An opportunity to play soccer brought Jacob Battista, ’24, from Australia to the United States and eventually Purdue University Northwest (PNW) where he will earn a bachelor of science degree in Marketing and a minor in Sales from the College of Business.
Fresh out of high school, the Melbourne, Australia, native began work in the real estate business but the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced those plans to change. That’s when the opportunity to play collegiate soccer in the U.S. presented itself. Although Battista wanted to concentrate his studies within the sales field, his mother suggested marketing. “I knew I wanted to stay in the sales area, but once I started taking marketing classes I really fell in love with it, especially marketing research,” says Battista.
As a member of the PNW Pride men’s soccer team, Battista served as a team captain. He was part of the historic 2023 squad that won the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) championship, marking the first NCAA DII team championship in PNW’s history.
While at PNW, Battista was a member of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), served as secretary of the Marketing Club and was a campus ambassador.
Battista’s lifelong dream has been to play professional soccer, something he plans to pursue after graduation. Combining his love of sports and marketing, he eventually would like to find a position in the field of sports marketing.
What did you like most about PNW?
“The friendships I’ve made here with both international and local students. They recently surprised me with a birthday celebration. As an international student, being away from family on occasions like this can be tough. That gesture shows just how incredible the people here are and is something I’ll never forget.
Also, the professors at PNW are knowledgeable and passionate about what they teach – they genuinely care about their students. The coaches and staff are also incredible. They push us to improve while creating an environment where we feel uplifted even during tough times.”
How do you think your involvement in campus organizations and activities helped define your success at PNW?
“It’s all about communication, passion and hard work. Those are the skills that you learn in a student organization or even from being captain of the men’s soccer team. I was glad I found my place both athletically within the SAAC Committee and academically with the Marketing Club and was able to combine both as a campus ambassador.
It’s extremely important to build a network of people that you trust and who trust you. Having the initiative to step up and do something beyond your role is the best way to move forward. And, being a leader is about more than having a title.”
Did you have a pivotal experience while attending PNW?
“I’ve had many pivotal experiences. Moving from Australia to the Midwest was a culture shock – the snowy winters, discovering Cracker Barrel and trying mac and cheese for the first time!
But one of the most pivotal experiences for me was stepping into a leadership role on my team. I’ve always been a solid player who works hard, is consistent and supports my team, but being given the captain’s armband was a new position for me.
It taught me what comes with leadership, like keeping a cool and level head when things aren’t going well, encouraging everyone to keep going and not to dwell on mistakes. Becoming a captain was not something I sought out, but it was an opportunity for growth and a chance to develop leadership skills that I’ll carry with me in life.”
What words of advice would you share with prospective students looking to attend PNW?
“Get involved and take advantage of everything PNW has to offer. There are so many things for students to do, it would be a crime if you didn’t at least participate in a couple of activities. Embrace the experience and be your genuine self. PNW is all about exploring who you are and all your options. There is a place for everyone here.”
Was there anyone at PNW who inspired or encouraged you along the way?
Luke Dunn
Head Coach, Men’s Soccer
“It’s a big life change to go from one country to another and Coach Dunn helped me navigate that change. He’s not just preparing great soccer players but great men as well. He’s setting us up for success both academically and athletically.”
Ryan Hayes
Director of International Admissions and Immigration Services
“Ryan Hayes was the one who planted the idea that coming to America and building a life here was possible. He showed me that I could belong, thrive and be appreciated no matter where I am.”
Claudia Mich
Associate Dean of Internal Operations, College of Business
“Professor Mich pushed me to explore opportunities, like a minor in Sales. She has been a huge support during my time at PNW.”
