The cinema and television arts graduate serves as the playoff’s Tom Mickle Communications and Social Media Intern, supporting the creation and execution of a year-round social media strategy that emphasizes its brand and voice.
Rachel Mikolay’s time at Elon and her journey after graduation have not unfolded as she originally expected. But the Elon alumna exemplifies how resilience and passion can lead to remarkable opportunities.
Today, the 2023 Elon University graduate serves as one of five interns for the College Football Playoff’s 2024-25 season. Officially, her title is the Tom Mickle Communications and Social Media Intern. In this role, she designs graphics, develops apparel concepts, strategizes content and assists with promotional materials leading up to the crowning of a national football champion in January. Mikolay also collaborates with the playoff’s ad agency in Atlanta while managing a team of 20 creatives.
It’s a high-stakes, fast-paced environment, but one in which Mikolay thrives. Working in the sport industry is an ideal fit for the former Elon Phoenix student-athlete.
But Mikolay’s journey to promoting and supporting the College Football Playoff was not without hurdles.
An All-State lacrosse player in high school, the New Fairfield, Connecticut, native had high hopes of making an impact on Elon’s women’s lacrosse team. But the COVID-19 pandemic initially interrupted her plans. Determined, she trained extensively to be ready to take the field. That was until one day when she unexpectedly lost the vision in her left eye.
Doctors’ visits followed, but she received no diagnosis and few answers. Unable to secure medical clearance to play, she was eventually forced to retire, ending her playing career before it had truly begun.
“Life is about experiencing trials and tribulations, and adversity can be good,” Mikolay said. “Embracing those challenges is crucial. They can ultimately lead you to a role where you find fulfillment and growth.”
While her playing career ended, a new opportunity emerged. No longer able to play, Mikolay turned her focus to social media, channeling her creativity to support her lacrosse team and its recruitment efforts.
The cinema and television arts major, with a double minor in digital art and photography, quickly found her footing and became an invaluable resource. Her interest in social media creation led to internships with Elon Athletic Communications, the Elon football team, and the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
“My experience at Elon prepared me in so many ways,” Mikolay said. “Running social media for the lacrosse team taught me how to adapt quickly, communicate clearly, and think strategically about content — all of which I use daily in my CFP role.”
By the time Mikolay graduated in May 2023, she had built an impressive communications skill set. But finding the right position post-Elon proved challenging. Undeterred, she launched Mikolay Media, her own social media management and creative services business.
Nevertheless, Mikolay’s passion for sports drew her back and she began exploring post-graduate internships. This summer she formally accepted the Tom Mickle Communications Internship and her social media announcements since have chronicled her work and milestones.
College football fans may recognize Mikolay’s work following the weekly release of the College Football Playoff Rankings. In a recent LinkedIn post, she noted she created nearly 30 graphics for the final rankings.
So, what is Mikolay’s advice for current Elon students? Embrace the unknown.
“I think everything happens for a reason,” she said. “Now, I’m so happy with what I do, the people I work with, and the work I’m producing.”