by Dave Nastalski

There may be no better way to wrap up the busy month of February than by recognizing one of our stellar students for his accomplishments, contributions, and initiatives.  Hailing from nearly fifteen hundred miles away, (San Juan, Puerto Rico) freshman Miguel Alvarez captures the title of February’s Student of the Month.

 

Miguel’s decision to attend North Carolina State was heavily influenced by the team of individuals we’ve all come to accept as family, no less than our own.  “It was about the treatment I received from N.C. State people when I visited; especially Mama Sooz,” he said.  “[She] made me 100 percent sure of my decision.”

 

Since arriving, Alvarez has taken an active and deliberate role in creating opportunities for himself and others, while promoting the PGA Golf Management Program at North Carolina State.  By volunteering for the First Tee, the Wolfpack Intercollegiate Men’s Tournament, and the “Adopt-A-Hole” program, Alvarez has demonstrated a passion for helping others.  He attended the PGA Merchandise Show in January and quickly gained appreciation for how widespread the golf business is becoming.  “All of these activities have been a lot of fun, but more importantly, they have expanded my knowledge in different areas of the golf industry,” he said. 

Alvarez plans to initiate a program that coaches individuals on the mental aspects of the game.  He feels this will improve the playing abilities of those who participate, in addition to breeding competitive golfers.  Efforts such as these continue to push NC State’s program ahead in the world of PGM. 

 

“I feel glad to be the student of the month because I have put lots of effort towards our PGM program, and being honored with this title really shows that my hard work is paying off,” he said.  Alvarez believes the student of the month serves as a role model for the rest of the student body.  “People should try to work hard and get involved in the program, because in the end, the experience is for your own benefit.” 

 

Alvarez recently accepted a job for his first internship at the prestigious Medinah Country Club just outside of Chicago, Illinois.  He’s extremely excited to see just what a large scale high-end private facility is all about. 

 

His most noted career goal is to grow and develop the game of golf back home in Puerto Rico.   He hopes to work especially with children, “because [golf] offers wonderful values that young people can learn and use to become a positive social influence later on as adults.”  He aspires to become the General Manager at his home course in Puerto Rico, Palmas Athletic Club. 

 

Alvarez believes playing the game should not be shoved aside.  He qualified for this year’s PGM Ryder Cup and is looking forward to representing the lower classmen in their hunt for victory on the 17^th and 18^th. 

“If I had to choose one quality I feel a golf professional should demonstrate it would be high motivation,” he said.  The golf business remains in high demand for individuals willing to go above and beyond in their daily duties and obligations.  As he explained, “ it’s a job that requires you to be at your best every single day to provide consistent, excellent service.”  It appears this young individual is well on his way.