by Stefania Markowicz
My time with Curley & Pynn as an intern has come to an end, so I’d like to offer some tips for students or recent graduates looking to land a fabulous internship (hopefully this one!).
- Personalize your online profiles – and keep them clean.
I guarantee employers will “Google” your name during the application process, so make sure that your online profiles are clean and informative. And, after you land the internship or job, keep updating your online presence. Your profiles should be an authentic display of your character both in and out of the office.
- Try something outside your comfort zone.
Prior to joining the C&P team, I was sure I never wanted to work at an agency. Silly me. This was, in part, because I was nervous that I would be overwhelmed with work and deadlines. But nerves are good – a sign that what you are doing is important. Turns out, I really enjoyed the agency environment. In just four months, I was exposed to a broad range of essential PR skills, from writing and research to media outreach, and those skills were applied in several different PR sectors, from high tech to tourism. So, challenge yourself. Walk the edge. Diversify. Only then, will you succeed.
- Pay attention to the details.
C&P juggles many client projects, which is why efficiency is important. Before submitting them to your supervisor, make sure first drafts are as close to final as possible. That means fact-checking your information and triple-checking your grammar and punctuation. The same applies to internship or job application materials – it’s not a great reflection of your skills if your resume and cover letter are full of typos.
- Go above and beyond.
Whether you’re assigned a project at work or an assignment at school, always give 101 percent. That extra 1 percent is a testament to your effort, dedication and passion, and will set you apart when applying to top internships and jobs.
- Network. Network. Network.
Those co-workers and colleagues who were impressed with your work? Yeah, they’re going to be the people recommending you for the next opportunity. While you might have the qualifications, nothing beats the recommendation of a former supervisor to help you land the job. Leverage your network of school and internship contacts to learn more about possible opportunities. The PR industry in Orlando is a small world.
These tips have served me well in securing five internships along the way to pursuing my bachelor’s degree in advertising and public relations from the University of Central Florida. As my journey continues with just two more semesters to complete, the next step is to determine which career path I’ll pursue.
After experiencing this internship program, C&P might just be part of my path.
The last four months I’ve spent at C&P have exceeded all my expectations. I’m leaving this internship as a better communicator, all because of the incredible (and quirky) team here.
Taking Aim 