I evaluate pro NFL players and give recommendations to the top brass on the team. I also advance scout upcoming opponents and prepare in-depth analysis of their strengths and weaknesses for the coaching team.

EDUCATION | BA in Philosophy, UCSB (Minor in Sports Management). MS in Sports Administration from St. Thomas University.

HOW TO GET STARTED | I strongly advise an education in Sports Management or Sports Administration. The top Schools are St. Thomas, University of Massachusetts, and Ohio University. I also think the best in to this field is through internships. Pretty much all pro teams offer internships so go with your favorite, or a local NFL team, and ask about their internship programs or check their website. Like all popular internship opportunities, it's not always easy to get one at the NFL, but if you have a good academic record and have volunteer or community work in sports, then you'll stand a good chance.

MUST HAVE TRAITS | You've got to love to travel, be hard working, decisive and confident, and not afraid to present your opinion.

how I got started | After grad school I did a 9 month internship in the Pro Scout Department at the Miami Dolphins. I worked my butt off, and my love for the sport was really obvious from day one. After my internship I applied for a position and was hired full time. Fortunately for me, there wasn't much struggle involved. I had a great education and proved my worth during my internship.

why this job?| My first love was football, but I never had the body type to play with the pros. I know all guys say they love football, but for me it was more than just watching games on TV, I had a serious drive. I wanted to be a pro scout because it was the best way for me to be a part of something I love so much.

why I love this job!| I love being a part of a pro football franchise, I may not be a player, but I've still realized my dream. I love that I get paid to watch football games, and I love the people I work with and for, they're all as passionate and serious about football as I am.

my typical day| In season, my typical day is spent breaking down opponents, evaluating players from film clips, and writing reports for the coaching staff. I also travel to watch live games for the same purposes of evaluation. Off-season, I evaluate players from other teams whose contracts are expiring to see if there are any recommendations to make to management. It's my job to scope out players that we may want to make an offer to join the Miami Dolphins if they become available.

what they are | In this job, the hours can be long and the work can be tough. But I think the most challenging thing about being a pro scout is that you really take the performance of your team personally, and it can be very emotional when your team isn't doing well. If you want a career where you leave your work at home, this one isn't for you.

all about growth | If you're good and you prove you know how to scout top talent, then there's going to be solid work and opportunities for you. In this business word travels fast, good or bad, and you're career will reflect the reputation you make for yourself. Although the salary range starts low, pro scouts can earn big depending on their record. There's also some lateral moves you can make into coaching, sports writing, and television commentating.

my website| http://www.miamidolphins.com/content/nate-sullivan