Let Me Tell You About My Summer Internship
Name: Josh Bradley
Major: Horticulture (Turfgrass Management Option)
Year: Junior
Hometown/State: Fort Dodge, IA
Company/Organization: Pinehurst No. 5
Title: Golf Course Maintenance Intern
Location: Pinehurst, NC
Describe your internship responsibilities:
I worked nearly every day of the summer learning how to operate many
different types of equipment ranging from aerators to forklifts to a
Bobcat. I also learned how to check greens for wilt from the heat of
the day and was usually in charge of six to nine greens depending on
the temperature of the day. The superintendents provided us with a
variety of experiences around the course such as mowing one day and
then raking bunkers the next day.
What did you enjoy most about this internship?
The thing I enjoyed most about the internship was the people I worked
with. My supervisors were very patient with me, teaching me how to
operate many machines and providing me with lots of advice on how to do
the job at hand properly. Also, the other interns at Pinehurst were
very fun and I felt right at home.
How has this experience impacted your future career plans?
This internship has dramatically increased my knowledge on golf course
operations as well as provided me with valuable experience with
warm-season turf species. I learned more than I expected and I have a
lot more confidence now in pursuing a career as a golf course
superintendent. Also, having references from Pinehurst is a nice
addition to my resume and will help in the future finding a job within
the industry.
What resources did you utilize to obtain this internship?
Jim Sedrel, who is an Iowa State Alum with a turf management degree,
spoke at an Iowa State Turf Club meeting looking for summer interns.
Jim is the assistant superintendent for course No. 5 and I told him I
was interested in obtaining an internship at Pinehurst. He wrote my
name down and gave me the contact information of the head
superintendent on course No. 5. I sent a cover letter and resume and
they provided me with more information about the internship.
Everything looked good and so I decided to spend my summer in
Pinehurst.
What advice would you offer to other students seeking similar internships?
Work hard every day whether the job is fun or not! Working on a course
such as Pinehurst, every job is important and if you display a sound
work ethic, your bosses will notice. Do not complain about a job plus
if you stay busy, the day goes by a lot faster.
