Axiom Fitness in Idaho has established a scholarship for kinesiology students who intern at the Treasure Valley Axiom Fitness locations. The internship exposes students to the highest level of personal fitness training which fulfills a critical requirement in their educational and professional training.
“Axiom’s relationship with Boise State started about five years ago and we have spent much of the past three to four years working on this internship program” said JP Green, president of Axiom Fitness. “It’s beneficial for both organizations: the internship provides enrichment for the students and also helps us find qualified fitness professionals, which is really tough to do. It’s an essential relationship because Boise State is providing great talent and expertise specifically in the areas where we have the greatest need.”
“The internship gives the student real-life experience. It’s as simple as that. There is a large gap between textbook knowledge and practical experience,” said Mike Hildebrandt, area director of fitness for Axiom Fitness and 2009 graduate from Boise State’s Kinesiology program. “Also, students elevate current employees due to their expectations to receive more education, training, and guidance. Having the students around brings focus and drive for our full-time trainers to not only perform at their best, but also to share with the student why this is a great career and the benefit it brings to members.”
Hildebrandt is a perfect example of how valuable an internship can be – he was once an intern at Axiom while studying Kinesiology at Boise State. After graduating he went on to become Axiom’s Area Director of Fitness.
“The internship at Axiom allowed me to connect the dots that I was learning in class,” said Hildebrandt. “It was exciting to learn something in class and be able to pass that information along to clients that same evening.”
The scholarship will allow students to explore their potential in fitness to the fullest with less worry about how to pay for their education.
“We want students to understand that there is a viable career option in fitness and hope that more will consider it, and Axiom is one of the best organizations anywhere to start and continue that career,” added Hildebrandt.
“We are excited to provide this opportunity and strengthen the relationship with Boise State,” said Green.