Mitchell Internship (and Fandom) Led to Working with WNBA Team
Longtime Connecticut Sun fan Kilian Okech ’25 joined the team for the summer as a community relations ambassador. In his internship role, he works with the organization that is part of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).
The sport management major, who played on the Mitchell men’s basketball team, said, “When it came time to find an internship, I already had the idea to work with the Connecticut Sun.”
Kilian worked with Paul Dunn in the Integrative Career Development Office to secure the internship.
“Thanks to his connections, I was able to apply and get a response quickly,” Kilian said.
Tasks on Game Day
Kilian attends every home game at Mohegan Sun and handles other aspects of his work remotely. On game day he arrives in the morning to work in the office and arena before the game. Pre-game tasks include helping to prospect leads for groups to attend games. He also assists with “seat notes,” envelopes containing special offers that are placed at seats around the arena.
In addition, Kilian observes office calls about ticket sales and other questions. At game time, he helps fans at a concessions table or booth. He said he uses the Mitchell Abilities, especially diversity/global perspectives and social interaction, to effectively interact with the broad mix of fans.
When he transferred as a sophomore to Mitchell, Kilian was drawn to the college for a variety of reasons. He liked the opportunity to play basketball, Mitchell’s waterfront location, and its campus and residence halls. He said his Mitchell advisor supported him in helping transfer past credits to be on track to graduate.
Future Plans
Through his internship Kilian has a close-up and behind-the-scenes look at a professional basketball organization.
Looking to the future, Kilian said, “My internship has inspired me to continue going after a career in the front office at a sports organization. Mitchell has good internship options for students. The great help I received from Paul Dunn and my peers at the Sun have prepared me and given me the valuable experience that I need to take the next step.”
Kilian plans to pursue a master’s degree in sport management.
