Finding Her Focus: Sofia Santana ’26
Lead image: Sofia Santana ’26 with her Hamilton softball teammates. Photo: Josh McKee
Fall 2022
Jumped right in with economics, computer science, and Hispanic studies classes.
“I chose econ and computer science because I wanted to get a good job after graduation. But after taking the intro courses, I knew this wasn’t for me. I was trying so hard and putting in so much effort, but nothing seemed to be clicking. … My Spanish classes were great. My grandma is Cuban and my dad is first-gen. My goal was to become fluent and study abroad in a Spanish-speaking country.”
Spring 2023
Elected a photography class — and found her passion.
“I took a photography class in high school, but it wasn’t until I came back to it that I realized how much I love photography — it brings me joy and challenges me. At first I was super nervous to tell my parents [this would be my focus], but I decided if I’m doing this, I’m going to go all in.”
Summer 2023
Creative intern with the Tennessee Titans of the NFL. Completed rotations in photography, social media, project management, and video. Assisted the team with Media Day and the release of their new throwback uniforms.
Fall 2023
Took Advanced Photography with Professor of Art Rob Knight where students designed and printed working 3D cameras in Hamilton’s Makerspace.
Fall 2023 — present
Photography intern in Hamilton’s Sports Information Office shooting football, soccer, field hockey, basketball, and ice hockey action.
Summer 2024
Marketing intern with the Florida Panthers of the NHL. Assisted the official photographer on ice during the Stanley Cup finals, shot photos during the victory parade, and participated in brand ideation meetings.
“I led a 35mm film project during the finals, capturing the energy and emotions as the team made history with its first Stanley Cup win. Shooting on film just felt right; it has this nostalgic, timeless vibe that fits with such a huge moment. I wanted to tell the story of what it felt like to be there — the excitement, the nerves, the pure joy in the crowd — through something that felt as authentic and lasting as the experience itself. It pushed me to think about storytelling in a deeper, more creative way beyond just documenting the action.”
Spring 2025
Named Hamilton Softball's representative to the NESCAC All-Sportsmanship Team, comprised of student-athletes who show exceptional respect for themselves, teammates, coaches, opponents, and spectators.
Summer 2025
Studied in Spain at LCI Barcelona. Took three courses: Entrepreneurship and Design Thinking, Graphic Design, and Fashion Photography, where she worked behind the scenes at a fashion show.
What’s Now & Next
Santana, an outfielder, is captain of the Continentals softball team and busy completing two theses for her concentrations in art and Hispanic studies. After graduation, she hopes to work for a professional sports organization in social media or photography.
“My fine arts perspective allows me to bring a more emotional and abstract way of approaching the world that I don’t always see reflected in sports where everything can feel very predictable and surface level. That’s something I hope to bring to my work in the sports world.”
