Betting On Himself: How COM’26 Sean Abramik Is Building a Future in Sports Media
“Upon entering Rutgers University, I promised myself a few non-negotiable rules,” said Sean Abramik COM’26, who created this personal challenge before he even stepped into a SC&I classroom. “Network in anything and everything and take the risk no matter how scared or uncertain I may feel.”
That mindset shaped not only his college experience, but also the path that led him to major in Communication and minor in Entrepreneurship. Early on, Abramik began to see how powerful relationships could be in professional spaces. “Connections are the backbone of many operations and can get you far,” he explained. Recognizing that reality pushed him to dive deeper into finding connections in the communication field. What started as curiosity quickly became a passion.
At the same time, he wanted to understand how communication worked beyond big organizations and media spaces. “I wanted to figure out the surface level of small businesses and how communication connects directly through them,” he said. Pairing his Communication major with an Entrepreneurship minor gave him what he calls “the knowledge that I needed to move me into the right direction” as he prepares to transition from student life to the professional world.
The Power of Interpersonal Communication
Two SC&I courses in particular, Communication in Relationships and Interpersonal Communications, have left a lasting mark on Abramik as some of the most meaningful academic experiences he’s had at SC&I. Both were taught by Jorlanditha Austin Ph.D.'25.
“These classes taught me a great amount of lessons in both life and relationships that I have cherished and continuously used,” he said. Noting the impact of the classes went far beyond theory or textbook, he said he learned how to read situations through emotional intelligence, recognize assertiveness and dominance in conversations, and understand how different communication styles can lead to either positive outcomes or tension.
Most importantly, Abramik says he learned how to make people feel seen and heard. “I learned how to interact with others on a personal level to help make them comfortable so they learn as much from me as I do from them,” he said, describing a skill set that applies just as much to everyday life as it does to professional environments.
Those lessons shifted his perspective in a lasting way. “It has changed my perspective moving forward that will stick with me for the rest of my time connecting in the real world,” he said.
Do not spend your time waiting for the perfect opportunity since it will never come,” he said. Instead, he believes in steady growth and self-discovery. “Build yourself up in order to learn, grow, and figure out who you are meant to be in your life and your story.
Seam Abramik
From Game Day to the Global Stage
That “real world” is coming into focus quickly. Abramik is set to graduate in January 2026 and will walk with his SC&I classmates at SC&I convocation in May 2026. His career goals are ambitious, fueled by both his love of sports and his experience working with Rutgers Athletics.
“My career aims are to be a part of a sports media team, specifically for the New York Knicks,” he said. He envisions himself either helping run game day operations to create unforgettable fan experiences or managing social media content that highlights players’ personalities and connects with fans on a deeper level.
“I currently intern for the Rutgers Athletic Communications, and I have had so much fun working with both the amazing staff and intern team, that it has made me want to pursue sports communication for a full-time position,” he said. The energy, teamwork, and behind-the-scenes coordination have only confirmed that he’s on the right track.
Looking even further ahead, Abramik’s dream stage is global. “My long-term goal is to be a part of the Olympic media team,” he said. The idea of capturing the world’s top athletes as they compete for gold is something he finds deeply inspiring. “Being able to witness that with my own eyes” is a goal that keeps him motivated through long days and busy semesters.
Growth Over Guarantees
Through it all, Abramik holds tight to a piece of advice that has shaped his outlook and that he now shares with others.
“Do not spend your time waiting for the perfect opportunity since it will never come,” he said. Instead, he believes in steady growth and self-discovery. “Build yourself up in order to learn, grow, and figure out who you are meant to be in your life and your story.”
He knows that uncertainty can feel overwhelming, especially for students trying to plan their futures. But he offers reassurance grounded in realism. “As much as it can be discouraging not having everything figured out, when is there a time when people do have it all figured out?”
For Sean Abramik, the answer is simple: don’t wait for clarity—create it by showing up, taking chances, and staying open to connection.
Learn more about the Communication major at the Rutgers School of Communication and Information on the website.
Image provided by Sean Abramik.