REC Employee Spotlight - Jyothinkrishna Jyothsna Bavin

In the energetic world of UB Recreation, one name resonates brightly among staff and patrons alike: Jyothinkrishna Jyothsna Bavin, affectionately known as "Prince." Since hopping on board in summer 2021, Prince has been a game-changer, blending dedication with innovation to elevate both student engagement and operational excellence.

Prince's adventure into UB Recreation kicked off totally by chance at the Bulls Team Shop. He bumped into a fellow student employee, and their chat changed everything. "I had a great conversation with Lizzie, who mentioned a job opening," Prince recalls. Little did he know, this initial interaction would lead to a transformative experience spanning various roles within Recreation.

Over time, Prince's role expanded significantly under the mentorship of Jenny Kern, Assistant Director for Marketing, Media, Retail, and Programs. Recognizing his background in social media, Jenny and Prince collaborated to enhance UB Recreation's online presence. From conducting photoshoots to curating content, Prince played a pivotal role in building a robust social media platform that engages the university community.

Promotions soon followed, with Prince assuming responsibilities as Inventory Manager, Assistant Supervisor, and Student Staff Manager. His current role involves overseeing scheduling, staff management, and spearheading special projects—all while ensuring seamless customer experiences and operational efficiency.

Reflecting on his tenure, Prince highlights the profound impact UB Recreation has had on his development. "It's equipped me with essential skills in time management, organization, and troubleshooting," he notes. Beyond technical skills, Prince credits the department for fostering a sense of community during his college journey, particularly as an international student far from home. "Recreation has become my family away from home," he adds warmly.

Outside his professional endeavors, Prince finds solace and strength in powerlifting, a hobby he describes as a "slow burn" that fuels resilience and gratitude. This passion underscores his commitment to personal growth and well-being—a testament to his holistic approach to life and work.

As Prince continues to excel within UB Recreation, his aspirations extend towards healthcare, where he plans to apply his honed people skills and commitment to patient care. His experiences have shaped a profound belief in the power of empathy and effective communication—a foundation he values deeply.

For students considering involvement with UB Recreation, Prince offers learned advice: "Take full advantage of all resources available. The opportunities for growth are immense, both personally and professionally." His journey exemplifies the transformative impact of seizing opportunities and embracing community—a lesson he embodies every day at UB.

In essence, Jyothinkrishna Jyothsna Bavin, or "Prince," stands as an icon of dedication and growth within UB Recreation. Through his journey from sales associate to a key managerial role, Prince has not only contributed significantly to the department's success but has also enriched his own collegiate experience, leaving an inspiring legacy for future student staff to follow.