South Carolina State University Athletics

The goal of the internship/mentor program is to provide participating individuals with the knowledge base and skill set needed to enter the job market. Participants receive meaningful work assignments, interact with mentors and student athletes, collaborate on group projects and experience first-hand the inner workings of one of the premier Athletic Departments in the country.

The best way for an individual to enter the athletics job market is through professional experience and networking. Our program offers participants these opportunities. Through the program, individuals are placed in our departments in the area that they express their interest: Administration, Recruitment, Communications, Marketing, or Operations.

We seek out students who exhibit leadership skills, academic excellence, and enthusiasm. Our program is structured not only to provide the individuals with valuable experiences within their own field, but to broaden their knowledge of their colleagues' fields through group projects and social interaction within athletic events.

Structure of the Program
Description of the internship are as follows:

Academic Credit- Individuals participate in the academic internship program in order to meet the academic requirements of their degree while gaining valuable work experience in their chosen field. These interns work part time (20 hours/week). There is no monetary compensation for these positions.

Professional Development
At South Carolina State University, there is a strong commitment to professional development. Our program is conducted with this concept in mind. The department places great importance on an individual's development and success. Participants are assigned mentors to provide training and guide them through the program. Mentors tailor the experience to each intern's professional goals.

Permanent Employment
The internship/mentor program is designed to facilitate a learning experience. Its purpose is to provide individuals the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skill set needed to enter the job market. Once an internship is completed, SC State is under no obligation to offer full-time employment to participating students. Likewise, participating students are under no obligation to SC State after completion of the prescribed work period for the internship.
 
 
Administration
Student employees will assist executive staff within office and game day tasks and execution. Student employees will gain firsthand knowledge of what it takes to operate a Division I Athletics program at South Carolina State University. There will be an in-depth look at how our department fulfills contracts, organizes vending and tailgating, manages budgets and more.

Athletic Facilities & Game Day Operations
Student employees assist with event management functions, facility preparation, supplying game day needs, and facility management. Student employees will also assist with event staffing, providing game day support as assistant game managers to professional staff, working closely with coaching staff, game officials and visiting teams.

Communications
Student employees within the Office of Athletic Strategic Communications department help to promote and enhance the organization's brand and engage with fans, followers, and the media across various digital platforms. There are opportunities to work in photo, video, graphic design, social media, and sports information.  Student employees have the opportunity to help manage social media output for SC State Athletics, create content for Bulldog Athletics, and more.

Marketing
Student employees execute in-game promotions and fan engagement elements at home SC State Athletic events. They create and implement marketing initiatives and strategies for select sports and participate in the development of marketing initiatives and each collegiate sport and the entire Bulldog Nation fan base. Student employees lead and manage sponsor activations and organize featured fan events while assisting with day-to-day office operations.

*Students employees will be expected to hold weekly office hours and help with administrative tasks as well as assist in-game elements such as promotions, recognitions, giveaways, etc. This position requires the commitment to work athletic events which includes nights and weekends. *

Application Process
Individuals interested in the SC State Athletics Internship/Mentor Program should compile and submit the following information in their application packet:
• Cover Letter- Outline your interest in the program including the specific internship and departmental area in which you are applying.
• Resume

Please apply here.

The athletics department will subsequently review all applications relative to available internship openings and respond to accepted applicants accordingly. If you have any questions about the application process, please feel free to contact Kendrick D. Lewis, Assistant AD for Strategic Communications & Marketing, by emailing klewis19@scsu.edu.