Mark Radigan is a communications major at the University of Rhode Island, focusing on sports media. Throughout his time at URI, he has gained invaluable hands-on experience, covering major sporting events and working with renowned organizations like Barstool Rhode Island. Passionate about storytelling, Mark aims to continue pursuing a career in journalism, sharing compelling stories from the world of sports and beyond.
What made you choose to come to URI?
I started looking at schools with strong communication and sports media programs when I realized law school wasn’t my calling. My advisor in high school suggested URI for that reason. URI was the first school to accept me. The campus was beautiful. I enjoyed that it was by the beach, and the campus was lovely. The fact that it had sports media, in particular, was a big thing. The fact that URI not only has communication but also sports media led to my final college decision, like having sports media; I was like, okay, that adds something to it because I wanted to do sports in particular.
What has been one of your favorite memories from URI
During my time at URI, I’ve had some fantastic experiences in sports media. As a freshman, I covered every home men’s basketball game for the student-run Anchor Sports Network and even went to the Atlantic 10 tournament in Washington, DC, where I was one of the only student journalists. That was when Coach David Cox was fired, and I had the chance to break the news and connect with players. It led to more opportunities, including working with Barstool Rhode Island.
I called a game at the Atlantic 10 tournament with Nathan Robelard the following year. At just 19, I was calling a game live on FM radio in an NBA arena, which was one of the most incredible moments of my career.
Beyond URI, I’ve also had incredible opportunities with Hudson River Blue, a New York-based soccer publication. I’ve covered MLS games at iconic venues like Yankee Stadium, Citi Field, and Red Bull Arena, even interviewing players in their locker rooms. I’ve also had the chance to cover games featuring Lionel Messi and significant teams like Manchester City and AC Milan. These opportunities, which stemmed from my work at URI, have been life-changing, and it’s hard to pick just one favorite moment with so many incredible experiences.
What is the best thing you’ve learned while being at URI?
Most of my learning has come from hands-on experiences, not the classroom. I’ve learned much from being in press rows at the Ryan Center, Mead Stadium, and major venues like Yankee Stadium and Citi Field, interacting with professionals, and sitting in press conferences. I’ve also learned how to manage deadlines, ask the right questions, and build relationships with athletes while maintaining professionalism.
Through all the extracurricular opportunities at the university, I’ve gained confidence, improved my journalistic skills, and learned how to navigate the balance between professional and personal relationships. Whether as a writer, social media manager, photographer, broadcaster, or podcaster, these experiences have shaped my understanding of journalism. Moving forward, it’s about honing those skills and continuing to grow in the field.
What are your post graduate plans?
I’m still figuring out exactly what I want to do, as journalism is a highly competitive field with limited opportunities. My goal is to be a writer and storyteller, as I genuinely believe I need to share the stories of people—whether athletes, coaches, or anyone else. While I’m not sure where this will lead, I’ve applied for various internships and jobs, including with Barstool and Excel Sports Management. I’m open to exploring different fields, as my time at URI has taught me to broaden my horizons and try new things.