This business analytics major is pouring the foundation for a future in sports analytics

When asked what advice he would give to students interested in internships, rising George Mason University senior Dominic Jones said, "don't limit yourself."

It's advice he's already following. This summer, the business analytics major in the Costello College of Business interned for Bognet Construction, focusing on project management.

Jones wants to work in sports analytics or analytics within consulting. But much like he advises, he's approaching his studies with an open mind. "Since you can do anything with business, I didn't want to home in on one sector just yet," he said.

When he met the Bognet Construction team at one of George Mason's career fairs, he saw an opportunity to broaden his horizons. "I don't have a background in construction," he said, "but the Bognet team was excited for me to learn and try. They wanted me to grow throughout each week."

His internship responsibilities include project management, supporting engineers, architects, and other project managers to ensure the build is on track. Despite this being a new field for him, his skills from business analytics have been able to transfer. "Being detail-oriented is really important in both," he said. "Every single little detail matters, because one error can build into a much bigger problem."

And just as Jones is growing into this role, he said the best part of the internship has been watching something grow from a blank space. "Seeing all the different subcontractors come and go, how the plans are communicated to them, how they get their jobs done: There's a lot that goes into good construction, and it's cool to see."

Jones is no stranger to teamwork. A member of the intramural basketball team, he understands the importance of maximizing strengths and communicating clearly and effectively. Working in construction, he said, has helped him further develop that skill. "There's so many moving parts and people; everyone has their own viewpoint and focus area. Learning how to communicate and work with everyone's individual skills and strengths is a skill I'll take into my classes and the workforce."

As Jones prepares to start his senior year at George Mason, he's coming back to campus ready to take advantage of all the possibilities. "The more things you go to, the more opportunities you have to meet people and the chance to get the career you want," he said. "Go to events, join clubs, and try new avenues. You never know what opportunities might teach you that will make you stand out."