January 23, 2024

Student Perspectives: Diving Deep into Data and Analytics at Madison Square Garden

MS Business Analytics ‘24 student, Sasha Richardson, shared with the GCMC her experience as an intern at Madison Square Garden.

What has been one of the most important things you’ve learned at your internship?

In my Madison Square Garden (MSG) internship, a pivotal learning experience was exploring data engineering tools like Talend and Data Build Tool (DBT). Utilizing Talend, an Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) tool, I am honing skills in designing and implementing seamless data integration processes and optimizing data flow for timely insights. Similarly, exploring an analytics engineering tool like DBT has enhanced my ability to work on the transformation layer of data models, ensuring clean datasets for analytical purposes. This hands-on exposure has not only elevated my technical proficiency but also contributed significantly to the efficiency of MSG's data platform, emphasizing the crucial role of robust data engineering in the broader data ecosystem.

How have you approached networking at your internship? Share any one specific example that has been impactful for you.

Networking is a cornerstone of my ongoing professional development. A particularly impactful encounter was a casual 1:1 meeting with the Chief Data and Analytics Officer. This laid-back setting allowed me to ask questions and seek career advice in a more personal context. The insight shared during this meeting was invaluable, offering perspectives on career trajectories within the organization and the broader industry. Establishing this connection has not only provided guidance but has also fostered a mentorship that extends beyond immediate project collaborations, contributing significantly to my professional growth and understanding of the dynamic landscape within MSG. This has encouraged me to continue seeking further opportunities to meet 1:1 with other members of the company both within and outside of my department.

What has been your biggest contribution to your team at your internship? Why?

During the initial weeks of my internship, a notable contribution has been the resolution of a critical data inconsistency issue. Beyond ensuring the accuracy of reporting for business analytics, this effort highlighted the tangible impact of effective data management on the daily operations at MSG. It underscored the pivotal role interns play in contributing substantively to organizational success, showcasing the real-world importance of attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

After this experience, what would you like to learn next?

As my internship at MSG progresses, my interest in the intricate realms of data analytics and business intelligence deepens. Building upon the foundational experiences gained, I aspire to explore further the intricacies of data-driven insights and strategic decision-making. The dynamic nature of MSG's operations provides a solid foundation for enhancing my skills in these areas. Post-internship, my goal is to engage in more specialized learning opportunities, attend workshops, and seek additional certifications to solidify my expertise in data analytics and business intelligence. This next phase of learning aligns with the ever-evolving landscape of data management and analytics, ensuring that I stay at the forefront of industry advancements.

For students having a difficult time finding an internship, what is one piece of advice you would give them?

To fellow students navigating the challenges of securing an internship, I extend a piece of advice rooted in my ongoing journey: persistence. The path may be riddled with hurdles, but each rejection is a step closer to the right opportunity. Tailoring your skills, continuously refining your resume, and leveraging the resources provided by Zicklin's Graduate Career Management Center are integral steps in this process. In the face of adversity, maintain resilience and focus, recognizing that the right internship awaits—customized for your unique skills and aspirations.

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