Emily Gates
Emily Gates is a freshman at Syracuse University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Esports Communication and Management with a focus on Business and Management. Passionate about the intersection of competition, technology, and community, Emily has quickly immersed herself in the university’s esports ecosystem. She brings enthusiasm and dedication to both her academic and extracurricular endeavors, aiming to develop strong skills in communication, collaboration, management, and leadership.
At Syracuse University Esports, Emily serves as the Rocket League Team Manager, overseeing day-to-day team operations, coordinating with players and staff, and scheduling scrimmages and matches. She also contributes to the program’s media and communications efforts, crafting content that highlights the achievements and growth of the esports community on campus. Through these experiences, Emily has gained firsthand expertise in event coordination, team management, and professional communication within a fast-paced and evolving industry.
In addition to her work on campus, Emily has built a robust portfolio as a sports writer, contributing to outlets such as Prime Time Sports Talk and Third Down Thursday. She has developed weekly series, provided in-depth NFL coverage, and honed her ability to analyze and communicate complex sports narratives effectively. Emily is committed to leveraging her skills and experiences to pursue a future career in esports management and event coordination, helping others create meaningful and engaging experiences in the gaming industry.
What do you attribute your success to?
Since stepping onto the Syracuse University campus as a freshman majoring in esports, I have been fully immersed in a dynamic environment that combines competition, technology, and community in ways I never anticipated. My involvement with the university’s esports program, which began last September, has been transformative ranging from assisting with weekend events to hosting my own Madden tournament in December. Through these experiences, I have developed a strong understanding of teamwork, organization, and leadership in a fast-paced industry. Additionally, esports-related coursework, including an introductory class that I found particularly engaging, has further deepened my knowledge of the industry and event management.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the best pieces of career advice I’ve received has come through mentorship, particularly from Joey Gawrysiak, who has guided me through the complexities of event management. His advice and support have been invaluable in helping me grow both professionally and personally, shaping my career aspirations along the way. I hope to build on these experiences after graduation by pursuing a career in event management, creating meaningful and memorable experiences for others in the esports industry.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Entering this industry can feel intimidating at first, but it is absolutely worth it. I would encourage young women to actively seek out mentorships and cultivate genuine, supportive relationships. Most importantly, have faith in yourself and trust in your abilities—believing in yourself is key to thriving and making an impact in this field.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is balancing school, work, and personal life as a new professional. While it can be demanding, it has also been incredibly rewarding—each event I manage and tournament I help run strengthens my commitment to this career path and encourages continuous growth. These experiences have allowed me to cultivate a strong work ethic, refine my communication skills, and learn to navigate the professional world with confidence.