Road to Kickoff goes beyond the field to bring you behind-the-scenes stories from the student interns and workers powering FIU football . From marketing and equipment to operations and broadcast, these are the voices that rarely get the spotlight—but play a major role in making game day happen. Listen as we dive into their experiences, hustle, and impact. Let’s take you inside the cage—where the season truly begins.
Ep. 1 From Intern to Impact: Her Journey in FIU Football
We sat down with Isabella Ferreiro, who started as an intern and worked her way up to marketing coordinator for FIU Athletics. We look into the behind-the-scenes experiences that molded her journey. She talks about her motivation, what football means to her, and how she adapted to a fast-paced field. We also discuss what it’s like to be a woman in the industry and how she’s overcoming obstacles. Passion, purpose, and proving to yourself that you belong are the topics of this episode.
Novitsky's creative journey started in 2018 when he bought a camera and started doing photography as a new hobby. This eventually led him to return to school, where he received an associate degree in graphic design from Miami Dade College in 2023.
Novitsky has experience in photography, videography, graphic design, UX design, and management roles. His skill set allows him to be a versatile and adaptable creative who can understand the bigger picture and deliver a high-quality product.
Novitsky will graduate from the Lee Caplin School of Journalism & Media with a bachelor’s degree in digital communication and media in Spring 2026. He then hopes to earn a master's degree in marketing.
Amanda Grant is a junior at Florida International University who wants to make an impact in media production.
Grant has experience in video editing, producing, and creative directing. She hopes to lead a dynamic creative team that uses storytelling to connect and inspire audiences.
Grant will graduate from the Lee Caplin School of Journalism & Media with a bachelor’s degree in digital communication and media in Summer 2026.
Genesha Rhymer is a passionate storyteller at Florida International University who knows how to bring the energy on camera and behind the scenes. Rhymer works with FIU Athletics as both a marketing assistant and in-game host. She helps run game day promotions, hype up the crowd, and create unforgettable fan experiences. She is also the creator and host of Game Time with Nesh, a sports lifestyle series, where she interviews football players and gives viewers a real look at the people behind the helmets.
Her goal is to work for a major sports network like ESPN, telling real stories, repping women in sports, being the best sideline reporter, and most importantly becoming an icon. Rhymer will graduate from the Lee Caplin School of Journalism & Media with a bachelor's degree in digital broadcasting with a concentration in sports journalism in Spring 2027.
