By: Joshlyn Thomas, HRSM Communications

For Eric Cuthbertson, travelling over 7,600 miles to Shanghai, China for an outstanding career opportunity not only meant being immersed into a city full of beautiful culture and tradition but also the chance to showcase his many years of expertise on a global level.

Cuthbertson, a 1992 Sports Administration (SPTA) graduate is now the Vice President of Operations at AEG China, a leading sports and entertainment presenter company. The New York native works with the arena management teams on the day-to-day operation of facilities and implementing aspects of international best practices.

While at the University of South Carolina, Cuthbertson was influenced by outstanding SPTA professors, John Bolan and the late Guy Lewis, the innovator that helped bring the program to USC and served as its first department chair. Credited for Cuthbertson's many years of success in the field, both professors assisted him in the interactions, hands-on learning experiences and connections that the industry offers eager sport management students.

"Once I took John's class, I went home for Thanksgiving break and told my family, I will either work in an arena or run away and join the circus. Dr. Lewis was just a knowledgeable, well-connected individual who set me up for my breakthrough interview," Cuthbertson reflected.

After arriving in China in 2010, Cuthbertson quickly learned a new philosophy on life: If you really allow yourself to let go of your own preconceived ideas and treat every day as an adventure, you will really enjoy your experience abroad so much more.

Cuthbertson has certainly been thriving in this theory. Most recently, he was awarded the Chairman's Medallion, an award created for exceptional employees given by AEG China. He was chosen as one of the 10 recipients out of 27,000 for his exemplary excellence in performance, interpersonal communications, and the ability to work within multiple divisions, while epitomizing the highest character, exceptional integrity, and professionalism.

The 2004 College of HRSM Outstanding Alumni Award recipient continues to stay true to his Gamecock roots as Cuthbertson paints the city of Shanghai garnet and black with his strong work ethic and leadership skills.