ITHACA, N.Y. --
Damon Barnes arrived at Cornell with something to prove. Not to anyone else, but to himself.
In his first year, he did just that, by winning the Freshman Scholar Athlete Award and earning multiple Dean's List certificates. The recognition meant more than just another line on a resume.
"These mean a lot to me because I proved to myself that my method to balance school and football works and that I could thrive academically and athletically as a freshman at one of the most prestigious universities in the world," Barnes said.
That early success set the foundation for his communication major, a path chosen with clear career aspirations in mind.
"I chose communication as my major because I was and still am very interested in working as a journalist for ESPN or in the front office of a sports team," he explained.
Barnes hasn't waited until graduation to explore those interests. He's already gained valuable experience, interning with the Chicago Sky of the WNBA in sponsorship and marketing, and working on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.
"Both of these experiences opened my eyes to many different things," Barnes said. "From the different city experiences to the behind-the-scenes of a professional basketball team and meetings about issues in our country, I am grateful to have had those experiences."
The connection between his studies and football operates as a two-way street. His communication coursework has reinforced skills essential to both academic and athletic success.
"A lot of things like retaining information, time management, study habits, and an underrated aspect is developing relationships with other students in study groups or just in the class," Barnes said.
But football has given back just as much. The discipline and mental strength developed on the field carry directly into the classroom, especially on challenging days.
"Football has instilled in me the discipline and mental strength and focus I need to do things even when certain days aren't going my way," he said. "Being a student-athlete definitely teaches you more and more the longer you're able to do it and reflect on how far you've come."
Barnes keeps his daily schedule straightforward and efficient. He uses small breaks between classes to get ahead and stay ahead of all due dates on assignments. After classes, he either watches film, grabs food, or combines both by bringing food back while studying, watching film, and focusing on recovery.
While his internships have given him glimpses into a world outside of football, Barnes doesn't plan to hang up his helmet at the end of his collegiate career.
"I plan to pursue a career in professional football," he said. "It has always been a dream of mine that I vowed myself to chase no matter the circumstances."
In five years, he sees himself with a successful professional football career while giving back and causing positive change in various communities. Barnes has also thought about documenting his journey in a unique way.
"Sharing my story has been something I have grown to be proud of and I have thought many times about writing a book or making a documentary," he said.
His commitment to community extends to his time at Cornell, where he recently became a member of Men of Color in Athletics, an organization that builds community and creates networking opportunities for student-athletes of color.
From proving himself as a freshman to planning his professional future, Barnes has approached his Cornell experience with intention and purpose. Whether he ends up a journalist for the World-Wide Leader in Sports, behind the scenes in a front office, or continuing his football career, one thing is certain: he's already proven he can thrive under pressure at one of the country's most prestigious universities.
