(Photo courtesy Advocate staff)

By Kriuthi Nandam – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law’s Business and Journalism classes recently hosted a very special guest speaker.

Famous sportscaster Dan Patrick, who currently hosts The Dan Patrick Show and who formerly worked for ESPN, spoke on March 13 to a group of Law students about the lessons learned in his decades-long career in broadcasting. Patrick has also appeared in several Adam Sandler movies and has covered all major sports and the Olympics.

During his visit, Patrick talked about taking advantage of opportunities when they present themselves. He also discussed the importance of young people believing in themselves and about the need to put maximum effort into working towards your dreams.

Patrick said he hoped his message reached all of the students in the audience, not just those looking for a career in sports broadcasting.

“My message was not really directed towards an athlete or someone who wants to work in sports,” Patrick said. “It is for everybody and I hope they looked at it in a perspective that benefits them.” 

Freshman David Guery said the advice Patrick gave was very motivating.

“Some the advice he gave was to Be sure of what you want to do so you won’t regret it later on,” Guery said. “You need to be prepared if you want to reach your goal.”

Freshman Aryan Sikhinam said the whole assembly was inspirational and uplifting. He said he liked the question and answer part of the assembly as other students could ask about Patrick’s journey.

“He told us never to give up on our dreams and to pursue them, even if you fail the first time,” Sikhinam said. 

Business teacher Mrs. Israelite, who organized Patrick’s visit, said that she hopes students learned some valuable lessons from Patrick’s visit.

“I loved that part of Dan Patrick’s message was for students to follow their dreams, but he also provided a road map to success by explaining the importance of hard work, determination, experience, volunteering and internships,” Israelite said.