BEVERLY, Mass. – Endicott College is a pioneer in requiring comprehensive internship experiences in every program of study for undergraduate students. Kevin Craig (Hyannis, Mass.), who is a business management major and member of the men's ice hockey program, recently completed an internship at Cape Cod Hockey. Here's a look into his internship experience.
1) Why Cape Cod Hockey?
I chose Cape Cod Hockey for my internship because it is an organization that holds high values, and I was fortunate enough to get the opportunity to be a part of it this summer. Cape Cod Hockey is a growing organization that is run by a college hockey alum, so it appealed to me. The people involved truly care about the business and players and it has truly been special to be a part of and to be able to learn from the experience.
2) What was the process like to obtain your internship?
I have grown a close relationship over the years with the owner of Cape Cod Hockey, Barry O'Neil, so I was able to get in touch with him to look at the possibility of a summer internship and what that entails. With a couple of phone calls, we were able to set up a plan for me which included hours and what I was going to be doing on a day-to-day basis.
3) Describe your overall internship experience.
This internship had a positive impact on my learning pertaining to small business management as well as how to be successful in a highly specific market such as running a small hockey organization.
I was able to help coach on the ice a couple of days a week which gave me firsthand experience in how to properly coach younger children. Every athlete knows that sports teaches them life lessons throughout the journey and I was honored to be able to be a part of that experience for some players.
I was also able to learn about the importance of social media and the social media presence that Cape Cod Hockey has on various platforms such as Instagram. Lastly, I was able to learn about the merchandising that the organization does and was given insight into the financial aspect of the business.
4) What have you learned from your internship?
What I have learned from my internship is that running a business is very difficult. It has long days and takes very hard work but the satisfaction you get from the results makes it all worth it. You want to work for something that you enjoy and have a passion for. You also want to work for a company that wants to see you be successful. Lastly, have fun with what you are doing.
5) How will this internship help you in your career moving forward?
I believe this internship helped me with what type of job I am looking for. I am not sure right now if hockey is going to be a part of my job even though I love it, but I know I am looking for an organization similar to Cape Cod Hockey and the values that they possess. I want to be able to show up to work every day excited to do what I do and this internship has definitely given me experience in what that looks like.
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(Photo Credit - David Le '10)
