Reagan James honed her technical writing and interpersonal communication skills as a remote intern with a PR firm.
How did you get your internship?
I secured my public relations internship through networking. I actively reached out to my professional connections, expressing my interest in finding an internship. Given my uncertainty about my career path I was exploring a range of different internships, and I was lucky enough to connect with someone who owns a reputable PR firm. This connection led to a wonderful opportunity to have an interview with the firm's owners, ultimately resulting in me successfully securing the internship!
What kind of work did you do throughout your internship experience?
I had lots of different kinds of responsibilities throughout my internship experience. For example, I drafted press releases, organized company files, recorded meeting notes, and handled other administration responsibilities to support my coworkers throughout the day. All of the work I did was new to me and has truly helped me grow as a professional.
What was your favorite part of your internship?
The most satisfying part of my internship was experiencing moments when I submitted a draft for a release or a press/social hit, and it was sent through with no edits required from my supervisors before being sent out. This was meaningful for me as it emphasized the growth and adaptability I had achieved during the internship. Witnessing my work being considered excellent without the need for edits was not only professionally affirming but also evidence of the progress I made in a relatively short period. Of course, I still encountered multiple rounds of edits on various other projects. However, these instances of approval served as milestones, reinforcing my sense of accomplishment and the valuable knowledge I gained throughout my internship.
What did you find challenging about your internship?
An interesting aspect of my situation was the remote nature of my internship. The dynamic nature of public relations involves extensive client outreach in-person, an aspect I couldn't fully engage in because of my remote status. For instance, when one of our clients launched a new restaurant, I felt a bit of regret in not being able to experience it firsthand because of my remote position. There were also moments when my workflow was interrupted as I had to reach out to coworkers for help and then wait for responses.
Despite this limitation, the flexibility afforded by remote work proved invaluable, especially as a full-time student. Also, navigating remote interactions allowed me to develop and refine my professional voice in a comfortable and supportive environment.
What impact has this internship experience had on you?
My internship experience has had an immense impact on me, inspiring a newfound sense of self-confidence. In the initial week, I struggled with fear and frustration, feeling overwhelmed by unfamiliar tasks and the slowness of my task completion. Documents I submitted would often return with multiple changes, adding to my worry. Looking back, I realize I’ve had incredible personal and professional growth. The journey was one of learning and development, and I now recognize that feeling scared at the start was a natural part of the transformative internship experience. I've ended my internship with increased self-assurance and understanding that an internship is a dynamic process that encourages continual learning and growth!
What advice do you have for other students as they begin their internship?
Some advice I have for other students beginning their internship is to find a coworker you can trust! Throughout my internship, I often struggled with uncertainties about my work and formatting. Having a coworker I could rely on was crucial. I would reach out to her for guidance, ask questions, and even request examples of her past work. This not only provided me with valuable insights and assistance but also boosted my confidence when submitting work to my supervisors. Building a supportive relationship with a coworker can be a game-changer, offering a sense of assurance and mentorship as you navigate the challenges of your new internship!