Meaghan Murray '24
🏠 Scituate, MA
📚 Recreation Management and Policy (R&P) - Program and Event Management
💼 VIP Artist Liaison Intern @ Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, 📍Gilford, NH
Finding My Niche in the Recreation Management and Policy Program
When I first came to UNH in 2020, I never imagined I'd end up working behind the scenes at major concerts. I discovered the Recreation Management and Policy Program halfway through my freshman year, and its event management concentration immediately clicked with me.
The program offers specific classes about concert management and festival operations, taught by experienced professors. I've always loved making people happy and providing customer service, and event management combines all of that.
My Experience as a VIP Artist Liaison Intern
My responsibilities revolve around coordinating and executing VIP experiences for concertgoers. This includes:
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Drafting venue event orders
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Meeting with tour representatives
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Coordinating VIP events like meet & greets, sound checks, and backstage tours
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Managing check-ins for VIP guests
From Hootie and the Blowfish to Lainey Wilson, I've had the chance to work with amazing artists. Seeing the excitement on guests' faces when they meet their favorite artists makes even the most chaotic days worthwhile.
Lessons in Event Management
This internship has taught me the importance of adaptability and problem-solving. In the fast-paced world of live events, things don't always go as planned. I've learned to stay calm under pressure and find creative solutions to unexpected challenges.
For example, during a recent Kidz Bop show, a miscommunication upset a grandmother and her special needs granddaughter. I located them after the show and brought them to the front of the meet-and-greet line, providing ample time with the performers in a calmer setting.
I've also gained valuable insights into the touring industry. By asking questions and observing the tour staff, I've gotten a clearer picture of what it might be like to work on tour with an artist – a potential career goal of mine.
Putting UNH Learning into Practice
My classes in the Recreation Management and Policy Program have been invaluable, especially in risk management, event logistics, and accessibility. My involvement with SCOPE (Student Committee on Popular Entertainment) at UNH was also instrumental in preparing me for this internship. As the hospitality director, I managed backstage operations and coordinated with artists and their teams.
Advice for Future Interns
Be selective: It's okay to wait for the right opportunity. I initially planned to do an internship last summer but decided to wait when I didn't find something I was passionate about.
What Comes After UNH
As I approach the end of my internship, I'm excited about the busy schedule ahead, including multi-day shows with performances by Chris Stapleton and Luke Bryan. Whether I end up working in concert venues, hotels, or even on tour with an artist, I'm confident that my experiences at UNH and the Bank of NH Pavilion have prepared me well for a career in event management.
