As part of Hispanic Heritage Month, D.C. United teamed up with Southern New Hampshire University to host a job shadow experience for local students as part of MLS’ Rompe Las Barreras (Break Through the Barriers) program.
The goal of Rompe Las Barrerras is to provide Hispanic students with valuable real-world work experience to help motivate and advance career development beyond post-graduation.
On Wednesday, Oct. 10, students from Annandale High School were invited to get an inside look at the day-to-day operations of D.C. United. The group heard from United General Manager Dave Kasper, and took part in breakout sessions with club representatives from game operations, corporate partnerships, ticket sales, customer management, digital media and the team's technical department.
The students capped the day by hearing from D.C. United defender Steven Birnbaum, who spoke to them about the importance of education and his path to becoming an MLS player.
“What an amazing opportunity for these students to see the business side of a sports team and consider future careers,” said Meredith Hedrick, an English as a Second Language teacher at Annandale High School. “More importantly, the experience really emphasized the importance of working hard, building relationships and pursuing a career that you love!”
The Rompe Las Barreras experience will conclude this Saturday when the 10 students are recognized on field at halftime for their participation in the program during United’s match against FC Dallas.
