The Hidden World of College Athletics
Courtney
Experience Information
Employer: Grand Valley State Athletics
Job Title: Sports Marketing Intern
Major: Sport Management
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: No
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Grand Valley State University is one of the most prestigious Division 2 universities in the country. Not only that, but we are also home to the winningest athletic program in the country. Holding 12 Director's Cup Titles within the past 17 years, there is no doubt that Grand Valley stands tall in athletics. There are 20 varsity sports, splitting between 11 women's sports and 9 men's sports. There are a lot of opportunities for students to continue their athletic careers and be successful at Grand Valley.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
More often than not, there are huge chunks of students who want to work in college athletics. They aspire to work alongside the top Division 1 schools within their athletic programs. But where does one start? In the marketing department for athletics, we are responsible for fulfilling promotional and sponsorship contracts, develop marketing strategies to engage with students, and execute those marketing plans on game days.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I learned first hand that the world of sport is filled with thankless work. A lot of work goes unnoticed by most, but the gratification of seeing a game day come together and ran smoothly made it all worth it.
Favorite Part of the Experience
I have been attending football games since I was a freshman. My favorite part of my internship was being involved in the behind-the-scenes work of what makes a football game an experience. And when all of the work was done, we had the privilege of standing on the sideline and watching the game up close.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This experience showed me that I am capable of more than I thought I was. Working 14 hour days was exhausting, but it was also fulfilling. People tend to sell themselves short, but completing this internship showed me that I have the ability to succeed in this field.