Seton Hall students got a first-hand look at one of the biggest names in sports media when Stephen A. Smith visited campus yesterday for a full day of live shows and student engagement.
Smith spent most of the day in the University Center (UC), going live on “First Take” in the morning before hosting his radio show later in the day. After the broadcasts, he stayed to speak directly with students during a Q&A session, sharing stories from his career and offering advice to those looking to enter the sports media field.
From the moment he stepped out of his black Cadillac Escalade, Smith brought the same energy that fans see on television. Students packed the building early in the morning to watch the live broadcast, and towards the end of the show, a ton of students appeared on TV behind Smith.
“Seeing Stephen A. Smith live on campus was an awesome experience,” said Dante Younger, a junior biology major. “It was pretty cool to see that same exact energy here in the UC at 10 a.m.”
For Tyler Gordon, a junior communication major, the event was more than just entertainment—it was a chance to learn from someone he hopes to be like one day.
“I thought it was a great experience, especially as someone who wants to go into a field similar to what Mr. Stephen A. Smith does,” Gordon said. “It really motivated me, and being able to learn and take a few things from him is an honor.”
Throughout the day, Smith stayed true to himself. He told stories about his career, his time at ESPN and moments involving major sports figures like LeBron James and Jerry Jones. He also kept things light, delivering his famous “stay off the weed” line, which drew laughter from the entire crowd.
Students said one of the most interesting parts of the experience was seeing how little changes between Smith’s on-air and off-air personality.
“What you see on TV is exactly what you get in person,” Gordon said. “He keeps it real and is all about business.”
During the Q&A session, Smith shifted the focus toward advice, breaking down what it takes to succeed in sports media. Younger said one message stood out more than anything else.
“He talked about how you are judged by employers based on your ability to handle what you have to do, not just what you want to do,” Younger said. “He emphasized that building trust comes from consistency and taking care of your responsibilities first.”
Younger added that the message felt especially important for college students preparing for their future careers, regardless of their major or the career they wish to pursue in the future.
“As a college student, this message offers valuable insight into our future careers and the strong expectations in the workplace,” he said.
For some students, the experience also included being part of the show itself. Chris Heite, a sophomore sports media major, said his favorite moment came when students were included in the broadcast.
“They opened the curtain during First Take, allowing all the students to be on camera behind Stephen A.,” Heite said. “I even got on TV.”
The event also created a buzz across campus. Students viewed it as a chance for SHU to gain recognition while also allowing them to connect with a major name in the industry.
“I am thrilled that he came to campus,” said John Dawson, a sophomore sports media major. “It brings attention to Seton Hall, and it’s an exciting event for our school.”
Being able to hear directly from someone at the top of the field gave many a clearer understanding of what it takes to succeed.
“It’s inspiring to see someone like Stephen A. Smith and hear him shed light on what it takes to get where you want to be,” Gordon said. “Learning from his journey can really motivate students and give them a clearer path forward.”
Smith’s visit to The Hall brought entertainment, education and opportunity for all. He left a strong impression on the students in attendance, and for students interested in sports media, it was a rare chance to see one of the industry’s best up close.
Jaden Highsmith is the assistant editor of The Setonian’s Sports section. He can be reached at jaden.highsmith@student.shu.edu.
