My internship in public relations


Name: Kristine Hernandez

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Major: Public relations with a minor in anthropology (Honors College)

Where you interned: National Voices for Equality, Education, and Enlightenment (NVEEE)

What did you do there? I was a public relations intern, however I did a lot more than write press releases. I assisted in reformatting the website; I recorded and edited video content; I carried out interviews; and attended some events/meetings that were hosted or involved with the organization.

How did your internship connect back to your coursework? It all came back to the foundational thinking of how can we gain a following or support with accurate and attractive information.My classes currently are focused on how to put out information effectively, both through writing and with media.

What was the coolest thing about your internship? The coolest thing was being able to know that I was doing something or producing material that was going to help someone who is going through a hard time in his or her life.

What did you like most about your experience? What I liked most was that the environment I was in was more-so relaxed, and allowed me to feel safe in learning and asking questions about my role. I was allowed to practice and learn while working through what I’ve learned in the classroom.

How did the position increase your professional confidence? My position allowed me to feel like I could contribute my opinion without looking dumb or unintelligent.

How did you expand your professional network? I finally got a LinkedIn as advised from my supervisor and fellow intern, and through it made connections with individuals who are associated with NVEEE (such as the Public Relations Firm ‘BryteBox’).

How did it help you prove yourself in the “real-world?” Carrying out a professional presentation of self, or completing tasks in a timely manner, have been some of the different ways I’ve been able to prove myself in the “real-world.”

How did you get your internship? I attained this internship through the Honors College. Isabel Green helped me tremendously in trying to find one that would fit my potential professional endeavors.

What advice do you have for those beginning the internship process? Look for an internship with persistence and humility.

Be persistent in finding one, and finding one that fits your schedule and professional dreams. Go about it with humility, whether that’s seeking help or asking those around you, or even coming upon an internship that doesn’t have everything you wanted. In the end, experience is experience, and who knows what doors your new experience will open.