Students head stateside for ‘transformative’ programme

A group of University of Sunderland students have embarked on an exciting journey to the United States to enhance their skills and boost employability.

Eight students from the university’s sports and business courses are participating in a management placement scheme with athletic teams at Westminster College in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania.

The summer programme, funded through the university’s international office, offers hands-on experience in sports management, designed to broaden students' knowledge and bolster their career prospects.

Christos Maragkoudakis, who studied Sports Coaching, said: “I wanted to participate in this programme because it is a great opportunity to be a part of an American football team in the US.

“I have been coaching football for just over two years now and it is my dream to move to the US full time and pursue that goal.”

Alina MacKenzie, who is studying Business and Management, added: “The scheme encompasses everything I do with my life. I’m a business management student and also a cheerleader and coach.

“Studying sports management in the USA will help me with my future career if I take the business or the sport route.

“Alongside studying sports management, I have been able to sit in on other classes of my choice. It has been interesting to learn the US system, and having studied business internationally will give me a competitive edge in my career.”

The partnership between Sunderland and Westminster College aims to facilitate international opportunities for students from both institutions, with students from the US having spent time in the UK earlier in the year.

Dr Jamie McMinn, vice president of academic affairs at Westminster College, said: "This partnership has created opportunities for Sunderland students to work with Westminster's business faculty and our athletic coaches both to learn more about management issues in sports and to apply their skills with actual teams.

“We greatly enjoyed hosting an exceptional cohort of Sunderland students this summer and look forward to future opportunities."

Lorraine Robertson, deputy director of international at the University of Sunderland’s international office also spoke of the ‘transformative’ experiences that the summer programme provides.

 “The University of Sunderland is committed to offering affordable and transformative international experiences that help students develop essential skills for their future careers.

“This initiative aims to support Sunderland students by providing them with unique study abroad opportunities.

“The University has a long-standing relationship with Westminster College and is excited to expand and strengthen this partnership through this new programme.”

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