Accounting co-op experiences revolve around CPA firms and large corporations. For the select few, they also include sporting businesses. In Boston, working for the local professional baseball team, the Red Sox, is a coveted prize. Accounting concentrator, Michael Sonnendecker (2013), worked for the Boston Red Sox from August of 2010 until April 2011. He worked with vendors to convert them to accept electronic payments, saving the Red Sox $70,000 annually, and worked extensively in accounts payable.
Michael said the atmosphere on Yawkey Way made it exciting to come to work every day. “The people were great and the work had some challenges, but the benefits of working for the Red Sox organization were wonderful.” Michael’s office was right inside Fenway Park and provided him the opportunity to attend any game. He also took batting practice on the field and caught fly balls in the outfield the day after the end of the 2010 season. He met Danny Ainge, President of the Boston Celtics, the day the Celtics played softball at Fenway Park. He even rubbed elbows with Hollywood celebrities, Ben Afflek, Blake Lively, and Matt Damon during the red carpet premiere of “The Town”, a movie filmed in and around Fenway Park.
“I think my favorite memory of that co-op was sitting in the seat behind third base during the movie premiere and having everyone in attendance cheer as soon as we saw our office (Fenway Park) come on screen. I also enjoyed the simplicity of coming and going from the historic park every day and the all-around excitement and devotion that the staff had every day. That may never happen again in my lifetime. I treasure the experience and hope others get the same opportunity.” After graduation, Michael is interested in pursuing both his MSA and CPA. He is very interested in working with one of the international accounting firms upon completion of his education. He is well on his way. He recently accepted a position with KPMG in Boston for his third and final co-op.