Doug Spencer

Program of study: Political Science

Tampa Bay (FL), United States

For my final two work terms, I decided to venture abroad; I moved to Tampa, Florida, to work for an NHL hockey team, the Tampa Bay Lightning. I was the Media Relations Intern for eight months, in what was, hands down, the best year of my life, coming two wins shy of winning the Stanley Cup. One particular task I enjoyed was announcing the goals and penalty minutes in the press box. It also meant that I got to watch every single home game, which I thought was pretty cool. I learned how a professional sports team operates, and was able to use my political science knowledge to aid me in my weekly tasks. For example, I would write two weekly columns for the team’s website. I would call up the general managers and coaches of various junior teams to get quotes and talk about the Lightning’s top prospects. It was an incredible year, and one that helped me grow professionally and individually. I highly recommend that all students complete at least one international work term. The contacts and experience that you gain are invaluable. This helps to make you unique in interviews, and will help you land the job. So get out there; the world is yours to discover!