Kalum Gaddis creates his own rhythm at CMU

Kalum Gaddis, a senior majoring in general business administration, arrived at CMU from Detroit, Mich., ready for a reset. Having transferred from another school, he wanted a fresh start—somewhere he could build something on his own terms.

"I ultimately chose CMU because it seemed like the right fit," he said. "I knew absolutely nobody, and I felt that’s what I needed on a new campus as a transfer. I love how I was welcomed with open arms into CMU by students and all the staff I met on campus tours."

Starting with versatility, not certainty

Gaddis chose business administration not because he had everything figured out, but because he understood the value of versatility. "I didn’t really want to just go undecided," he said. "I chose it on the decision of having many options when I graduated, and I kind of had a passion for entrepreneurship and working with people."

That choice introduced him to courses that made a lasting impact. "My favorite classes have been every business or marketing class that challenged me to think critically and apply concepts to real situations—especially group-based and project-driven courses," he said. "Those experiences pushed me to improve my communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills—things I know I’ll use beyond the classroom."

Support that makes a difference

What made the difference for Gaddis was feeling supported—in ways that felt consistent and practical. "Any time I ever need something from a specific department, or financial support, guidance, or anything, there is always an answer," he said. "I may have to dig a little, but there is always someone there to answer or give advice by any means."

That foundation equipped him to take on new challenges. His internship with CVS Pharmacy gave him a chance to apply what he was learning in the classroom. "It gave me real-world experience and management skills. Once I did the internship, my fear of post-grad was over, and I felt I was ready to take on a real job."

Building connection through consistency

Although he wasn’t involved in formal student organizations, Gaddis built his CMU community by consistently showing up. "Through consistently showing up, working hard, and being open to learning from others," he said. "Over time, people started to find out who I was through social media. I would add people just socially, and they would immediately support my YouTube and streaming venture. And it is still growing to this day."

That support created momentum beyond the classroom—a pattern that shaped both his academic and creative work.

Balancing creative hustle and consistency

Gaddis has built a daily rhythm that allows him to balance academics, work, and his creative outlet without burning out. He prioritizes coursework first, gives himself time to recharge, and then shifts intentionally to creative work.

“I take care of classes; I rest and eat and relax before I stream for three to four hours,” he said. “Then I work the rest of the day. While I’m at work, I edit videos from the stream.”

That structure supports his growing Competitive Madden NFL Gaming stream, where preparation, live creation, and post-production all require focus. Rather than squeezing creativity into spare moments, Gaddis approaches it with the same discipline he brings to his classes and job.

“Don’t chase outcomes. Build habits,” he said. “Your path doesn’t have to be perfect; it has to be intentional.”

He emphasizes consistency over comparison, noting that progress often builds quietly over time.

“Small daily efforts add up faster than you think,” he said.

For Gaddis, that momentum is reinforced by the community he’s built around his live Sports Content Creation work. Seeing his audience grow now more than 2,000 subscribers, keeps him motivated.

Building forward

Looking ahead, Gaddis plans to franchise stores and move into management, creating space for both business leadership and continued growth. "CMU has helped with the classes and the experience of going out on campus and learning how to connect with people."

And when he looks back on his time at CMU, it won’t be a single moment that stands out. It’ll be what all the moments added up to: "The growth. The lessons learned through discipline, persistence, and community, and the realization that success is built, not chased."