Inside Summer Internships: Soccer Fun For All

Each year, hundreds of Simpson students gain internship experience in their fields of study. These internships provide essential real-world experience, often leading to exciting and rewarding career opportunities.

This summer, Brissa Valadez ‘26 is working as an operations intern at Des Moines Soccer Club (DMSC), a local organization that aims to make soccer accessible to children in the Des Moines metro. In her role, she manages many tasks, from marketing to meetings. “I assist in marketing efforts such as social media campaigns,” said Valadez. “I also assist the executive director with day-to-day operations such as checking athletes in, tracking registration numbers, and completing side tasks. I then attend in-person meetings with the board and DMSC staff.”

When asked how Simpson helped prepare her for the role, Valadez credited a number of her classes in management and administration as well as her internship preparation course. First, her courses helped set her up for success in her internship, and now, her internship is paving the way for success in her future career. “[The internship] has allowed me to build a strong network for future career opportunities, as well as bridging the gap for what I want my future career to be and look like.”

For now, Brissa will continue to enjoy her internship, helping athletes enjoy their time by discovering and playing soccer.