Kevin Lopez

Responsibilities

During my internship with Olympic Strength and Conditioning, I was responsible for assisting with the daily training operations of multiple Division I athletic teams. This included helping set up and break down the weight room before and after sessions, ensuring equipment was organized, and maintaining a safe and efficient training environment. I supported strength coaches during workouts by demonstrating exercises, providing basic coaching cues, and helping athletes with proper technique. I also had the opportunity to lead portions of training sessions, including warm-ups and occasionally full lifts, which helped me develop my confidence and communication skills as a coach. In addition, I monitored athlete performance and engagement throughout sessions, assisted with making small adjustments when needed, and helped keep athletes on track with their assigned programs using platforms like TeamBuildr. I also gained exposure to performance technology such as GymAware, which tracks metrics like velocity and power during lifts. Overall, my role was to support both the coaching staff and student-athletes while learning the expectations, structure, and intensity required to operate at the Division I level.

Accomplishments

My greatest accomplishment during my internship was developing the confidence and trust to take on a leadership role within training sessions. While the Division I strength and conditioning environment was initially overwhelming, I was able to grow into the role by leading warm-ups and portions of workouts, and occasionally full sessions. I built strong connections with athletes and helped encourage them to push past their comfort zones, which led to noticeable improvements in performance and confidence. Being able to contribute in a meaningful way while adapting to such a high-level environment is what I consider my biggest accomplishment.

Learning experience

The greatest lessons I learned from this experience were the importance of adaptability, communication, and consistency in a high-level environment. Working in Division I strength and conditioning showed me that being knowledgeable is not enough—you have to be able to communicate clearly, build trust with athletes, and adjust your coaching style based on the individual and the situation. I also learned how important it is to stay organized and maintain energy and focus throughout long, demanding days. Most importantly, this experience taught me that growth comes from being uncomfortable, and that stepping into challenging situations is necessary to develop both personally and professionally.

What advice would you give?

My advice for future students in this major is to stay present and approach every day with the mindset of wanting to learn something new. It is easy to get caught up in thinking about what is next, but the most growth happens when you focus on where you are and take full advantage of the opportunities in front of you. Ask questions, be open to feedback, and do not be afraid to make mistakes because that is where real learning happens. If you stay consistent, curious, and willing to learn every day, you will continue to improve and set yourself up for success.