2024 Interns: Here Are Three Ways to Thrive and Make an Impactful Impression

‘Tis the season for summer internship applications. By Spring, most internship-seeking college students or soon-to-be graduates have either secured a summer internship or are in the process of interviewing. I’ve had the pleasure of serving as a manager for MikeWorldWide’s internship program for the past three years and it’s quickly become one of the favorite parts of my role here. I’ve always enjoyed mentoring and coaching junior staff and MWW’s Summer Associate Program is no different. It’s incredibly rewarding seeing each person’s individual growth and increased confidence over the 10-week program – especially at the end when our summer associates develop and present an integrated PR plan that supports one of our current clients.  

During their first week of onboarding, the associates always ask, “What advice do you have for succeeding this summer?” Although the PR landscape has vastly changed since I first entered the workforce, my top three pieces of advice remain the same: 

1. Show That You Are Resourceful: The first step to success in PR is demonstrating  resourcefulness. Our days are always busy, and our work requires us to be nimble and solutions-oriented. But what separates the ‘good’ interns from the ‘great’ interns are the ones who go the extra mile, take initiative, and show proactive thinking. Optimize the tools and information you have access to before asking, “where is that document saved?” or “how do you spell the client’s name?”  
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes: You are here to learn, we know that! No one expects you to have it all figured it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, raise your hand for an assignment, or ask to join a brainstorm outside your immediate accounts. Curiosity is one of the core values we hold dear at MWW – and with that can come making mistakes. Fully embrace this and you will be amazed at what you learn.  
3. Become a Sponge: A fast-paced environment like public relations can be overwhelming – especially when you are first starting out. It is critical to absorb everything. Take copious notes, read the news, subscribe to newsletters, listen to how colleagues speak on client calls or when pitching reporters. It may seem simple, but these are the fundamentals that translate into best practices for client service.  

As with all new experiences, it’s important to enter an internship with an open mind and a ‘roll up your sleeves, ready to learn’ attitude. You will not only learn what you do like, but what you don’t like – and that’s just as important as you start to think about your career. Remember, the effort you put into the program will play a role in your overall success.  

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