Major(s): Communication and Journalism, with a concentration in Public Relations
Graduation Year: 2023
Hometown: Everett, Massachusetts
Internship: kglobal
Title: Research Associate Intern
Why are you studying Journalism, and how has the major prepared you for your internship?
I am studying Journalism because I enjoy writing pieces and sharing vital information that can reach multiple audiences. I decided to enter the Public Relations concentration after taking the Intro to PR course because I was excited at the prospect of working directly with brands and companies. The experience I've gained as a student journalist and an aspiring public relations professional has made me knowledgeable on how to communicate with multiple audiences. I feel that my journalism classes have prepared me fully to take on my first job after college.
How did you find your internship? What was the process like?
I first applied to SBS in D.C., an internship program based in D.C. that allows a certain number of students to go to D.C. and live there for the summer. Through development classes in preparation for D.C., I found a suitable internship for myself.
Please describe your internship experience. What were your job responsibilities?
During my internship as a research associate at kglobal, I helped with media monitoring, built media lists, participated in the recording and planning for podcasts, helped film content for clients, and worked on compiling relevant news for clients.
What was the greatest takeaway from your internship experience? What skills did you gain?
I learned the importance of media monitoring on multiple platforms and how to build media lists, record audio, film video content, pitch to journalists and podcast hosts, build newsletters and network! Being able to gain experience in the PR world and learn from my peers and mentors over the summer helped solidify that PR is for me.
What project were you most proud of at the end of your internship and why?
I had the opportunity to attend a Black Tech conference at the National Museum of African American History and Culture and helped create content for Norton. I had a chance to follow Hill Harper, the host of Norton's 5-Factor Authentication podcast, as he talked about his Black-owned digital wallet app, the Black Wall Street, and interviewed people in the industry. It was rewarding to film content, hold the camera and record audio content. I learned a lot that day.
How does the internship relate to your field of interest in Journalism? How has it influenced your long-term goals and career objectives?
As a public relations student, I needed work experience at a public relations agency. So, it was an exciting and fulfilling learning experience working at an agency that works with a wide range of clients.
What advice would you give to current students hoping to apply for the same internship in the future?
I recommend students go to the Career Development and Professional Connections office to have someone look over their resume and cover letter before considering applying for an internship.
Internship Spotlight: Shermarie Hyppolite [Q&A]
