For University of Nevada, Reno senior Snoop Leota-Amaama, success has never been defined by just one arena. As a student-athlete and human development and family science (HDFS) major, he’s built his college experience on connection, consistency and showing up fully, whether on the field or in the classroom. 

Leota-Amaama transferred to Nevada in 2024 ahead of his junior year, bringing with him both athletic ambition and a desire to make a meaningful impact beyond sports. He found that opportunity through HDFS, where hands-on learning quickly became the highlight of his academic journey. 

“I chose HDFS because I could get hands-on experience working with kids,” he said. “My best memories have been coming here and connecting with the children.” 

At the Child and Family Research Center (CFRC), the on-campus, high-quality early childhood education and childcare center, Leota-Amaama spent two semesters immersed in early childhood classrooms, working with infants, toddlers and preschoolers. What began as a new and unfamiliar environment soon became a place where he built genuine relationships and confidence. 

“At first, I was kind of hesitant,” he said. “But as the year went on, I tried my best to connect with the kids. I’m really proud I was able to overcome that.” 

That growth didn’t go unnoticed. Known for his consistent presence and engagement, Leota-Amaama became a trusted and steady figure in the classroom. He was someone children gravitated toward and looked forward to seeing each day. 

“Snoop didn’t just show up, he showed children what it means to be truly seen,” said Professor Jenna Dewar, HDFS faculty member, whose young daughter also happened to be in one of the two classrooms that Leota-Amaama volunteered in. “He met each child with consistency, respect and genuine engagement. The bonds he built speak for themselves, as the children are, without question, his greatest Wolf Cub fans.” 

His experience reflects a core principle of HDFS: the concept that strong, responsive relationships are foundational to development. By showing up fully engaged, attentive and authentic, Leota-Amaama helped create an environment where children felt seen, capable and valued. 

Jenna Fortino, a lead educator within the CFRC, highlights the connection he made with the children during his practicum and internship experiences.  

“When Snoop came into my classroom, the children were always excited,” Fortino said. “It is great to have someone who is involved in sports interact with the kiddos to give them new and interesting ways to play. He is always eager to run and play outside with the children.” 

He credits much of his success to the support system around him, including faculty and internship mentors who guided him along the way. 

“Miss Jenna, Miss Kaitlyn, my supervisors Emily, Leanah, Jenna, Vikki — they all had a big impact on me,” he said. 

Balancing the demands of athletics, academics and an internship wasn’t always easy, but Leota-Amaama leaned on the work ethic instilled by his family. 

“My parents motivate me,” he said. “Seeing how hard they work pushes me to keep going.” 

One of his proudest accomplishments was completing his internship hours early in the semester, a milestone that required discipline and persistence. As a student-athlete, he recognizes that opportunities like his aren’t always easy to come by. 

“It’s not everyday student-athletes get to do something like this,” he said. “I’m just happy I got to experience it.” 

Leota-Amaama's athletic advisor, Sarah Green, had the opportunity to observe his athletic and academic growth firsthand.

“Early on, Snoop faced challenges with engagement and independence, but over time he has grown into a student who takes ownership of his work and meets challenges with determination,” Green said. “Once Snoop fully committed to his practicum at the CFRC last year, his increased engagement translated directly to academic success. I am immensely proud of all that he has accomplished on his path to earning his degree.” 

Looking ahead, Leota-Amaama plans to return for his final year of college football, with the long-term goal of declaring for the National Football League. 

For future students, his advice is simple but practical: communicate and stay connected. 

“I’m not a perfect student,” he said. “But communication goes a long way. Stay in touch with your professors and supervisors.” 

Whether working with young children or pursuing his goals in athletics, Leota-Amaama's time at Nevada has been defined by growth, connection and the impact of showing up for others. And in at least one early childhood center on campus, his legacy is already clear: a group of young fans who know him simply as someone who showed up, paid attention and made them feel like they mattered.