October 4, 2019 saw the first graduating class of Full Sail University’s Dan Patrick School of Sportscasting take the stage at Full Sail Live to complete their journey through the 20-month bachelor's program.

The graduation ceremonies featured a commencement speech by Dan Patrick. Afterward, a reception in the sportscasting studio allowed the grads and their families as well as faculty and special guests to reminisce, network, and talk about the future. During the reception, the group was treated to remarks by Program Director Gus Ramsey, Full Sail University President Garry Jones, and Dan Patrick. Dan took a moment to reflect on the pride the students and their parents displayed during the graduation ceremony, while expressing his own pride at what the program was able to accomplish.

“I know that these kids, these students, these graduates got the best education,” he said. “You’re getting that hands-on experience of probably 150 years of total experience by the entire faculty.”

Dan also emphasized the versatility of the program, explaining how the curriculum prepares students for all aspects of the sports industry, from directing and producing to being on and behind the camera.

“You don’t know what you don’t know,” he said. “Hopefully we’ve filled in some of the grey area for you.”

When asked to provide incoming students with advice, valedictorian Adrian Donnelly offered this. “Make sure that you’re comfortable being uncomfortable in this type of industry,” he said. “It’s all preparing you, and it’s all a plan for what they think you can become based off your skills here.”

Check out a special edition of All Access covering the first graduating class: