Why students should do as many internships as possible.
This past March I was lucky enough to explore the New York City realm of public relations with Professor Quigley and other motivated Boston University seniors. We met with everyone from CEO’s to entry level employees, and from each individual, we learned the same piece of advice. Experience is everything when applying for a job.
There are some students who focus solely on papers, exams, and most of all grades, and fail to notice the reality of the world outside of school. While doing well and securing a place at the top of the class is one of my highest priorities, I believe having an internship in my field of choice should also be one of my highest priorities. When I’m not at school, I’m at work, and vice versa. Still being a student myself, I am by no means an expert on internship advice. However, as my second internship came to an end last week, I began to reflect on my past internship experiences. Without having an internship, I don’t know if I could even be sure public relations is the right track for me. What I gain from my classes is beyond valuable, but there is only so much to learn in a classroom setting. My public relations classes gave me the foundation for my career, but only through applying this knowledge to real world campaigns have I finally learned what it’s like to live and breathe public relations. I whole heartedly believe the only way to truly understand and fully experience public relations is to throw yourself into an internship.
This brings me back to my most memorable tip from the big apple. Remember it: Experience is everything when applying for a job. Most communications schools require students to complete at least one internship before graduation. I’m trying to complete as many internships as I can before committing to a full time job, and I start my third on Monday. Each internship helps me to narrow down where I hope to be after donning my cap and gown. In-house or an agency? Large, medium, or small agency? Consumer, corporate, cause marketing, investor relations, or entertainment? The possibilities are endless.
What do you think? If you’re a public relations professional, do you prefer students who weigh heavily on academics or experience?
