International ASU Law grad looks forward to landing a dream job in sports analytics

Editor's note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2020 graduates.

Guilherme “Gui” Leite was always fascinated by mathematics and statistics, so finding a way to combine that with his biggest passion — sports — was a deciding moment in his pursuit of a career in sports business management.

“I knew my next step would be to join a program where I could expand on those skills and learn more about the business of sports,” said Leite, an Arizona State University undergrad who went on to apply to and will graduate this fall from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law with a Master of Sports Law and Business (MSLB) degree.

As an international student from Brazil, Leite said he was most surprised by the “incredible presence of international students attending ASU,” and the opportunity it presented to be able to meet people from different parts of the world and make many connections that way.

Leite plans to continue to grow his experience through internships and projects after graduation. “I want to have enough knowledge, experience and a strong resume, so eventually I land my dream job, which would be working on business analytics for any of my favorite sports teams,” he said.

Question: Why did you choose ASU?

Answer: I did my undergraduate studies in business management at ASU, and I truly loved the experience. I have also always planned on attending some form of graduate school. After seeing all the Sports Law and Business program has to offer, including facilities and professors, it was an easy choice to make to attend ASU Law.

Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?

A: My sports analytics Professor Daniel McIntosh taught me many important lessons. One of the ones that stood out the most to me was the importance to not simply practice things, but of "perfect practice." People say practice makes perfect, but in reality, if you practice something the wrong way, you will do it the wrong way. The more accurate statement is that "perfect practice makes perfect."

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

A: Enjoy your time in school and don't be so hard on yourself stressing too much about the future. Although most of us don’t realize this, we are still young and have time to make mistakes and find our true calling. Do not stress but make the most of your time in school, day-by-day setting yourself up for success.

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

A: I don't think $40 million would be enough to end world hunger, so I would probably use that money to tackle and promote the importance of mental health. I think this is a very important issue in our generation and one that really came to the spotlight during the pandemic. I think young people nowadays face a lot of pressure and it is important to take care of and watch over what goes on in your head.

Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?

A: My favorite spot on campus has always been the Sun Devil Fitness Complex. Although students haven't been able to go there lately due to COVID-19, the SDFC is an amazing spot to relax and work on your physical and mental fitness.