2 answers
Alex
Student
Grove City
1
Question
Updated
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What's the best way for a Communications major (2nd year) to land their first internship when most positions ask for previous experience?
I'm a sophomore Communications major with interests in Public Relations. I don't have corporate internship experience yet, but I'm eager to start building my resume. Any guidance on where to look or how to stand out would really help!
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2 answers
Gustavo Asman
I work as Creative Director at a strategy and communications firm that works with nonprofits
11
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Gustavo’s Answer
Hi Alex, tough one, imo. I think a lot in public relations has to do more with who you are, how you behave and the contacts you can make (more than a particularly strong resume) It can help of course, but I think moving around, going to conferences, meeting people, going to events, it can all help.
If within PR you plan to work on a creative side of things like design, etc then yeah, I think a portfolio more than a resume can go a long way. Do you have any classes like that to showcase that kind of stuff? If you plan to work more as a strategist, I guess showing work, thinking, projects or anything that can bring things to life can complement your resume.
And tough to say, but I see it myself, I think a lot of young folks like you are challenged cause you cannot start your career at the top of at a midlevel role, and roles to start or be an intern in some places are respected, in a few are paid (not great pay usually) and in some cases, and as we move into 2026 even more, I see intern and entry level roles replaced by AI... so at the very least, I would suggest you explore what you can do or learn some about how to work and complement what you can bring to the table + AI, because the way I see it, sooner or later you may need to either use it often, convince someone to hire you by what you can do together, or both. Best of luck!
If within PR you plan to work on a creative side of things like design, etc then yeah, I think a portfolio more than a resume can go a long way. Do you have any classes like that to showcase that kind of stuff? If you plan to work more as a strategist, I guess showing work, thinking, projects or anything that can bring things to life can complement your resume.
And tough to say, but I see it myself, I think a lot of young folks like you are challenged cause you cannot start your career at the top of at a midlevel role, and roles to start or be an intern in some places are respected, in a few are paid (not great pay usually) and in some cases, and as we move into 2026 even more, I see intern and entry level roles replaced by AI... so at the very least, I would suggest you explore what you can do or learn some about how to work and complement what you can bring to the table + AI, because the way I see it, sooner or later you may need to either use it often, convince someone to hire you by what you can do together, or both. Best of luck!
Lindsay Hayhurst
Senior Creative Project Manager
6
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Lindsay’s Answer
A good place to find internships in communications is at local advertising agencies. That's what I did after graduating with a degree in advertising and communications from UF a few years back. I completed three internships at different agencies. Internships at these type places don't require previous experience. I never understood why an internship would request that. So silly. Hope this helps!