Thomas Berman ‘12MBA

“Some people want it to happen, some wish it to happen, and others make it happen!” This quote, from Hall of Fame basketball player Michael Jordan, is a favorite of Thomas Berman ’12MBA.

Berman’s belief in doing rather than dreaming was the impetus behind the launch of his new startup company, DraftingSleepers.com: The Social Network for Fantasy Sports. “I’ve been an avid sports fan since I was very young,” he says, “and now I’ve realized a long-held dream.” Berman wanted to unite the fantasy sports community and give them a home to discuss relevant players specifically important to their own teams and interests. “My experience at St. John’s both inside and outside the classroom pushed me toward making this goal a reality!”

As a graduate student, Berman became a true “Johnny” by creating a special bond with the University. While earning his MBA in Marketing Management, he spent two years working for the Athletics Department as their marketing graduate assistant. One of his achievements was creating the thriving “St. John’s Women’s Basketball Field Trip Day,” which encourages local female grade-school students to further their education while living a healthy lifestyle.

Berman, who spends much of his free time attending to his startup, gives credit to The Peter J. Tobin College of Business for preparing him for success in any field. “My educational experience at St. John’s was essential to fulfilling my goal that began as a passionate dream,” he said.