Observation Guidelines

• We need students who want to learn, work, and enjoy the unique and demanding athletic environment of the internship practicums.  To be sure that you understand this environment, at least four observation hours are required. Please plan ahead and take note of all deadlines and rules listed below.
• Observation hours are also a time to be evaluated by the coaching staff for professionalism, interest, and communication skills within the gym environment. 
  • Helpful hint:  In addition to observing the practicum weight room setting, students completing observation hours give clinical faculty and staff insight. Students interested in becoming strength and conditioning interns at WSU will want to make this a good first impression in all communications and actions.

STEP 1:  Professional Documentation Needed Before Scheduling Observation Hours

• A. WSU Athletics reference questions, completed by three professional references: Strength and Conditioning Reference Form:   Your three references should be from adults who have supervised you in current/past activities (jobs, volunteering, sport coaches, teachers).  Other undergraduate students are not acceptable.
  • IMPORTANT:  To verify authenticity, references should email the completed form directly from their email address.  Forms collected and forwarded by student will not be accepted.
    • Have your references send an email with the completed form to the S&C email address: kines.scminor@wsu.edu
• B. CURRENT RESUME. Applicants should send a message from their WSU email to the S&C email address listed above. Include your preferred name, the names of your three references, and attach a file copy of your resume.

STEP 2:  How Observation Hours are Assigned

• Once ALL documentation is confirmed and reviewed you will be scheduled during times that fit around your responsibilities.
• The four observation hours take place during the announced week for that semester. You will be assigned early morning and afternoon hours so that you can see the general expectations of athletes and interns.
• Observation hours are required to be completed within the term you are applying for the minor.
• Due to facility limitations, all observation hours must be scheduled ahead of time, and is prioritized on a first come-first served basis.
• Remember, this is a working Division 1 weight room.  Confidentiality is a professional expectation.  You should not discuss the athletes you see and the workouts completed with others outside the facility.
• Please remember to review the observation hour questions prior to attending and feel free to take notes during your scheduled time.

How to fit in and show the coaches you are ready for the experience:  Expected Dress and Behavior while observing

• Observation hours provide candidates an opportunity to “shadow” professionals in a working collegiate weight room. It is meant to be an active process where you can observe working interns, team conditioning, practice coverage, ask questions, and etc. “Wall flowers” that just put in the time are missing out on invaluable opportunities to learn.
• The weight room is a professional facility; do not use your experience as an opportunity for social interaction or contact with student-athletes.
• To fully observe the flow of the environment and how the student interns interact with the coaches and athletes, you will be assigned reflection questions.  This will help you focus on the most impactful aspects to understand about the roles and responsibilities.
• Prove your dependability and professionalism.  Be early, stay engaged, be there the entire time, and communicate effectively both electronically and verbally.
• No cell phones or ear buds allowed.  There is an intern office where you will be allowed to put your belongings.
• Dress code:
  • Cougar apparel or clothes that are plain crimson, black, white and gray will be the only apparel allowed.
  • Other university, high school, or professional team clothing are not allowed.
  • No hats.
  • Clean, closed-toed athletic shoes ready for movement.  No sandals, boots, etc.