Over the last six weeks, four high school students have worked at the Arlen Specter US Squash Center as “PYNterns,” students in the Philadelphia Youth Network summer internship program, and Facility Operations Assistants. The PYNternship program is a paid work-based learning program for high school students to gain real-world experience and build professional skills. Interested students applied in early March for the internship at the Specter Center July 1 – August 6.
“Having a PYNtern on our team was an incredible experience,” said Sakora Miller, Director of National Championships at US Squash. “Their enthusiasm, fresh ideas and willingness to learn made a meaningful impact on our organization.”
PYNterns assisted with front desk tasks, including prepping for evening events and assisting with member check-in, requiring organization and detail orientation. Working an evening wrestling event at the Specter Center was a highlight of the experience for PYNtern Israel Talbot-Dodson, an incoming twelfth grader.
“It’s a unique opportunity and I would recommend it for others,” reported Payton Hill, an incoming twelfth grader. “It went by fast and I learned how important it is to speak up.”
The PYNtern program is a great fit for the young people interested in learning more about sports in a welcoming environment with exposure to multiple aspects of the sports industry, including facility operations and tournament management.
Thank you Israel, Carl, Payton and Nahla for your hard work!
