Finding a Healthy Balance: Managerial Considerations Regarding the Work–Life Interface of Interns and Graduate Assistants Working in Collegiate Sport

Abstract

Craig Johnson is an associate athletic director for marketing and promotions in an athletic department at the collegiate level. Through conversation, he has recently realized that the graduate students working in his department as interns and graduate assistants feel that balancing work, school, and a personal life is impossible. As a mentor for working in sport, as well as their direct manager, he feels something must be done to assist these graduate students in managing the work–life interface but is unsure where to start. Drawing from research in sport management and from the general management literature, the case gives insight into the issues, outcomes, and theories that inform the work–life interface. Undergraduate and graduate students in human resource management or organizational behaviour courses who work through this case will have an opportunity to contemplate, discuss, and develop strategies for managing the issues surrounding balancing work and a personal life.

This case was prepared for inclusion in Sage Business Cases primarily as a basis for classroom discussion or self-study, and is not meant to illustrate either effective or ineffective management styles. Nothing herein shall be deemed to be an endorsement of any kind. This case is for scholarly, educational, or personal use only within your university, and cannot be forwarded outside the university or used for other commercial purposes.

2024 Sage Publications, Inc. All Rights Reserved

You are not authorized to view Teaching Notes. Please contact your librarian for instructor access or sign in to your existing instructor profile.

Resources

Appendix A: Sample Graduate Student Assistant Marketing Position

Position Summary: The Athletic Department Marketing Graduate Assistantship provides an opportunity for an individual to gain marketing experience at an NCAA school by supporting the associate athletic director of marketing and promotions in day-to-day operations and related duties.

Essential Functions: Lead efforts for marketing plans for assigned sports that maximize revenue, increase attendance, and enhance the fan experience. Plan, lead, and provide support for fan-related events and activities, marketing and promotion plans, and execute game day presentation for assigned sports. Willingness to operate videoboard, music, public address, mascot duties, etc. when necessary. Identify new and innovative concepts that will engage new and existing fans and students, resulting in an excellent fan experience. Work and contribute within a team environment. Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Minimum Experience Required: 2 years or more of related experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Must be a graduate student; effective communication (verbal and written), organization and human relations skills; ability to work well in a diverse environment; proficiency with computer, social networking, and Microsoft Office applications software including word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.

Preferred Experience: Proficiency with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and other creative products.

Compensation: Half tuition reimbursement and a monthly stipend ranging from $500–$900 depending on performance and qualifications.

Appendix B: Sample Undergraduate Marketing Internship Position

Position Summary: The Athletic Department Marketing Graduate Assistantship provides an opportunity for an individual to gain marketing experience at an NCAA school by supporting the associate athletic director of marketing and promotions in day-to-day operations and related duties.

Essential Functions: Lead efforts for marketing plans for assigned sports that maximize revenue, increase attendance, and enhance fan experience. Plan, lead, and provide support for fan-related events and activities, marketing and promotion plans, and execute game day presentation for assigned sports. Willingness to operate videoboard, music, public address, mascot duties, etc. when necessary. Identify new and innovative concepts that will engage new and existing fans and students, resulting in an excellent fan experience. Work and contribute within a team environment. Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Minimum Experience Required: 1 year or more of related experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Must be an undergraduate or a graduate student; effective communication (verbal and written), organization and human relations skills; ability to work well in a diverse environment; proficiency with computer, social networking, and Microsoft Office applications software including word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. Must be able and willing to work nights, weekends, and events for 20+ hours per week.

Preferred Experience: Proficiency with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and other creative products.

Compensation: Unpaid, no tuition reimbursement.

This case was prepared for inclusion in Sage Business Cases primarily as a basis for classroom discussion or self-study, and is not meant to illustrate either effective or ineffective management styles. Nothing herein shall be deemed to be an endorsement of any kind. This case is for scholarly, educational, or personal use only within your university, and cannot be forwarded outside the university or used for other commercial purposes.

2024 Sage Publications, Inc. All Rights Reserved

locked icon

Sign in to access this content

Get a 30 day FREE TRIAL

  • Watch videos from a variety of sources bringing classroom topics to life
  • Read modern, diverse business cases
  • Explore hundreds of books and reference titles