Students blog

Professional football’s championship game is one of the most-watched events in sports. It involves complex planning and coordination behind the scenes. I have had the unique opportunity to work with the host committee where I’ve gained hands-on experience in managing event logistics, coordinating volunteers, and collaborating with community partners to bring this major event to life.

How I Got Involved

Landing an internship with the New Orleans Sports Foundation was a dream come true. As a senior hospitality and tourism management student, with a passion for sports management, I actively sought opportunities to gain industry experience. Through networking and persistence, I secured the position and stepped into a fast-paced environment where every day brought a new challenge.

My Role as an Intern

As an intern, my role has been diverse. I’ve assisted with event logistics, helped coordinate the volunteer program, and supported community outreach initiatives. Seeing fans enjoy events I have had a hand in planning is incredibly rewarding. The experience pushed me to improve my communication, critical thinking, organization, and problem-solving skills, all of which will serve me in future roles.

Lessons Learned

Interning with the host committee provided me insight into professional sports event management. I learned how to adapt quickly, work with diverse teams, and handle high pressure situations. These experiences gave me confidence in my ability to thrive in challenging environments and reaffirmed my passion for a career in sports hospitality management.

Advice for Students

For students looking to break into hospitality event management, I recommend seeking internships and volunteer roles to gain hands-on experience. Building relationships, staying open to feedback, and approaching every task with a learning mindset will set you apart in any industry.

Interning with the host committee for this major event has been an unforgettable experience that taught me lessons I’ll carry throughout my career. Whether you're a fan or a future industry professional, there’s no better way to understand the magic of this event than by being part of the team that makes it happen.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

While growing up, I was always involved in sports in various aspects. Whether I was playing on the field, supporting my siblings, or watching games on television, sports was a part of nearly everything I did. This happened quickly from a young age. At the time it didn’t occur to me that sports could be an area where I’d find my future career.

First There Was Football

My favorite sport to watch has always been football. Football has always been a big thing in my family, from Friday night lights to NFL Sundays. I have always enjoyed the lively and social atmosphere on game days. This led me to wanting to pursue a football game day staff position at my local university during my senior year of high school. I enjoyed every minute of my experience there.

Campus Job

As soon as I started college, I reached out to acquire a similar position and was hired by my university’s athletic department as an Event Services and Facilities Operations Student Assistant. In my role, I get to work and connect with so many staff members across the various different athletic departments, as well as external visitors who use our facilities on campus.

Taking It to the Next Level

This past semester, I recently started a position as a football equipment manager. This has been one of my favorite positions, since in this role I get to be more involved with what happens on the field and not just the stadium. Although both of my roles include many long and busy days and nights, I believe that getting involved in the sports industry has been one of the best experiences so far.

Over the last three years, I have gained and developed numerous skills, such as communication and time management, that have been beneficial outside of work. I have had the best experience working in the sports industry so far, which is why I have decided to pursue a career within the industry after graduation. My goal is to someday work in event operations at a professional sports stadium or arena.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

The first week of May is typically recognized as National Travel and Tourism Week in the United States. College students often have access to unique opportunities to travel for study abroad or during term breaks.

Travel allows people to gain new experiences that they may not be able to have at home. Stepping out of your comfort zone and exploring new places allows you to expand your understanding of the diversity of other cultures, while also helping you to build self-confidence as you meet different people from all around the world. You can also generate your creativity by traveling to new places and seeing new things.

While growing up, my family and I used to go on road trips all the time to visit relatives. Ever since then, traveling has become one of my favorite hobbies. Whether it be just a spur of the moment trip, or a weekend getaway, I am always down to join along. My favorite part of traveling is getting the opportunity to see new places, meeting new people, and getting to try new things.

Ways to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week:

Go on a trip

Not all trips have to be extravagant and long. Take a trip to a new city or visit somewhere local you have never been before!

Send a gift

If you attend college outside of your hometown, send a gift to one of your friends or family members. Choose something that represents the city you live in!

Try a foreign cuisine

The best way to experience a new culture is through the cuisine. Look and see if there are any local restaurants in your area!

Research your next adventure

Pick a destination that you would like to travel to someday and look into their culture. For example, look into what holidays they celebrate! Or, check out your university’s study abroad or other travel opportunities.

Traveling is known to be a great stress reliever, and as a busy college student, taking a break from school and getting away is important for your mental health, since it allows you to disconnect and recharge.

What tourism opportunities are in your future?

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started!