HSU Students Discover the Sports Industry Ecosystem via Internship Experience
In the context of the rapidly growing sports industry and expanding career opportunities, students demand not only a strong academic foundation but also direct engagement with real industry environments. Moreover, guided by an experiential learning-oriented training philosophy, Hoa Sen University consistently provides opportunities for students to move beyond the classroom and learn from businesses as well as professional sports organizations.
Recently, under the guidance of Dr. Phan Danh Na, students majoring in Sports Economics at Hoa Sen University engaged in practical internships at various businesses and professional sports organizations. The experience gave them a broader understanding of the sports industry as a modern economic sector where management, services, communication, commerce, and customer experience are closely interconnected.
Development of a Modern Golf Course Business Model
Recently, Sports Economics students at Hoa Sen University (HSU) engaged in hands-on field trips at businesses and professional sports organizations, where Dr. Phan Danh Na, lecturer at the Hoa Sen Sports Center, provided guidance throughout the experience.
The journey began at Sonadezi Chau Duc Golf Course, where students explored the operational model of a professional golf course. As one of the fastest-growing segments of the sports industry in Viet Nam, golf is closely connected with premium services, tourism, and customer experience.
Through the field trip and practical exchanges, students explored service management processes, operational models, customer care strategies, and methods of generating commercial value within the sports sector. Furthermore, the experience enabled them to better understand how theoretical knowledge can be applied in a real-world operating environment.
Insights into the Operations of a Professional Football Club
Continuing their journey, HSU students visited the Ho Chi Minh City Football Club at Ba Ria Stadium. Through firsthand observation and interaction, students explored how a professional football club operates, gaining insights into organizational management, team operations, media activities, and brand-building strategies.
The experience provided students with valuable insights into the broader sports ecosystem, highlighting how management, communication, business operations, and community engagement work together to support athletic competition.
In particular, attending the match between Truong Tuoi Dong Nai Club and Ho Chi Minh City Club enabled students to observe the practical organization and operation of a professional sporting event. From operational coordination and spectator experience to media activities and fan engagement, every aspect became a “lively lesson”, helping students connect theory with practice and gain deeper insights into the contemporary sports industry.
Real-World Experience for Future Career Preparation
Beyond strengthening their professional knowledge, the internship experience enables students to cultivate professional thinking, enhance their observational skills, and bridge the gap between theory and practice.
At HSU, Sports Economics students learn not only through classroom instruction but also through direct exposure to the sports industry via practical activities, field trips, internships, and networking opportunities with industry professionals. Such experiences equip them with the management skills, adaptability, and confidence needed to pursue successful careers in the sports sector.
