Emily Hayward, a recent graduate from Ohio State University, has shared how her experience embodying the university’s mascot, Brutus Buckeye, profoundly altered her understanding of community and compassion. Initially drawn to the role by the excitement surrounding the college’s sports events, Hayward soon discovered a much deeper purpose within the character.
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Having completed her biomedical engineering degree in May 2023, Hayward now works as a clinical account specialist for Johnson & Johnson MedTech in Pittsburgh. Yet, her journey with Brutus Buckeye remains a defining aspect of her life, offering her significant lessons in kindness and presence. “There are very few roles in life where your purpose is simply to make someone’s day a little brighter, even for a few seconds,” she stated, reflecting on the impact she could have as a mascot.
Wearing the Brutus costume brought Hayward more than just the thrill of entertaining crowds. Her duties extended beyond the football field, incorporating a variety of community engagements, hospital visits, and promotional events. Each day in the role left her with little time to settle into a routine, as she often switched between appearances, training sessions, and content creation for social media. “There really was no such thing as an average day as Brutus,” she noted.
As she settled into her responsibilities, Hayward began to realise the profound effect her presence could have on others. A brief interaction with a fan could become a cherished memory for them, a sentiment she believes requires total attention and commitment in those fleeting moments. “You learn the importance of showing up fully for people, regardless of what may be happening in your own life,” she explained.
A standout experience for Hayward was participating in the Buckeye Cruise for Cancer, an event that raised an impressive £4.6 million for cancer research. This event illustrated how the Ohio State community can rally together for a greater cause, and she was moved by the connection and support that infused the event. “Witnessing the impact that support could have on patients and families was something I’ll never forget,” she remarked.
While large gatherings and events were integral to her role, it was often the intimate moments with individuals that left an indelible mark on her experience. Meeting elderly fans who expressed joy about finally meeting Brutus or visiting hospital patients deepened her understanding of the mascot’s significance. “Those moments completely changed how I viewed the role,” she said.
Through her time as Brutus, Hayward gained a unique insight into the human experience. The suit offered her an unusual lens through which to observe people’s emotions and expressions. “Behind the suit, you get a unique perspective on people,” she added. “You see how much joy and connection can come from something as simple as showing up for someone.”
Looking back on her time in this beloved role, Hayward reflected on how the experience shaped her character and approach to life. “It taught me discipline, humility, confidence, and the importance of bringing positive energy into every room you walk into,” she stated. Her journey as Brutus Buckeye not only brought delight to countless fans but also instilled in her the realisation that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact.
As she embarks on her professional journey in the biomedical field, the lessons Emily Hayward learned as Brutus will undoubtedly continue to resonate. The significance of human connection, kindness, and community spirit remains a powerful theme of her narrative, reminding all of us of the profound influence we can have on one another’s lives, often without even being aware of it.