My internship doing PR for Super Bowl LIV

Name: Kimberly Aldunate

Major: Public relations, advertising, and applied communication with a concentration in social media and e-marketing analytics

Where did you intern: Miami Super Bowl Host Committee

What did you do there? I worked in the communications and marketing department.

How did you get your internship?
By networking – I attended one of their events back in November 2018 and I remained up to date with all their ongoing projects.

What projects did you work on?
As an intern, I assisted the communications team in a variety of projects from updating coverage reports to event calendars. I provided assistance in press conferences, hosted committee events and assembled influencer packages. I also helped other departments with their special projects.

What was the coolest thing that happened during your internship?
The coolest part would have to be all the amazing people I was able to meet from politicians to artists, athletes, and journalists. This entire internship was a one-of-a-kind experience!

What did you like most about your experience?
Being able to work in one of the most important sporting events in the world, Super Bowl LIV was just a dream come true! I loved seeing how the three counties Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach worked together as a team to make this the best Super Bowl!

I also enjoyed learning about all the amazing projects the Miami Super Bowl Host Committee was working on with the NFL like the Business Connect Program, Super Bowl LIVE, Ocean to Everglades initiative, an anti-sex trafficking campaign with The Women’s Fund, and more.

What did you learn about yourself?
I learned that I am a very proactive and determined person. I am always trying to improve myself.

How did you expand your professional network?
I’m a person who loves learning and connecting with people, but sometimes I can be shy at first. However, I decided to get out of my comfort zone to meet everyone in the office and learn what they do. From doing this, I learned that the entire staff of MSBHC are the most accomplished professionals in their fields; it was truly an honor to have worked with such amazing people.

I also took every opportunity to attend the events we had and introduce myself to everyone and have meaningful conversations. My professional network has increased, and I am grateful for everyone who I have met along the way.

How did it help you prove yourself in the “real world”?
This internship has given me tons of insights on how public relations works in the sports industry from media relations, community partnerships, corporate social media,and campaigns.

What advice do you have for those beginning the internship process?
My first tip is to research everything you can about the company you are interested in interning for and learn about the projects they have worked on.

My second tip—and probably the most important one that I recommend—is to network as much as you can in person and online. You never know who you will meet and that can become your potential employer.

Final tip: You will never “be ready” so say yes to every opportunity and learn as you go. I am also available to help if you need advice you can always reach me on LinkedIn.