Overwatch League franchise Washington Justice has entered into a collegiate partnership with Winchester-based Shenandoah University.
The partnership will see the Justice provide internships and learning opportunities for students.
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The partnership will commence at the beginning of 2021 and will end in the Summer of 2022. Internships will focus on a range of sectors, including business operations, sponsorships, marketing, and team operations.
Dr. Joey Gawrysiak, Director of Esports at Shenandoah University, commented on the partnership in a release: “This is an incredible opportunity for our students and Shenandoah to work with a first-class esports organisation like the Washington Justice.
“This partnership will prepare our students to work in the esports industry with real-world experiences and networking opportunities. The Washington Justice and their incredible staff recognise the opportunities esports brings students beyond gaming and we couldn’t be more excited about what this partnership will bring to both Shenandoah University and the Justice. This is just another step we are taking to grow our esports programme at SU and what sets us apart from other programmes.”
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Alongside internship opportunities, the collaboration will see Washington Justice and Shenandoah University host joint career development events to enable students to gain ‘invaluable experience’ if they wish to pursue a career in esports.
Grant Paranjape, Vice President of Esports Business at Washington Justice, also spoke on the collaboration: “Through this partnership, we aim to provide Shenandoah students with real, tangible industry experience, so they can be well-equipped for their first career following graduation. We have had the unique privilege of interacting with many of Shenandoah’s students already, and by combining the excellent education they are receiving in the classroom with hands-on experience at a major esports franchise, we believe we can truly offer students a best in-class opportunity to equip themselves for a successful career in the esports industry.”
Esports Insider says: Any partnership that is designed to cultivate talent is certainly a positive. The partnership will be a great opportunity for aspiring students that are wanting to further their understanding on various aspects of the esports industry.