Summer Well Spent: From Classroom to Ballpark

This summer, Tatum Shepherd ’28 is spending her days behind the scenes with the Iowa Cubs as a stadium operations intern. Working with the maintenance team, she helps prepare the stadium each day so fans can enjoy the ultimate game-day experience.

“Each day is a little different, but I help prepare the stadium for games and events, assist with facility maintenance projects and help with game-day operations to help create a great experience for fans,” Shepherd said.

Her biggest takeaway? Success on game day depends on teamwork, with every member of the crew playing an essential role.

“I’ve learned how much teamwork goes into every game and event. It’s cool to see how every department works together behind the scenes to create a great experience for fans,” she said.

Shepherd credits her Simpson experience with preparing her for the internship, both in and out of the classroom. A double major in sport administration and psychology, she has built a strong foundation through coursework while gaining hands-on leadership experience across campus. In addition to competing on the softball team, Shepherd serves on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, works in the athletic communications office and is vice president of the Sports Administration Club.

“My sport administration classes have given me a strong understanding of the sports industry, while my psychology courses have strengthened my communication and leadership skills,” she said.

For Shepherd, the internship has been more than a summer experience; it has been an opportunity to apply what she has learned at Simpson while developing the skills and confidence needed to be career-ready.

“It’s given me valuable hands-on experience, helped me build professional connections and allowed me to explore different career paths within sports.”