I have always been passionate about sports, so when I landed an internship at Nike this summer, it felt like a dream come true. Out of thousands of applicants, I was chosen to be part of the intern class representing Nike, Jordan, and Converse. This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I was determined to make the most of.
On my first day, I was nervous and full of questions. Will I fit in? Can I balance my job with my track and field training? What will it be like working in a corporate environment? Despite my doubts, I decided to focus on working hard, being myself, and trying new things.
As a student, I was used to being around people my age, so working with individuals of different ages and experiences was a bit intimidating. However, I dove right in, attending meetings, drafting content, and asking questions. This hands-on experience allowed me to connect with my colleagues and gain valuable insights.
Balancing my internship with my responsibilities as a collegiate student-athlete was challenging, but having access to top-tier facilities and a supportive community made it easier. I worked hard, and my team recognized my efforts, giving me opportunities to shine.
One of the highlights of my internship was interviewing Nike’s EVP and Chief Human Resources Officer in front of a large audience. This experience, along with other unforgettable moments like running with Colin Kaepernick and meeting Howard White, taught me the importance of being prepared and presenting myself professionally.
Building relationships with my fellow interns and participating in various activities like running a 5k and watching the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials made my summer internship experience truly memorable. I learned the value of authenticity, self-awareness, and networking in a corporate setting.
My advice to others is simple: take the risk and pursue your dreams. My internship at Nike was more than just a job; it was an opportunity for personal and professional growth. As Deion Sanders would say, dreams don’t happen overnight, so seize every opportunity to make yours a reality.
