Extracurricular Experiences
How Do RESM Students Connect with Industry Professionals Outside the Classroom?
The Recreation and Sport Management program offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities that help students build professional networks, explore career paths, and gain firsthand exposure to the recreation and sport industries.
Experiential Learning Trips
Each semester, RESM students have the opportunity to participate in an Experiential Learning Trip designed to connect classroom concepts with real-world industry experiences.
- Fall Learning Trips typically consist of a one-day exploration of organizations and facilities throughout Northwest Arkansas.
- Spring Learning Trips often involve multiday travel experiences outside the region, allowing students to engage with professionals and organizations across the sport, recreation, tourism and event industries.
These trips provide students with valuable networking opportunities, behind-the-scenes facility tours, and career insights from industry leaders.
Recent Trip Highlights
- Fall 2025: Fayetteville High School, Walton Family Whole Health & Fitness Center, Visit Bentonville, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Blessings Golf Club, Razorback Golf and Outlyr
- Spring 2026: University of Oklahoma Athletics, Oklahoma City Thunder, Riversport OKC, Visit OKC and Devon Park/USA Softball
RESM Club / Mu Sigma Lambda
RESM students can become involved in RESM Club/Mu Sigma Lambda, a coeducational sport business fraternity dedicated to supporting students' academic, professional, and personal growth. It is an RSO (Registered Student Organization).
The organization's mission:
"To advance the academic, professional and personal development of students aspiring to careers in the sport industry by creating meaningful opportunities, fostering community, and preparing members to lead with integrity in a competitive field."
Members participate in:
- Professional development workshops
- Networking events with industry professionals
- Social activities and community-building opportunities
- Service initiatives
- Leadership development experiences
Students who choose to join Mu Sigma Lambda also gain access to additional opportunities provided through the national organization.
Learn more about the national fraternity.
Mentorship and Alumni Connections
The RESM program works closely with the Alumni Mentoring Program (AMP) of the College of Education and Health Professions to connect students with professionals who can support their academic, personal, and career development.
Through this partnership, RESM students are encouraged to participate in a structured six-week mentoring program offered each fall and spring semester. Students are matched with RESM alumni professionals who provide guidance, share career experiences and help students navigate their educational and professional journeys.
Benefits of participating in AMP include:
- Being paired with an RESM alumnus/alumna mentor
- Learning about career paths in recreation and sport
- Receiving advice on internships, graduate school, and career preparationDeveloping professional networking and communication skills
- Gaining insight into workplace expectations and industry trends
- Expanding professional connections within the RESM alumni network
By partnering with AMP, RESM creates opportunities for students to connect classroom learning with real-world career experiences while expanding their professional networks beyond campus.
This collaboration reflects RESM's commitment to helping students build professional connections, explore career pathways and prepare for success after graduation.
Who should I contact with questions about extracurricular experiences?
Joni Williamson, Ed.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Extracurricular Experiences
Recreation and Sport Management Program
University of Arkansas
joniw@uark.edu