The Experience:
The NASCAR Foundation supports a wide range of charitable programs that reflect the core values of the entire NASCAR family. As an intern at the Foundation, Heather Suggs is responsible for volunteer input related to community track walks, and she writes thank-you letters to Friends of Foundation. As the connection between the NASCAR Foundation, NASCAR teams and race fans, Heather makes a real impact on the lives of those who need it most.
We spoke with Heather about her experience at the NASCAR Foundation:
The Best Part:
Working for the Foundation has given me the opportunity to work side by side with some of NASCAR's most influential people. But perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of the internship is being able to meet some of the people the Foundation has helped. Being a part of something that allows me to not only apply classroom learning and gain hands-on experience in my field but also gives me the satisfaction of helping those less fortunate makes this internship truly special.
Career Aspirations:
After graduation, I plan to use my education and internship experiences to facilitate a career within the motorsports industry. The internship has reaffirmed my choice in the motorsports management concentration because it allows me to see that not only do I love being around racing, but, by working with the business side of the sport, I can still be a part of racing. While I did originally see myself working with a team, I sure wouldn't mind having this internship materialize into a job!
Hands on Learning:
Overall, the Motorsports Management concentration and its related courses prepare students within the program for life after college. By allowing students like Heather to utilize internships as an extension of classroom learning, students gain first-hand experience in the motorsports industry, and the industry recognizes that Abbey graduates have the right stuff to be successful. Furthermore, Heather credits her teachers and classes for giving her such opportunities to work with major NASCAR organizations such as the Foundation. "The classes have helped because it has allowed me to meet many industry leaders I may not have had access to on my own." On the other hand, the motorsports classes help broaden student's perspective of the industry as a whole. It isn't all about the driver, the number on the car, and the team. "It has helped me understand better what goes into putting on a race event, not only from the perspective of the track, but also of the teams, sanctioning body, and other entities that are involved in entertaining the fans."
Recommendations:
"My advice: Find a niche; if you like an internship, try and keep your foot in the door to continue interning there even after your required hours are completed. Meet as many people as you can and do something that will make them remember you. Better yet, get business cards made. All you need to really include is your name and contact information. That will leave a lasting impression of professionalism and drive on your part. Plus you never know who they may share your contact information with, and it could lead to something very good for your potential career."
