Kean Business Student Scores Jobs with Both NY Jets and NY Giants

When Kean University senior Sebastian Salazar graduated from high school in 2020, he wrote in his yearbook that his 10-year goal was to work for an NFL franchise.

Salazar more than reached his goal – a few years ahead of schedule – when he landed jobs with both the New York Jets and New York Giants.

“Seeing Rodgers' first snap as a Jet in pre-season was definitely surreal,” said Salazar, referring to NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers. “This is what I’ve been working for. I have to pinch myself sometimes.”

Salazar, a marketing major from Elizabeth, works at MetLife Stadium as a brand ambassador for both teams at home games. 

“The New York Jets and New York Giants have given me an opportunity to start a journey I’ve always dreamed of, and I’m forever grateful for both,” he said. “The connections and support I’ve received at Kean have already allowed me to fulfill a childhood dream.”

Salazar transferred to Kean in 2022 as a junior, with an associate degree in sports management from Union College and a solid resume in sports. He was a commentator at college women’s soccer games and interned at the National Junior College Athletic Association. He was a sports journalist in high school.

At Kean, he hit the ground running. He launched the Sports Business Club, which brings in guest speakers from the sports world and is planning its first Sports Business Summit. He was also accepted into Kean’s New York Jets Sports Marketing, Branding and Communication class, which is part of Kean’s Official Education Partnership with the NFL team.

Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., who recognized Salazar’s accomplishments during his Opening Day address this Fall, said the Jets class opens doors for students.

“The University is very intentional in developing partnerships with organizations like the Jets that support our students and help them make vital career connections,” Repollet said. “We’re very proud of Sebastian and others who are making the most of their experience at Kean to achieve their dreams.”

Through the class, Salazar met executives, including Alexa Canas, a Jets’ manager and Kean alumna. She suggested Salazar apply with the team, and he was hired as a game-day corporate partnership representative, helping VIP guests.

“Our team interviewed Sebastian and felt he would be a great fit,” Canas said. “I feel Sebastian has what it takes to go far within the sports industry because he is a go-getter and not afraid to reach out to make connections.” 

Salazar also applied with the NY Giants and was thrilled to be hired there, too.

At Kean, faculty and staff said they were not surprised by Salazar’s success.

“Sebastian takes pride in what he can do to help others. He works very hard at networking and building relationships, and he loves taking the initiative,” said Paul Casey, Kean associate director of employee engagement and advisor of the Sports Business Club.

Kean lecturer Suzanne Schwab, coordinator of the department of public relations in the School of Communication, Media and Journalism, said Salazar “knows what he wants and isn’t afraid of hard work.”

“He asks the right questions. He’s humble, but he’s very confident about what he wants and can do,” she said. “That young man is going to be running a sports organization one day. He’ll be successful at whatever he does.”

Salazar is the son of Colombian immigrants. Growing up, he said his family loved sports, but his passion was unique.

“Everybody else in my family watches soccer,” he said. “I fell in love with American football at a young age.”

After graduating in May, he hopes to work full-time in pro sports. His ultimate goal is to lead a sports organization. 

“I’ve always wanted to be in this,” he said. “To be part of one of the 32 teams in the NFL would be an honor.”

For now, Salazar counts himself as a fan of both teams. 

“I cheer on both the Jets and Giants,” he said.