By LARRY VAUGHT
Not only is Drake Jackson perhaps the nation’s best center — Pro Football Focus bestowed that preseason honor on him — but he already has his degree in agriculture economics and is working on a master’s degree in kinesiology and health promotion.
This summer he’s doing an internship with UK executive associate athletics director Marc Hill to see a different side of athletics.
“I am really enjoying seeing that side of the athletics operation,” Jackson said. “I am learning how all the communications works, learning how people handle their own responsibilities.
“It’s been really interesting in a kind of corporate way sitting at a desk having meetings, dealing with people that love sports and love this university. It’s not Zombieland. It’s not a meeting at the water cooler where you are just having a conversation. There’s a lot to learn and know.”
Jackson says he “respects” the way administrators try to create the best possible experience for student-athletes and says the COVID-19 stress and adjustments could make his experience even more meaningful.
“Do you like watching football when the score is 50-0. It’s when things get tough and you have to be a little more creative, get put under stress … it’s not ideal but it does magnify just how these people operateand how important they are to UK athletics,” Jackson said.
