professional players when they were a part of our program here in Chapel Hill. Their lifestyle and dedication to the team molded me into the person I am today. Every person has needs unique to him/her. As a leader, it is your responsibility to cater to those specific needs. A quote Kirk Urso, captain of our 2011 National Championship team, always used was, "Build others up according to their needs." I love that.
11. What's the most important thing you've learned from balancing the demands of athletics and academics?
I've learned that you should never pass up a good opportunity to learn. Although I may have missed out on joining some clubs or meeting different people, I have no regrets. During my time here at UNC, I was a starter on one of our program's best teams, I was accepted into the University's prestigious Business School. I was able to study abroad (in Spain) in a continent I had never visited. And the list goes on. But all of this was possible because I took advantage of the opportunities and the resources I had. Some people take it all for granted and miss out, as a result, on certain experiences. I didn't miss out on much and that is why my experience has been so enjoyable.
