SAM COSTELLO WOMEN’S SOCCER TEAM In 2013 and 2014, Sam excelled as a team captain. She racked an impressive number of achievements: Kutztown’s 2015 Female Athlete of the Year, twotime MVP, 2014 All-American, and two-time PSAC Athlete of the Week. “I still talk to those girls! It’s a testament to our sports program – our camaraderie – that has allowed us to stay in contact after all this time. We practically lived in Keystone Hall and we built friendships that have lasted a decade.” This fall, Sam was inducted into the KU Athletics Hall of Fame for her outstanding contributions to the team. ADVICE FOR STUDENTS Sam achieved her success beyond KU through her networking skills and willingness to step out of her comfort zone. She landed her job at Vita Coco through a professional connection who worked at the company at the time and recommended Sam for the position. “Don’t ever think you’re not good enough for something. It’s really easy to get into your head and feel like you’re not qualified for something, when in reality, you are the right candidate. Don’t be afraid to apply for that job.” VITA COCO Sam started at Vita Coco in 2020, where she joined the team as a sales operations analyst for the strategic accounts team. In her role, she help to supply the coconut drink to large retailers like Costco and Sam’s Club. Sam serves as the primary point of contact for Vita Coco’s broker, ensuring the product is delivered in a timely manner. “The leadership roles I had through KU and the Women’s Soccer team have led to my success at Vita Coco. The group work, presentations, and other skills I learned have translated into my career.” Sam is especially proud of the company culture that Vita Coco has fostered for its employees. She is the president of the Coco Pride Group, an employee-led LGBTQ+ community. In June 2024, Coco Pride partnered with Coffee Project New York to launch a special drink during Pride Month, with some proceeds donated to the Trevor Project. “I have great relationships with everyone I work with, and the company really supports a healthy work-life balance. We have open communication and can talk about anything.” In her free time, Sam enjoys taking her two dogs for walks and spending weekends with friends and family in Jersey City. 26 | INNOVISION MAGAZINE
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