I’ve always went for the opportunities that people tried to talk me out of. After applying for numerous internships during the fall semester, I decided that I was going to intern for a PR company. I didn’t have any idea of where, but I knew that I would make it happen.
Staring at my phone over Christmas break I wondered who had called me from a number that was unknown. The next step was to check my voicemail, so of course I did. I got that call! The call to take a writing test (mind you I’m a senior and I had never taken one of these intimidating tests before) at a firm in my hometown for the spring.
Interning for a Public Relations agency was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Over my college career, I’ve had the opportunity to intern at some cool places as a journalism and public relations senior, but this one was it. I felt it.
A typical day at my current internship involves coming into the firm and collecting clips. Depending on the client, this process can usually take up to an hour. Clips are where most of the money comes from. Interns and coordinators are constantly looking for their clients in the media, whether it’s in the newspaper, blog, radio or news station.
After collecting clips, I’m either assisting the graphic designer with helping decide logos for a client and fulfilling any assignments given to me such as writing health and fitness articles for a client (which I’ve done a lot of) or interview employees, as well as contact vendors for upcoming events for clients.
During my current internship, I’ve chosen to take a pro-active roll other than sitting behind the desk. I’ve leaped feet first in attending client meetings and event coordinating. I’ve also made sure that I’ve asked to attend press conferences as well as pitch stories.
Here are some beneficial things that I’ve learned over the past summers that would be helpful for future interns.
Ask questions.
Not only are you interning to gain experience and complete the work assigned, but if you’ve finished your tasks always ask if there is anything else that you can do to help. Whether that’s sending an e-mail to the people you are working with or helping out other interns, always have something to work on. I have made the mistake in the past of just sitting at my desk once I’ve completed an assignment because I was afraid of bugging others. Ask to go to that meeting with that client or go on an interview with that reporter.
Take the initiative.
Don’t be afraid to push the envelope and go far and beyond your job. I was given this advice from a news director who had been in the business over 20 years. Don’t be afraid to bring in your own story ideas and give your feedback. As a student, your internship wants to know new and innovative ideas.
Accuracy and speed.
Make sure you meet project deadlines. Don’t procrastinate, get the job done. Make sure you have double checked all info, rather that’s interview answers to questions, data entry, or anything entered into the computer.
Maintain a positive attitude.
Make your work environment something that others enjoy. Don’t participate in office gossip and remember you’re an intern. Be willing to do whatever, whenever. If that’s taking work home with you over the break or weekend, show that employer that they need you.
Ask for recommendation letters.
Building your resume is key but having evidence to support your work ethic and history speaks volumes to future employers and schools.