Rocky Point Golf Course, beautifully situated in the woods of Essex, MD, offers a scenic golf escape with stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay across various holes. Whether it be a group of recreational golfers or a larger tournament with hundreds of competitive players, this course is a favorite among many, providing a mix of challenge and charm with its array of water hazards and bunkers scattered around the course.
Over the summer I was tasked with maintaining these bunkers and water traps during my internship opportunity with the Turf-Grass Management team on course. This was an experience that immensely furthered my knowledge of Agricultural Business Management, and allowed me to apply much of what I learned over the past two years at the Institute of Applied Agriculture (IAA).
My internship duties began early each morning, setting the course before the first golfers arrived. I was responsible for a variety of tasks, from adjusting cups and flags to clearing and watering greens, all of which were crucial to maintaining the course’s excellent conditions. My Superintendent used to always tell me “Nothing goes unnoticed,” and that really stuck with me. No matter if it was a wrapper/branch on the ground, or a tiny dead spot on the green, every little detail on the course mattered. It was our job to notice these small imperfections, and then fix them.
Post these morning duties, my tasks generally shifted to more specific projects. These projects required multiple days and more people to complete. Some examples included bunker refurbishment, tree removals, placing cement on cart paths, planting flowers at the clubhouse, or even replacing the entrance fence. Everything moved very smoothly on the course, thanks to the wonderful superintendents. I was also able to shadow their day-to-day workload, where I gained immense insight into just how much goes into maintaining a golf course.
My time at Rocky Point has been extremely educational and exposed me to the elaborate nature of golf course management. Working with the Turf-Grass Management Team I acquired a diverse set of skills and experience, contributing heavily to the course maintenance, and also my professional growth. The experience gained during my internship has not only prepared me for a potential career in this field but also instilled a deep appreciation for the complexity and beauty of managing a golf facility. This internship has been a wonderful experience, confirming my passion for the golf industry, and also developing my skills to further advance in my career.
