INTERNSHIP REFLECTION: MEMBERSHIP (ISABELLE STEPHENS)
STUDENT NAME: | Isabelle Stephens |
DEPARTMENT: | Consumer (Membership) |
CONTRIBUTION: What were 3 key ways that you contributed to this department during your internship?
GAME DAY OPERATIONS (MEMBER SUPPORT): I contributed to the running of Game Day operations by assisting with member-related activities and experiences. This included supporting the Guard of Honour, assisting with member events and answering members' questions during each Game Day. This gave me valuable experience in providing a positive member experience in an extremely fast-paced environment. A highlight was definitely our 2026 Member Appreciation Round!
2027 MEMBERSHIP ROLLOVER: I assisted the Membership Team during the 2027 membership rollover period, which is a particularly busy and important time for the department. I supported returning members, new members and members making changes to their existing memberships by helping to ensure enquiries were handled efficiently and members received the appropriate support.
FAN & MEMBER COMMUNICATION: Responding to day-to-day, fan & member enquiries were a key part of my internship. These enquiries covered a range of topics, including Game Day information, memberships, merchandise and general club questions. This allowed me to develop my communication and problem-solving skills while gaining a better understanding of the needs and expectations of Parramatta Eels' fan and members.
NETWORKING: Who were 3 key people that you built connections with during this internship?
Tiana Maruci (Consumer & Events Executive)
Cooper Barter (Consumer Servicing Executive)
Ryan Cole (Senior Consumer Operations Manager)
PROFESSIONAL LEARNING: What were 3 key things that you learnt about the sporting industry during this internship?
No two days in sport are ever the same - I learnt that every day in the sporting industry provides different challenges, opportunities and experiences. Being adaptable and open to learning each day is extremely valuable for personal and professional growth.
The importance of taking opportunities and risks - I learnt that pushing yourself to take on new opportunities and step outside of your comfort zone is an important part of learning and growing within the sporting industry. Trying new things can provide valuable experiences and help build confidence and skills.
How important connections are - I learnt that building strong connections and relationships is extremely important within the sporting industry. Networking with people and developing professional relationships can create valuable opportunities and help support career progression.
PERSONAL LEARNING: What was ONE key thing that you learnt about yourself / your career goals during this internship?
During my internship, I learnt that pushing myself outside of my comfort zone is extremely important and can have a significant impact on progressing my career. Before starting my internship, I was extremely nervous and shy about beginning this new chapter in my sports career. I had many doubts about myself and questioned whether I was good enough to even complete an internship.
However, by pushing myself, taking on new challenges and believing in my abilities, I realised that the only way that I can continue to grow and progress in my career is by stepping outside of my comfort zone. The past six months have been an incredibly valuable experience, and I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to complete my internship. I have learnt so much, gained confidence and experienced many new things that I believe will be essential as I begin my career in sport.
