Gavin Miller
Responsibilities
I assisted with set-up and takedown of weight room and speed/agility equipment, had the opportunity to lead full training sessions at the middle school and high school levels (including warm-up, speed/agility stations, and a lift portion), I was able to give 1-on-1 coaching and feedback to individuals about their weightlifting technique, periodically clean the weight room, and learn how to use strength performance software (Rackcoach, in this case).
Accomplishments
My greatest accomplishment was being able to run athletes through an entire training session that flowed well and was time-conscious. Over time, I learned how to better lead to create a more effective session.
Learning experience
I learned that the more experience I had, the better I became at leading a group of athletes. The very first time I was able to lead a training session from beginning to end, I thought it went well, but I knew that there was room for improvement. After being able to do it for several weeks, my skills improved and I was able to lead confidently and effectively. I also learned the importance of making connections of the population that I was working with.
What advice would you give?
For those who need an internship, it is truly what you decide to make it. You can sit in a corner for 12 weeks and scrape by, or you can take initiative with the people you are working with and make the most of it. I encourage anyone in this major to take their internship seriously and get the most professional experience out of the time that they have.