LeBron Smith’s game-changing experiences at PLU and beyond

Through support from PLU and a lot of hard work, LeBron was invited to participate in the NCAA Division III Student Immersion Program. “Attending the program allowed me to grow confidence in myself as a young professional,” says LeBron, reflecting on his experience. The opportunity pushed him to step outside his comfort zone, connect with industry leaders, and sparked an even deeper interest in sports administration.

LeBron, a student-athlete with a business administration major and a communication minor, made it a priority to have out-of-classroom experiences during his time at PLU. Through his internship with Degrees of Change, the NCAA immersion program, and hands-on marketing projects, LeBron focused on building the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the sports industry.

In the Q&A ahead, LeBron shares the moments, mentors, and mindset that helped shape his journey at PLU and where he’s headed next.

What was the NCAA Division III Student Immersion Program all about?

The program is designed to give minority students a closer look at careers in college athletics, especially in administration and coaching. It takes place during the NCAA Convention, where participants get to network with professionals, attend panels, and learn more about how college sports are run behind the scenes.

For me, it was an eye-opening experience. I got to connect with leaders in the industry, gain insight into different career paths in athletics, and see firsthand how decisions at the NCAA level impact student-athletes. It really reinforced my interest in sports administration and gave me a better understanding of what it takes to build a career in this field.

What energizes you about sports in general?

I love that sports are a way to bring people together and push you to grow — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally, too. Whether I’m competing, supporting teammates, or just being around that energy, there’s this unspoken connection and drive that makes it all meaningful. 

Sports have taught me more than just how to win. They’ve taught me discipline, how to bounce back from setbacks, and how to lead when it counts. I’ve made some of my closest relationships through sports, and the lessons I’ve learned on the track carry into every part of my life. It’s where I’ve built confidence, found community, and learned who I am. 

What's something you appreciate about the business administration and communication programs at PLU?

One thing I like is how much these programs prioritize hands-on experience. It’s not just theory. We actually get to work on market research, branding, and campaign development. The professors are also super supportive and bring a lot of industry knowledge, which makes everything feel more relevant.

It sounds like you really focused on getting real-world experience. Throughout all of your time at PLU, what’s the thing that you’re most proud of?

I’m proud of myself for not giving up. Over the years, I’ve faced a lot of challenges and could have given up multiple times but I overcame them and challenged myself each day.

Graduating is a huge accomplishment, especially with everything you took on while you were here. Now that you’ve spent four years at PLU, how would you describe PLU's culture?

PLU is a strong, tight-knit community. For the most part, everyone knows everyone, which creates a welcoming and supportive environment. Because of this, both students and faculty are eager and willing to help each other out, whether that’s through academic support, mentorship, or just being there for one another. 

There’s a sense of connection that makes PLU feel more personal compared to larger universities. It’s a place where you’re encouraged to grow, both academically and personally, while being surrounded by people who want to see you succeed.

I’m glad that you were able to find a community here! Outside of enjoying your time with the people who’ve been important to you, what have you liked to do for fun?

If I’m not doing school-related things, I like to watch anime and play video games. I also enjoy trying new foods and restaurants.

What does receiving scholarships mean to you?

During my sophomore year, I received another scholarship that made me not have to worry about paying for tuition. The Leadership 1000 scholarship has lifted some of the financial burden from my shoulders. I’m not sure if I’d be where I am now without it.

Did you have a mentor during your time at PLU?

I had the pleasure of really connecting with my Resident Assistant from freshman year, Brian Sung. Over the past four years, he has been an incredible mentor, always offering guidance and support. As a PLU alum, he’s helped me navigate both academics and personal growth, and I’m really grateful for the impact he’s had on my experience here. His mentorship is just one example of how strong the PLU community is — people genuinely care and continue to support each other even after graduation.

What are your plans for when you graduate?

After graduation, I plan to take a year off from school before pursuing my master’s. The goal is to work in sports administration and marketing.