What Our Graduates Say

Ben Polland, PGA

alumni with trophy
FRISCO, TX – MAY 01: Ben Polland poses with the 2024 PGA Professional Championship Trophy after winning the PGA Professional Championship at PGA Frisco on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 in Frisco, Texas. (Photo by Ryan Lochhead/PGA of America)

“I am currently the Director of Golf at Shooting Star in Jackson Hole, WY. In addition to the ordinary duties of a golf professional, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to chase my dream of playing golf professionally.

I was probably a 3 or 4 handicap shooting mid to high 70s until the summer of my senior year when I shot my first under par round in tournament. I was not good enough to play division one golf, but I knew I wanted to keep practicing and also get into the business side of things. That is where I stumbled upon the PGA Golf Management degree. Out of all the schools I visited, Campbell was the only school that focused on three words; business, teach and play. I remember David Orr, the Director of Instruction, saying that I would be a better player and teacher when I graduate. None of the other schools said that! I can tell you now, he was right.

With Campbell’s resources and the direction from its faculty and upperclassmen, I began to learn, practice, and gain experience that is truly unique to this little school in Buies Creek. I played in our student association’s tournament series, went to student led instruction seminars, attended PGMSA student led-bible studies, and even found out that I liked business classes! I became a better student, matured in my faith, and got better at golf!

The network that is continuing to grow because of alum, staff, and current students is what makes Campbell University the best. Most schools, including Campbell, have their own golf courses and facilities, some have new technology like Trackman, but none have a network like ours. If you are a prospective student reading this, my advice would be to seek a program where its goals are aligned with your interests, and be ready to invest in not only the school you see, but the people you meet.”

-Graduated May 2013 with BBA & MBA Degrees
-Director of Golf, Shooting Star of Jackson Hole, WY
-2024 PGA Professional Champion
 

student at graduationSydney Higgins, PGA

“Campbell University’s PGA Golf Management Program has given me the opportunity to build my career in the golf industry. Before PGM, I knew I wanted to work in golf; however, I had no idea as to how I was going to achieve that or what possibilities were open to me. PGM allowed me to learn about every career path within the golf industry while also gaining knowledge in business administration.

One of the most valuable things about the program is that I can apply what I learn in my business classes to my PGM courses. It is a very helpful degree and it fully prepares you for life after college as a PGA Professional. Campbell is a fantastic community where you can go to anyone for anything and you get to know the people you work and study with better than anywhere else. This program has done wonders for my career and my life and I would proudly recommend Campbell University’s PGM Program to anyone passionate about golf.”

-Graduated May 2025 with BBA & MBA Degrees
-Assistant Golf Professional, Chevy Chase Club, MD

 

Parker Spear, PGAalumni headshot

“I graduated from Campbell PGA Golf Management in 2023. The PGM program at Campbell has prepared me for a seamless transition into life after graduating. The connections in the golf industry that Campbell fostered helped me to land internships and ultimately a full time job at some of the most prestigious country clubs in the nation.

I chose Campbell’s PGM program for a few reasons. First, it’s a part of the Business School so it was important for me to be able to get a business degree at the same time. Second, it is truly a tight knit program. Everybody knows each other, supports one another, and wants to see their classmates succeed. Third, the golf facilities and opportunities to play and practice are world class.

My favorite thing about Campbell is the people there. Whether it’s your classmates or professors, they care about how you are doing and that is invaluable.”

-Graduated with BBA & MBA Degrees
-Assistant Golf Professional, Merion Golf Club, PA