Cleveland State University (CSU) recently shone a spotlight on William Sola, a member of the class of 2025, who has not only navigated the academic rigor of his chosen fields but has also built a significant portfolio of practical experience through internships. In particular, Sola's involvement with the Cleveland Guardians and FIFA has marked him as a standout student at CSU, earning him recognition as a Student of Distinction.
In a conversation with CSU, Sola expressed his gratitude for landing two major internships. His first big break was with the Cleveland Guardians, an opportunity that he characterized as "truly such an incredible experience to be a part of that team and contribute even 1% of the success that the ballclub had last season," as reported by CSU News. Currently, he is working in Miami, Florida, as a FIFA World Cup 2026 Future Leaders Intern, a position allowing him to combine his love for sports with the practical aspects of running a high-profile event. Sola has managed to successfully balance this role while continuing his coursework online from Florida.
Throughout his tenure at CSU, Sola has also developed strong connections with the faculty and staff, which have been pivotal in his academic and professional journey. He cites his relationships with professors David Stack, Todd Nelson, and Jeff Lewis in International Relations, and Ron Willner and Jim Kahler in Sports Management, as instrumental to his growth and pursuit of a career in the sports industry. "The connections I have made while learning from professors like David Stack, Todd Nelson, and Jeff Lewis were the main factor in pursuing a degree in International Relations," Sola told CSU News.
Apart from his commendable academic and internship endeavors, Sola speaks fondly of his experience working at CSU's Recreation Center for four years. He highlights the support he received from the Rec's Prostaff. He singles out individuals like Chris Stewart, Mackenzie Lamar, and, in particular, Cam Johnson, who have been a significant part of his support system. Sola shares, "People like Chris Stewart, Mackenzie Lamar, and especially Cam Johnson have been my rocks at the Rec," according to the CSU News interview. On a more personal note, he adds that Johnson has become one of his best friends back in Cleveland.
