Independent Studies | University of Waterloo

Ely Schwartz Profile My thesis was completed using the practical experience I gained through starting a business during the summer months when I was not in school. I started a tennis camp for kids at a local tennis court in Waterloo, and received funding from the Ontario Tennis Association to get the program started.

As a member of the Varsity tennis team, both children and parents recognize the importance presence of University students in the Waterloo community. I encouraged my teammates and coaches to participate as volunteers for my program. The program ran for three years and provided me with a great summer job.

The focus of my thesis is on the program development, marketing and promotional aspects of the business. I started at UW as a Recreation and Leisure major. I wanted to apply the concepts I was learning in the classroom to a real world scenario. After three years in this program I wanted to attempt to expand my business and start preparations for the summer well in advance.

Due to timing constraints, I was not able to do this until I transferred into the Independent Studies program. IS gave me the flexibility to earn my undergraduate degree, and gain real world business experience at the same time. This project gave me perspective on positive and negative steps taken in developing an entrepreneurial business. I was also able to document my actions, and research potential options for further success.

The IS experience has given me the opportunity to apply and secure my first full-time position as the manager of a new tennis program at the Ontario Tennis Association.

I recommend the IS program to anyone who does not feel comfortable learning under the strict, regimented confines found in other faculties. I would also recommend this program to anyone looking for experience outside the lecture halls.

For Cardio Tennis news and kewel prizes from contests, contact Ely at his Twitter account, cardiotennisont.

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Ely Schwartz This page was last reviewed on February 6, 2012