Public Relations & Communications Internship - Spring 2022
Internship: Public Relations & Communications
Season: Spring 2022
Location: Hybrid
Application Deadline: Applications accepted until position filled.
Internship Overview:
Interns work directly with the External Affairs and Marketing staff to implement daily media relations, internal and external communications projects, events and activities that help position Shedd as a top cultural attraction, as well as an established leader in animal care, education, conservation and science.
You will gain real-world experience working with media and influencers as part of a non-profit public relations team and utilize Shedd Aquarium resources to grow as a young professional through formal and informal trainings as well as mentorship opportunities. We value our interns, and they are considered part of the team.
Learning Objectives:
- Build skills in writing materials in a clear, concise, and compelling format for various audiences, including both internal and external. Demonstrate skills and continued growth by developing at least three press releases before completion of internship.
- Apply the latest tools and technologies appropriate for the communications professions to measure the success of PR efforts, with an emphasis on operating various PR software, such as Cision and Trendkite. Showcase ability to build media lists and monitoring reports by mid-point evaluation.
- Demonstrate an understanding of how to build relationships with media, influencers, external partners, the public and more – as well as the ability to analyze the success of PR initiatives and shifting perceptions.
Responsibilities & Projects:
- Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values
- Develop a deep understanding of Shedd Aquarium’s animal care, welfare and conservation initiatives.
- Willingness to interact with both internal and external audiences via telephone or in-person. Updates managers accordingly.
- Assist with media pitching and returning media requests.
- Assist in drafting press releases, pitches and other communications assets (fact sheets, key messages, etc.)
- Assist staff with internal communication needs.
- Partner with staff to coordinate logistics for media interview opportunities and events.
- Produce media monitoring reports to showcase how Shedd is perceived in the news and compile secured media placements by using PR analytics software.
- Use media contact database to pull media lists or add to existing lists for press announcements.
- Participate in team meetings and brainstorms to support communication goals.
- Support the greater External Affairs & Marketing team on general projects.
- Other projects as assigned
Qualifications:
Fields of Interest:
- Public relations
- Journalism
- Communications
- Marketing
Skills/Characteristics:
- Excellent written and verbal communications skills
- Baseline knowledge about AP style
- Organizational skills
- Detail-oriented
- Ability to work independently
- Experience with Microsoft Office Suite preferred
- Dependable and able to work with a variety of audiences
- Have a high school diploma or GED.
Technology Requirements:
- Devices that allow for video conferencing and internet access
- Reliable internet connection
Time Commitment:
- Minimum of 16 hours and maximum of 24 hours per week
- Minimum of 2 months
- Set schedule based on intern availability.
We welcome applications from all levels of experience, including those seeking career exploration or changes, gap year students, freshmen, sophomores, and those seeking first internships.
We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, Veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.
If you need a reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know. In your application, please feel free to select which pronouns you use (For example – she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs).