SOPHIA PESTANA

One month after graduating from the University of Florida, Sophia moved to Connecticut to work at ESPN's headquarters. She covered a variety of studio shows on ABC, ESPN, and ESPN2. Her work ethic and leadership skills earned her a spot as Content Associate Captain and a peer mentor to young professionals within the
ESPN Next program. 
 
Sophia covered many high-profile events during her short time at the company. She worked on the 2019 and 2020 CFP National Championship and semi-final games, the 2020 WNBA Finals halftime shows, the 2021 WNBA Draft Lottery Reveal, the 2021 Women's NCAA Selection Show, and the 2021 Women's NCAA Tournament. Her last assignment was to serve as a content creator for the UEFA EURO 2020 Tournament. Sophia enjoyed telling the stories of athletes to millions across the country. 

In addition to her daily responsibilities, Sophia pitched multiple initiatives to the company. Within her first month, Sophia met with ESPN Next Leadership to pitch a social media initiative highlighting leaders in the company who started as production assistants. Sophia conducted the interviews including one with Senior Vice President, Tina Thorton. Final pieces of "Success Story" are on ESPN Next social media platforms.