Jaylen Brazzle, a junior at St. Ambrose University majoring in sport and recreation management, has concluded a summer internship with the Quad City Corporate Games. His role as an event coordinator involved organizing athletic competitions for employees across various local businesses, providing him both practical experience and a newfound confidence.
Building Leadership Skills
Initially unprepared for the demands of the role, Brazzle noted that his position required him not only to work behind the scenes but also to take charge in various situations. As he reflected on his journey, he described himself as naturally introverted, but recognized that his internship forced him to step outside his comfort zone. “I had to become comfortable to talk more and be loud,” he stated, indicating a commitment to personal growth.
His internship journey began after he learned about the opportunity through an email from the university’s Academic and Career Planning Center. During his time with the Quad City Corporate Games, Brazzle participated in organizing events including basketball, pickleball, and dodgeball. His tasks involved establishing competition brackets, coordinating logistics, and addressing participant inquiries—providing a comprehensive view of event management.
One significant challenge posed itself during a pickleball event when rain threatened to disrupt proceedings. With his supervisor absent, Brazzle stepped up, relocating the competition indoors and ensuring that the event continued smoothly. “That was my first time really having to be loud and use my voice,” he remarked, highlighting his ability to adapt and make critical decisions in a timely manner.
Throughout the summer, Brazzle not only honed his event management skills but also learned valuable lessons about leadership and communication. He found that asking for help was a crucial aspect of effective management, emphasizing, “It’s okay to ask questions. It’s okay to not know what you’re doing because you can get help.”
Brazzle’s experiences during the internship reinforced his desire to pursue a career in sports management, a path he felt was solidified after overcoming various challenges. His background as a college athlete and experiences with coaches inspired him to take on leadership roles and mentor younger teammates. He expressed a strong belief in perseverance and self-improvement, stating, “You can do it if you put your mind to it.”
Why It Matters
Jaylen Brazzle’s internship has provided him not only with essential skills needed for a successful career in sports management but has also fostered a sense of confidence and leadership. His journey exemplifies the importance of real-world experience in education and highlights how internships can significantly shape a student’s future direction and professional aspirations.
