Senior Project Highlight Series: Esha Patel ’23
Esha Patel ’23 joined the Philadelphia Phillies organization for her Senior Project. During the four weeks, she worked with almost all of the departments that comprise a professional sports team – from business analytics, who monitor ballpark revenue while the game is being played, to the grounds keeping crew, who ensure that the infield and outfield are to the players’ preferences. In addition to joining various departments, Esha assisted with events the team hosted throughout the month including “Bocce at the Ballpark” with Special Olympics Philadelphia, Weather Education Day with NBC10 News, volunteering at the Philabundance Food Bank, and much more community service.
Esha reflected, “Through this program, I learned three main things:
- There are so many things that make up a professional sports team, which means there is truly a place for everyone. You do not have to know the stats of every pitcher in Major League Baseball to work in business analytics, you just have to know how to excel in your department.
- Internships are key. Every single person that I met started as an intern somewhere in the organization. As long as you give a job your fullest attention, your efforts will not go unnoticed by the right people.
- Put yourself out there. The worst that could happen is that they say no.”
During the month of May, seniors engage in off-campus pre-professional or service projects. These projects provide opportunities to explore interests that may lead to a career. Students gain hands-on experience and self-knowledge, which serves as a gentle transition from classes to the professional world. Enjoy a peak into a few of this year’s Senior Projects.