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 Profile
of Katie Szokoly, Intern, Office of Institutional Advancement, University
of Pittsburgh, 4/07
Photo by Alexis Yakemovic, PPW/Writing Center Publicity Intern
Story by Katie Szokoly
When I registered
for a PPW internship, I was excited that I'd have the opportunity
to work in a professional work environment. I hoped to gain valuable
experience that would prepare me for life after graduation. I met
with Jasmine and Megan to discuss an internship opportunity and
learned that I would work with both the public relations and the
corporate and foundation relations departments.
The staff at the Office of Institutional Advancement welcomed me
to their team on my first day. Everyone was so nice, and I felt
comfortable asking others for help when I needed it.
Throughout the semester, I saw my skills as a writer improve. Although
I'd had practice writing to different audiences before my internship,
I felt much more confident adopting the voice of Institutional Advancement
and the University of Pittsburgh and applying it my articles for
the World of Giving.
It was difficult at first to simultaneously juggle all of my classes
and the multiple assignments at my internship. But now, I confidently
say that I can multi-task. After learning how to better manage my
time and organize my notes, I noticed that my writing also became
more organized, concise, and direct.
My mentors at my internship site invited me to several meetings
throughout the semester, including the weekly public relations team
meeting. When I first attended these meetings, I was timid and did
not participate, fearing I might ask a stupid question or suggest
a dumb idea. As the semester continued, I felt comfortable voicing
my opinions and participating in brainstorming efforts. I learned
how important team work is in a professional environment, and that
there really is no such thing as a "stupid question."
At times, I felt overwhelmed when given an assignment without any
real guidelines. I was nervous I would do the assignment wrong.
Not only did this internship experience help me overcome my fear
of asking questions, but it also taught me how to be more independent.
Although I did ask questions when necessary, I realized that sometimes
I need to figure things out on my own.
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Looking back on my internship experience, I feel that I received
a lot of exposure to the PR industry. I wrote articles for the World
of Giving, developed a marketing plan for a Public Relations
Society of America event, and read several newspapers and newsletters
about PR practices. I worked with the corporate and foundation relations
department on a couple of grant and proposal projects, but I wish
that I would have learned more about the grant writing process.
I benefited so much from this internship. I enhanced my writing
skills, learned how to be a team player, and experienced first-hand
how to work in a professional setting. I feel better equipped to
enter the real world. Because of this internship, I am very interested
in pursuing a career in public relations.
To interested future interns, I offer a few pieces of advice. Don't
be afraid to ask questions. Attend and participate in staff meetings.
Take advantage of every opportunity and every assignment that is
thrown your way. You will end up as a stronger writer, thinker,
and candidate for future job opportunities.
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