Internships in the Sports Industry:
Like many other industries, completing an internship or volunteer experience in the sports industry can go along way in gaining the necessary knowledge and skills to get hired in the field. Making professional connections is also key to getting hired in this industry and learning how to network and meet people in the field of sports will definitely work to an intern's advantage.
What makes an internship with Orlando Magic a valuable experience :
We also provide networking opportunities, resume and interview skill training, and hold monthly meetings titled "College of Knowledge", which are held for interns only. We bring in a different member of our Leadership team to speak to the interns, tell them how they climbed the Sports industry ladder, and answer any of their questions. This is a great opportunity for students to get in front of our Directors and Vice Presidents, and even our COO and General Manager.
Please describe the type of internships that are available with Orlando Magic:
Both summer and season internships are full time. We offer internships in a variety of departments, including: Arena Operations, Basketball Operations, Broadcasting, Business Strategy, Communications, Community Relations, Corporate Partnerships, Interactive Marketing, Graphic Design, Information Technology, Marketing, Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, Season Ticket Services & Operations, Strength & Conditioning, and Ticket Sales.
Approximately how many interns does Orlando Magic hire each year:
The Orlando Magic normally hires about 15 interns for the summer timeframe and approximately 25 interns for the season.
Approximately how many interns does Orlando Magic hire on as full time employees:
An internship does not guarantee anyone a full time position, but if a position does open up while an intern is there and they have done a great job, they will have a huge advantage over external candidates. We keep all former interns e-mail addresses in our Alumni distribution list, and we keep them posted via email on all job opportunities that arise.
What advice would you give students who are interested in a career in sports:
Get as involved as possible in sports as you can, and try to pick an aspect of it you are interested in. If you are interested in the Sales side, then work with your college's ticket office. If you're interested in Marketing, volunteer to help out at football or basketball games. Even if you're not getting paid, that experience will be priceless. Many professional sports teams also have game night or day positions, which are great for students because of the flexible hours.
Are there any specific majors that would prepare students for a career:
What does Orlando Magic look for when interviewing interns and employees:
We look for someone who is hard working and passionate about sports. When you work in Sports, you do not work the typical 9-5 day - there are days when you work 12 - 15 hours based on the game schedule, and we look for someone who is passionate enough about sports to love those long days! We normally receive about 100 resumes for each internship we offer, and I normally interview approximately 10 of those candidates for each internship.
The things that impress me most in those interviews are people who are focused, have done their research on the Magic, and are excited about the opportunity. Candidates who are applying for an internship in the exact area they want to work in in the future is great as well, as that shows they have goals and they might be a good full time candidate down the line.
What personal attributes and experiences does Orlando Magic seek in their job applicants:
We look for positive people with great attitudes who will fit into our culture. They need to have strong goals and the work ethic to reach those goals. Since we have internships in several different areas, candidates who have specific experience, whether it be on a club, volunteering, part or full time positions in the specific area they are applying for, will really stand out.
How can college students prepare themselves for a career in the sports industry:
Volunteering and getting that experience is the most important thing. Many schools have groups or clubs that students can be involved with as well. If there's a professional or minor league team in their area, I would recommend getting to know people in the organization and making those contacts as early as possible, which could include volunteering with the team or working part time while in school.
Also, most Career Services Offices at colleges and universities across the country are a great place to go for information as well. We post all our internships with all the schools in Florida, as well as many schools throughout the country. All Orlando Magic Internships are posted online.
