Ferris State University students gain valuable work experience through internships. Internships also can confirm or redirect career decision-making, provide marketability, develop people skills and enhance classroom learning. Many academic programs require one, but the experience is encouraged regardless to provide students with a better understanding of what will be expected of them in the workplace.
Many students are participating in myriad internships this summer. Meet:
Alexis Cross
She is: Now in her senior year in the Professional Tennis Management Program with a minor in Psychology. Alexis was raised in Chesaning.
Her Internship: Is with Ferris’ Racquet and Fitness Center, and in service to Ferris Athletics, through their Sports Camps. “I am learning management skills and the skills needed to manage my own tennis club one day, possibly. I am also teaching tennis from ages two to adult. I am also a certified coach in pickleball. We recently did a charity tournament that raised money for the ARC animal shelter in Big Rapids. During Ferris Athletics’ tennis camps, I have been giving extra coaching to those not at the skill level of their peers. Some kids are more shy than others, so I also try my best to hang out with them and get them included with what the others are doing, so they can make more friends.”
Ferris’ Involvement in her Internship: “Most PTM internships are outside the state of Michigan. I wanted to learn more about managing a facility while I stayed in this area. The director of our program said I should talk to the Manager of the Racquet and Fitness Center on campus, and I had a conversation with her, and she created an internship that would be unique to my request. This internship would give me more experience coaching Pickleball and Tennis and management experience.
Future Plans: “My end goal for the future is to be the director of Pickleball or a manager at a tennis club.”
Advice For Fellow Students about Internships: “Talk to an advisor or your program director if you are having trouble deciding where you would like to intern. If you are expecting to gain certain experiences from an internship, they will be able to give you the best advice on places where you might apply.”
Internship Experience: “PTM students need to complete three internships, my most recent one before this was at Little Harbor Club in Harbor Springs.”
Ferris Core Values Alexis Relates to:
- Opportunity. “The PTM program has a high placement rate after graduating with the ability to get jobs in some of the nicest clubs.”
- Learning. “The three internships allow you to learn hands-on and increase your knowledge working under certified professionals eager to see you succeed.”
- Excellence. “PTM courses teach you a little bit of everything so you have some knowledge in anything you may experience. This prepares you for excellence in the tennis industry.”