July 26, 2007
Business student interning with NBA's Knicks
Caption follows story
This summer, Steve Caulkins of Rock Island, a junior in SIUC College of Business and Administration, is interning in the community relations department of the New York Knicks organization.
"I love it!" said Caulkins, a marketing major. "I could definitely do this for the rest of my life. It is one of those jobs that doesn't seem like work. It is very rewarding."
In his role, Caulkins deals with the Knicks' philanthropic projects. "For example, if the Red Cross is hosting a fundraiser, it would contact me about any items that we could send to help them," he said.
Caulkins learned of the position while calling three NBA teams to inquire about jobs. "I figured I had nothing to lose. What better way to enjoy a career than to do what you love?" he said. His persistence paid off when he landed the Knicks internship.
Caulkins credits the college's Placement Center for giving him the confidence to apply for the dream job. "Placement Director Donna Margolis helped me with my previous externship and offered any resources she could to help me out," Caulkins said.
Margolis said that her office has helped dozens of College of Business and Administration students find prestigious internships this summer. "We are very proud of Steve and his accomplishment. Even more exciting, he is one of many SIU students making their mark in the business world," she said.
Caulkins hopes to eventually find full-time work in community relations for an NBA team because his "two biggest passions are helping others and basketball," he said.