The Faces Behind FOS: Joe Barca

As the summer winds down, we decided to showcase the many faces behind FOS, what they do outside of the site and what their career aspirations are! Today you get to meet one of our contributors, Joe Barca

What is your current role/year in school outside of FOS?

I am going into my final year at the University of Iowa. I plan on graduating in May of 2016 with a degree in both Journalism and Recreation & Sport Management. At school, I work part-time at a coffee shop in the school’s library. I also author a weekly fantasy football column for Advanced Sports Logic.

What is your current role for FOS and how long have you been doing that?

I am an Interview Contributor for Front Office Sports. I interview a minimum of two sports business professionals every month. I started with Front Office Sports in the beginning of August, 2015.

What drew you to FOS in the beginning and why do you think it is important for students and young professionals to know that this resource is out there?

Front Office Sports was the only website of its kind. It has first-hand advice from sports business professionals and links to a variety of jobs and internships. If you’re serious about getting into the sports business field, Front Office Sports is a great place to start.

Favorite professional sports team? Favorite venue that you have been too?

My favorite professional sports team is the Chicago White Sox. I love baseball and grew up watching the team on the South Side. Favorite venue that I’ve been to is U.S. Cellular Field during a meaningful baseball game. It’s been a long time since the Sox were relevant, but I remember the playoff game I attended in 2008. There was nothing like it and I cannot wait to be back in that atmosphere.

Career aspirations and goals?

There are two positions in mind that I would love to have. One is a Sports Journalist in the city of Chicago covering any of the major sports teams. Working in the city for the teams I root for would drive me to succeed. Another position would be one in Team Operations for any NFL or MLB team.

Words of wisdom?

My words of wisdom for students and young professionals would be make connections with either your professors or colleagues and get your name out. Start branding yourself and look for opportunities. Take whatever you can and give it 100%.

By this time next year I see myself…..

In one of three places. One, as a Sports Journalist covering Chicago sports. Two, in graduate school pursuing a Master’s degree in Recreation & Sports Management. Three, in an entry-level position for a sports business firm.