she’s back for the second year, we asked “why?”

Our 2023 interns are in full swing on their summer project: Target USA CUP, but there is not another that has been here as much as Sam. She is here for her second year in a row and some of the the “full-timers” wanted to get the scoop on what made her come back for Target USA CUP?

Check out why Sam came back to target usa cup!

Sam Lackmann is currently a student at St. Catherine University (St. Kate’s) in St. Paul, Minnesota. She is projected to graduate in Spring of 2024 with a major in communication studies and double minor in integrated marketing communications and design as well as leadership. Outside of school she plays NCAA hockey, is apart of the student athlete advisory committee, and part of the group who started the chapter of The Hidden Opponent at St. Kate’s! Here’s our interview with her!

Q: Intern position last year and brief job description?

A: Volunteers & Registration Intern: Last year I was the volunteers and registration intern, AND it was my first ever Target USA CUP! I was in charge of recruiting and scheduling volunteers for Target USA CUP. Specifically, scheduling field managing shifts and making sure we had enough volunteers each day. It was certainly a challenging task to do, but the everyone in the Field Services tent made sure to give me a helping hand. The days were long, but I had a lot of fun, it was definitely an experience I will never forget!

In terms of registration, I connected with team managers and made sure each player had all required forms ready for team check-in. At team check-in, I assisted in the process with checking in those teams who still had outstanding paperwork or payments.

Q: Interns position this year and brief job description?

A: This year, I am the General Marketing Intern! I was very excited to receive this position since it a career I could see myself pursuing after graduation.

With my job, I work on sending out emails to NSC and Target USA CUP customers to recruit for tournaments and events. Prior to USA CUP I sent out the Midweek Buzz to inform teams about what is happening on campus! This summer, I’ve been writing a lot for the blog which I have been enjoying. Also, during tournament weekends/week, I get to work a little bit in content with photography and social media!

Q: Why did you choose to intern with NSC again?

A: At the end of my internship last year, I knew I wanted to come back if given the opportunity because I had such a great time being Annie Juergens’ intern! The work culture is uplifting and positive, where it makes for such a fun environment to work, where work doesn’t exactly feel like work all of the time. When I received an email from Kelli inviting me back, it was an easy yes. However, I wanted to learn something different that would relate more to what I am studying at school. Luckily, the marketing position was open, and I am so glad I took it!

Q: Dream job and why?

A: I’m not exactly sure what my dream job is or what I am looking for post-graduation. All I know is I want to stay in athletics since sports have always been a huge part of my life. Eventually, I think I’d like to be Sports Information/Communications Director at a college or pro level. However, I’ve always had a passion for writing, so journalism is something I would like to explore as well!

Q: Favorite thing about USA Cup?

A: Since this is my second year working Target USA CUP, I think my favorite thing is connecting with the people I met last year! I met so many people from all over the world, it is great to see them again and catch up. I also really enjoy, and am excited for, Opening Ceremonies! It is an unreal experience seeing the world come together in one place. Even though I’ve never played soccer, it’s still such a once in a lifetime experience to be apart of!