Billy Haubrich (IMJR in Sport Promotion and the Media) spent fall 2007 as a media/marketing intern for the Travelers Championship in Hartford (a PGA TOUR Event). He graduated in spring 2008 with a double major in Communication Sciences and an IMJR in Sport Promotion and the Media.
“I included an internship on my academic plan in order to receive hands-on experience different from the theoretical and conceptual knowledge I gained in University courses. I was interested in an experience that would let me apply these theories and concepts in the real world. I decided that an internship would be the best way to apply everything that I’ve learned from my academic courses and receive a great experience at the same time.”
“Since my Individualized Major is Sport Promotion and the Media, I wanted an internship that focused on media relations within the sport management industry. I accepted an internship with the Professional Golf Association Tour and I am currently a media/marketing intern for the Travelers Championship in Hartford. My responsibilities as an intern at the Travelers Championship involve taking charge of all media relations, such as the media guide, press day, and contacting media professionals to promote the tournament. Overall, I have been able to apply what I have learned from my academic courses at UConn while learning new concepts and theories at the same time.”
“This internship has provided me with more experience than any academic class ever could. From this one internship, I have learned little things – like how to use Microsoft Excel – to big things – like how to write press releases. These things might not be major milestones, but they are an important part of understanding how to be successful in this, or any, job. I’ve also been able to reflect upon my academic classes and apply what I’ve been taught to my internship. This gives me a better understanding of the college work I have done.”
“The internship has changed the way I think about the sports promotion issues my IMJR addresses, and I’ve been able to expand and analyze these issues with a better understanding of the profession. I am receiving a first hand view of what really takes place in the industry I am due to enter and I am very thankful to have the chance to see the behind-the-scenes action that cannot be experienced in a textbook.”
“The best part of my internship was applying all the knowledge I have learned to a hands-on experience that I enjoyed. It served as a confidence booster as I realized that I do have the tools and knowledge to handle a job in this business.”
“My internship was not accompanied by related courses and this allowed me to give my full attention to the experience. I absolutely loved going to work and focusing on day-to-day projects. I have absolutely no disappointments.”
Billy's advice to students considering getting an internship:
“My advice for students is simple: GET INVOLVED! Internships are the best way to apply the knowledge you have learned. By receiving hands-on experience, you are getting involved in an industry that you want to spend your life working in; you might as well give it a try now to make sure it’s the right fit! I am so grateful that I got involved and found valuable internships; they have been the best “classes” I have ever taken!”
Internship: Sport Promotion