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U SPORTS sits down with each of its interns this semester in our new interview series “Getting to know…”
- Name: Natasha Cyrille
- School: Ryerson University
- Program: Sport Media
- Internship position: Social Media
- Hometown: Scarborough, Ont.
1. What attracted you to Ryerson and your program?
In my Grade 12 Sociology of Sport class, my teacher told us about this cool, new program at Ryerson. What attracted me was the various occupational opportunities that came with this program that educate you in sport marketing, journalism, business, live television and various other aspects that truly encompass sport and media.
2. Why were you interested in interning at U SPORTS?
I had previously been a part of the U SPORTS Correspondent Program for the past two seasons. What I enjoyed about that program was connecting with student-athletes, coaches, and parents around the country to tell some of the amazing stories that are in university sport. When I was looking for an internship, I wanted a place that would offer a hands-on, practical experience that would push me in different ways. I knew U SPORTS would give me those opportunities and growth that I needed.
3. What are your key learnings from your experience at U SPORTS?
My key learnings is that teamwork is essential to any organization. While that may seem straightforward, working with schools, sponsors, partners and outside organizations requires cohesive teamwork between different departments to ensure that things run smoothly. Working under the communications team was a prime example of understanding the wants/needs of the marketing department and working with other departments to achieve the common goal.
4. Any memorable moments over the course of your internship?
I think one of my most memorable moments from this semester with U SPORTS was experiencing the various National Championships from behind the scenes. Assisting my supervisor and posting graphics I made on a national sports platform was awesome to experience.
5. What is one piece of advice you can give to someone interested in joining U SPORTS?
I would say, understand that this internship will provide you with a hands-on-experience. Make sure you’re ready to work!
6. Why did you choose to pursue a career in sports and what is your dream job?
I believe sports offer a platform for so many different things: social issues, storytelling, and change in society. I wanted to be a part of that. My dream job? I’ve actually always considered joining the Canadian Armed Forces and working overseas. But now, I believe I’d like to work in volleyball or rugby and if I could travel that’d be great!
7. If you could sit down with one person in the sports industry (athlete, coach, manager or professional), who would it be? Why? What would you talk about?
Jemele Hill. I think she’s an incredible broadcaster and analyst and I would love to just talk sports, life and culture with her. I think she’s so well connected within the sports industry as well as the black community, I feel like it’d be a great conversation.
8. After joining U SPORTS and gaining a better understanding of what we do, how would you describe the organization and the culture at the national office?
I believe the culture at U SPORTS is one of inclusion and teamwork. The different departments work well together and I believe that it’s a great place to be.
9. What do you enjoy doing when you’re away from your internship and school?
I enjoy going to the gym and grabbing half-price wings on Tuesday nights!
10. What is your most memorable sports moment?
In Grade 11, I got the opportunity to go play rugby in Japan with my high school team after winning OFSAA provincials. The ability to play sport and travel was such an amazing experience.
The objective of the U SPORTS Internship program is to provide students currently enrolled in collegiate / university programs with concrete experience of what it is like to work in the Canadian sport industry.
To apply, click here.