Jerry S. Rawls College of Business sophomore Samuel Alessio, a marketing major, traded the quiet stretches of West Texas for the energy and excitement of Houston – joining Houston Dynamo Football Club (Houston Dynamo FC) as an integrated marketing intern. Alessio was one of eight interns to join Houston Dynamo FC, Houston Dash, and Shell Energy Stadium for a revamped internship program in summer 2025.

Melanie McBride, vice president of Human Resources, says the experience is intentionally designed to reflect the organization’s values and long-term commitment to student development.

“This internship program is an extension of our culture – supportive, innovative, and team-oriented,” McBride said. “Students like Sam bring energy and perspective that elevate our work, and in return we want to give them the tools and mentorship to thrive wherever their careers take them.”

Alessio spent 12 weeks working at the heart of one of the largest sports markets in the country. The Katy, Texas, native played an important role in bringing the Club’s 713 H-Town Celebration to life, helping execute a series of citywide activations that showcased Houston’s culture, pride, and diversity.

Leaders like Hilary Hoffman, director of Marketing and Fan Engagement, say Alessio grew not only as a sports marketer, but as a young professional preparing for the next step in his career.

“Sam brought so much energy and heart to our team this summer,” Hoffman said. “He was dependable, thoughtful, and always willing to go above and beyond. Seeing how much he grew in such a short time reminded us why programs like this matter. These are the type of experiences that shape the next generation of sports professionals.”

Building on that growth, Alessio’s internship became more than a professional milestone – his experience in the environment and the lessons he carried from it were a turning point that reshaped his professional ambitions and validated his leadership skills.

Q&A

Q: How did you discover the internship and how did it impact you?

Alessio: Landing the internship didn’t happen by accident. Long before the application even opened, I emailed the manager of the fan engagement department to learn more about the organization and what opportunities were available.

This internship shaped how I’m going to be for the rest of my career. On my last day, I walked out kind of sad. Getting to see the behind-the-scenes of the sport I love, in the city I love was unforgettable.

Q: What project or task was the most meaningful to you and why?

Alessio: One of the most memorable moments of my internship came through the Free Walls Project, a collaboration that transformed East Downtown into an outdoor gallery. I supported the rollout of seven Houston Dynamo × Free Walls murals; each one a vibrant reflection of Houston and the people who call it home. Whether brainstorming concepts or coordinating moving parts on the ground, I experienced firsthand how marketing campaigns take shape and how every detail contributes to engaging and cultivating community. Seeing how everything we worked on had an impact across the city felt special. Watching the organization’s creative minds collaborate taught me so much about how big projects come to life.

Q: In what ways did the Rawls College prepare you for this internship?

Alessio: Game days at Shell Energy Stadium offered another level of real-world learning. From assisting with fan activations to supporting club milestones like player recognitions, I saw how teamwork and adaptability came together. Every home game was an opportunity to apply what I learned at Rawls College in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

Q: What did you value most in your internship experience?

Alessio: I valued the mentorship and support within the organization the most. Leaders guided me through challenges, invited the interns into meaningful conversations, and encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone.

Q: What advice would you give to other students considering an internship?

Alessio: Build your skills early. Send the cold email and network as much as you can. Research the places you want to be and when the opportunity comes, say yes.

Looking for Internship Opportunities?

Students and employers interested in more information about internship opportunities should contact the Rawls College Career Management Center.

Internships at the Houston Dynamo FC will be available summer 2026.