One of the many aspects of UISRM that sets it apart from other programs is the opportunity for students to earn field experience. This is accomplished in two forms. Guided field experience allows students to work with an outside partner or partners in a cohort that includes fellow students and an instructor. Independent field experience allows a student to secure an approved internship and receive individual support from a faculty member. 

Both forms let students explore the complex world of sport and recreation while earning course credit towards their degree. This is invaluable as students approach the end of their academic careers. UISRM’s field experience structure allows graduates to come out of school with internship and volunteer experience that gives them an advantage over many who covet the desired positions in the industry. 

I have led four cohorts of students who worked with Hawkeye Athletics, the Iowa City Area Sports Commission, and other partners through the Fans First guided field experience practicum. For the first time this summer, I had the honor of supporting fourteen students enrolled in independent field experience. In their roles, they are working in sports such as baseball, golf, basketball, hockey, and soccer. Their responsibilities include coaching, working cameras, dragging fields, making sales calls for season tickets, and even putting together workout and sporting equipment.  

The consistent theme through all field experience is that each student is gaining skills, knowledge, abilities, and experiences that will help catapult them to the top of the list when they start searching for full-time jobs.  Industry professionals talk of the long hours and arduous tasks that come up in sport and recreation, not to deter aspiring professionals, but to help prepare students for what is to come. The ability for students to use their summer months to experience that for themselves helps them be industry ready!  

Students, be sure you start having conversations with Anna Jensen, UISRM Director of the Office of Field Experience, to start planning your path today. Program partners, thank you for your support of our students and providing them field experience opportunities that make them industry ready! 

Kate Wakenight (kathryn-wakenight@uiowa.edu) 

Assistant Professor of Instruction