Grady InternViews: Frankie Barnes

Briefly describe your internship and your responsibilities: 

My primary job as the events programming intern is to assist with coordinating all aspects of large scale entertainment events that take place at Barclays Center. Our department oversees everything from executing contracts with talent to working with the venue operations team to set up the arena.

What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned so far?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned this summer is how valuable informational interviews are. I was able to block off time with some full-time employees to ask about their roles and to learn what they do. This helped me figure out if their specific role is something I see myself doing or if it is something that doesn’t really appeal to me in my area of interest.

How will this role guide your future career path?

This internship opportunity opened my eyes to a whole new area of entertainment I had never really considered before. I found that I really enjoy it and would consider pursuing another internship or full-time role in that direction specifically.

What advice would you give to other students who are looking to pursue similar opportunities?

Be open to doing anything in your career interest field! While the job title may not be your dream role right off the bat, you inevitably will learn something from that position that will help you in the future when you do land your dream job!

What has been your favorite part about your internship so far?

My favorite part of my internship so far has been being able to see the large-scale events we are working on come to life and take place. Being able to see all of the behind the scenes work and what all needs to happen to put on an event like the NBA Draft, made me appreciate being at the event that much more!

How have your classes at Grady prepared you for this internship?

My classes at Grady have prepared me for my internship by giving me confidence in my professional skills. When I have a task at work, I know that Grady has given me the skills I need to succeed and to trust that I know what I am doing.