Alumni Spotlight: Chloe Janfaza MA '16
After receiving her bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, with a concentration in Exercise and Movement Sciences from San Francisco State University, Bay Area native and SMC Graduate Kinesiology alumna Chloe Janfaza MA ‘16, was ready for a challenge that would bring her closer to working in the world of sports administration.
Eager to take advantage of all the different opportunities and coursework offered through the Graduate Kinesiology program, Chloe landed a position as a Facility Operations Coordinator for the newly opened Joseph L. Alioto Recreation Center on campus. Shortly thereafter, Chloe began working in Stadium Operations and Guest Services with a variety of Bay Area collegiate and professional sports teams, including SMC Athletics, CAL Athletics, the Oakland A’s, the Golden State Warriors, and the Oakland Raiders, where she currently serves as Manager of Guest Services and works to provide high-quality experiences for fans at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum.
Chloe is able to directly apply what she has learned from the program towards her profession. “KINES 330: Supervision and Legal Aspects was an amazing class. I apply the course’s materials to Stadium Operations and Venue Management each day.” Chloe also applies what she’s learned from the KINES 372: External Relations: Media, Public Relations, Marketing & Sponsorships class, and utilizes communication tactics while training her staff. She shared, “I learned more about the business side of sports at SMC, which was helpful because my undergraduate degree was so science focused.”
Chloe’s advice for those interested in working in the sports world: “Build your network and never turn down a learning opportunity even if it isn't directly in line with your career goals. You have to make a lot of personal sacrifices that people who don't work in sports won’t understand. Make sure you get yourself a work family to make up for it. Also, stay in touch with your teachers! They are a great asset.”