We caught up with Alumnus Tucker Carlson in 2015 who, at the time, was an Assistant Coach with the Wrestling program at the Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. Tucker graduated with a degree in Communication Studies in 2012.
Why did you choose to pursue a degree in Communication Studies?
I enjoy public speaking. As excel- lence in public speaking is a skill required in a multitude of professions, I sought a degree that would cultivate my inherent interest in the subject while challenging me with diverse audiences, environments, and situations.
How has your degree in Communication Studies helped you to better advocate, negotiate, and relate in your career as a collegiate wrestling coach?
As a collegiate wrestling coach, my education in communication studies has been invaluable. The following lists a few of the many ways my degree has trained me to succeed:
1. Recruiting - I continually have to strike up new relationships with high school kids and their families. A lot of interpersonal and small group communication comes into play as I build trust with relative strangers. After relationships have been built with high school wrestlers, coaches, and families, persuasion comes into play as I try to sell them on the benefits of getting an education at The Citadel.
2. Running practice - I have to find ways to motivate the team on a daily basis with both my verbal and nonverbal cues.
3. Resolving conflict - Whether it be issues of poor performance, floundering grades, or lack of discipline, impassioned conflict frequently arises in a Division I wrestling program. The quality of communication is paramount in determining whether issues get resolved in a productive manner. As a leader, I believe in engaging everybody— from athletes to administration—in the communication process. Outstanding communication engenders outstanding trust—a key for any successful coach-athlete relationship.
4. Banquets/awards ceremonies - As a representative of Citadel Wrestling, I frequently have to make speeches when our program/ wrestlers are recognized.
What is your favorite memory of your time as a Communication Studies major at UNL?
There are many presentations required as a Communication Studies major, and it was always fun to collaborate with my peers.
How can alumni help support the department and current students?
Any feedback from alumni about what they are doing with their degree is a significant help to students who may be undecided on their futures. People love to ask, “What are you going to do with your degree?”
What advice do you have for our current students?
Establish relationships with faculty early! At some point, you will need their help in advancing your career interests, and they are always willing to help if they know who you are!