Applied Learning Stories

After earning her bachelor’s degree in physical education, PreK–12, in fall 2023, Trajata Colbert returned to Wichita State in spring 2025 to complete her student teaching and earn her teaching license. During this final step in her preparation, she gained hands-on experience through an applied learning placement that took her to multiple schools. These rotations provided a variety of professional experiences and meaningful connections with students—solidifying her path as a fully licensed teacher after spring 2025.

Liam O’Connor is an education major specializing in history and government for 6-12th grade. Liam has spent most of his life in Wichita, Kansas, though his journey began in Southern California. Liam is currently working as a student teacher. He has received applied learning funds allowing him to fully focus on developing as a teacher. His responsibilities as a student teacher include—handling instruction, grading, unit creation, and classroom management. His goal after graduation is to become a Social Studies teacher, ideally at a middle school, a choice that often surprises people. “While some think that I am ‘crazy’ for that, I think they are the perfect age!” Looking further ahead, Liam eventually aspires to become a school administrator, envisioning a future where he could lead as a principal.

In the summer of 2023, Amaya Harris interned as a Marketing and Hospitality Manager at Ballparks of America in Branson, Missouri. This experience immersed her in a fast-paced, hands-on environment where she was responsible for a variety of tasks that spanned photography, editing, team registration, hospitality management, and event preparation.

Bella, a recent graduate of the fall 2024 class, earned her Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science and is now embarking on the next chapter of her journey. She is pursuing a Master of Education in Exercise Science, further deepening her knowledge and expertise in the field. Originally from Moriarty, New Mexico, Bella was heavily involved in sports and various school organizations throughout her academic career.

Brendan Kohler’s journey through Wichita State University is a testament to the power of applied learning experiences and the impact of a well-rounded education. As a proud double alumnus, earning his Bachelor’s degree in 2021 and his Master’s degree in 2022 in Sport Management, he has taken the knowledge and skills acquired at WSU and applied them to his career as a Topps Senior Production Coordinator at Fanatics. His story highlights the significance of hands-on learning, mentorship, and diverse educational opportunities in shaping a professional path.

Reflecting on his time in the sport management program at WSU, Brendan credits the wide range of available courses for his preparedness in the sports industry. He notes that learning about different sectors within the field has equipped him with the flexibility to pursue various career paths. “The sport management program at Wichita State helped me immensely in my professional and personal development. One thing that stands out to me looking back on it is the wide range of classes available for students to take. I learned a lot about many sectors of the sport industry in those classes, and with that knowledge, I feel like I would now be well prepared for many different jobs in the sports industry.”

Daysha Bullocks earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism in 2020 and her master’s degree in sport management in 2021. During her time at Wichita State, she excelled not only academically but also athletically, competing as a track and field sprinter. Balancing rigorous academics and athletics, Daysha’s exceptional time-management skills allowed her to seize a variety of applied learning opportunities that paved the way for her future success.

Meet Ja'Nae McKelvy, a dedicated Sport Management student at Wichita State University, who is making significant strides in her field. After completing an internship with the Kansas City Chiefs as a KC Training Camp Intern this past summer, Ja'Nae is excited to take on a new role as the Fall 2024 intern with the Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation.

Ashlyn Riggs, a senior in Wichita State University’s online  Teacher Apprentice Program™ (TAP) , is not just working toward her Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Unified / Elementary Education—she’s already living her dream of becoming a teacher. 

Ryan Summerlin, a senior sport management major at Wichita State University, spent his summer as a Sport Management Intern at Ballparks of America in Branson, Missouri. His internship provided an immersive experience in various aspects of the sport industry, from event management and public relations to facility maintenance and crisis management.