Internship Provides Stepping Stone for Soccer's Cilenti

Senior Samantha Cilenti, a four-year member of the Mitchell College women's soccer team, spent the spring semester as an intern for the New England Black Wolves of the National Lacrosse League.

As part of her role with the Black Wolves, who play their home games at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., Cilenti enjoyed the opportunity to work within several different departments that handle event management. She also worked with the WNBA's Connecticut Sun and was part of the team that hosted the 2016 WNBA Draft in April.

In addition to gameday preparations, Cilenti had key roles in keeping player statistics, researching at the grassroots level, game day contests, and media relations. As the spring semester came to a close, she had a better understanding of how a professional team operates and what is involved in working in professional sports.

"I learned which positions I like and really enjoy doing," she said. "This is just a step closer to what I really would like to pursue a career in, and I can't wait to see what the future holds."

Competition for the internship was fierce, but Cilenti credited the knowledge she gained at Mitchell with aiding her in the process. She was prepared for the role and welcomed any and all opportunities to get on-the-job experience.

"Mitchell definitely helped prepare me for this internship -- everything from the interview process, to creating a resume and cover letter, as well as displaying a professional presentation. I wouldn't have had my resume or cover letter done without career services' help in looking them over."

Cilenti believes her experience and education will give her an edge in landing a job in the professional sports field. As for classmates who might want to follow a similar path, she offers one piece of advice.

"As you're looking for internships, it's important to find one that will offer you the most experiences, as well as something that interests you. The more you learn and experience, the more you will discover what you want -- and don't want -- to pursue in your career."