An Olympic and European gold medallist has been talking to us about how much she is looking forward to studying at the Global Institute of Sport this September.

Shona McCallin MBE will begin her postgraduate studies in MSc International Sport Management at GIS as part of our September 2024 intake.

The former England and Team GB field hockey player won an Olympic gold medal in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, as well as a European Championships gold medal in 2015.

Retiring from her playing career in 2023, Shona spoke to us about the importance of education for athletes and sports professionals.

“It’s so important,” she said. “Hockey isn’t a career where you can earn financial amounts that set you up for life.

“My parents, coaches and mentors have all instilled how important it is to have an education and develop skills away from your sport.

“I’ve always had other projects running alongside my career. Now I’ve retired I know I want to work in sport and continue my learning.”

Shona went on to say why she chose the Global Institute of Sport to guide her on the right path to her new career within the sports industry.

“I chose GIS for the opportunity to learn in a different way to traditional university.

“Having spoken to alumni who have done the course, the feedback was amazing. The network opportunity is also incredible.

“I am looking forward to learning with other like-minded individuals and getting first-hand experience and practical knowledge within the field.”

GIS’ MSc International Sport Management course was recently named in the top sports-related postgraduate programmes in the world. Click here to read more about it.

Shona has also been granted one of our Elite Athlete Scholarships during her time at GIS, which helps former sports professionals gain an education to remain within the sports industry.

“It was great to receive the email confirming the scholarship,” Shona said. “I’m really looking forward to meeting the other scholars.”

GIS welcomed a record number of scholars from across the globe for 2023-24. Find out more about them by clicking here.

You can also find out if you’re eligible for one of our scholarships by clicking here.

Furthermore, kick off your career in the sports industry by viewing a GIS prospectus here.