Clemson University’s University Professional Internship and Co-op Program (UPIC) has become a pillar of development for students to utilize during their time as a Tiger. Clemson’s Student-Athlete Development department, led by Assistant Directors Sable Lee and Anthony Hines, is proud to have helped 24 student-athletes take advantage of the program while continuing to pursue excellence at their sport during the 2020 fall semester.
“I couldn’t be prouder of this group of student-athletes,” said Lee. “Their dedication to their professional growth amid a pandemic is to be recognized and honored. Thank you to ONE Clemson, Dr. Lori Pindar, Robin Bradley, and all of our mentors who made an impact on our student-athletes.”
Out of the 24 graduates from this year’s student-athlete UPIC cohort, 19 were first-time interns. The 24 interns were spread across 15 departments, with opportunities ranging from working with CU Athletic’s Sports Nutrition department to the University’s Presidential Communications Office. Nine different athletic programs were represented by last semester’s cohort, with track and field and rowing leading the way, as the programs had eight and six members, respectively. A contingent of 21 mentors helped the group interns maximize their time throughout the fall semester.
“I am honored to have had the pleasure to work with such an amazing cohort,” said Robin Bradley, a Graduate Assistant within the Student-Athlete Development staff. “They were all dedicated, hard-working, and driven individuals. Each intern was able to gain valuable workplace experiences during a difficult time. They pushed themselves further than they thought and excelled.”
Each intern participated in five professional development sessions throughout the semester, including an end-of-semester presentation in which each intern evaluated and reflected upon their experience throughout the fall.
Last fall’s cohort was selected from a record-setting number of applicants, as 50 student-athletes applied for one of the coveted intern spots.
This spring’s cohort will consist of 21 student-athletes representing eight sports. Nine student-athletes will be returning from the fall at the request of their previous sites.
Clemson’s student-athletes are able to make their transition into careers after sport thanks to ONE Clemson, an organization with the Clemson Alumni Association that serves as a donor to help fund the department’s student-athlete UPIC opportunities.
