As my internship at Maven Communications comes to an end, I find myself reflecting on how much I’ve learned and grown over the past semester. Entering as a Communication major with classroom knowledge about public relations, I didn’t fully grasp the depth of skills I would gain from a hands-on experience like this one. From mastering industry tools to understanding the art of relationship-building, my time at Maven has been invaluable.
Here’s what stood out the most during my internship:
Learning What You Can’t Get in a Classroom
While my courses laid the foundation for my understanding of communication strategies, my internship at Maven taught me skills I wouldn’t have encountered otherwise. Compiling media lists, conducting media audits, and writing media advisories became second nature by the end of my internship.
I also learned to use industry-specific tools like Meltwater for media monitoring and outreach, and TVEyes for tracking broadcast coverage. These platforms gave me a new appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that ensures successful public relations campaigns. Mastering these tools felt like gaining a secret PR toolkit I can carry into my future career.
PR is Built on Relationships – And Not Just with the Media
At Maven, I realized public relations isn’t just about creating compelling stories for clients; it’s about building authentic relationships with everyone you interact with. This includes clients, media professionals, and your team.
Participating in client meetings and media outreach efforts showed me how much of PR revolves around trust and effective communication. But it was the casual moments – brainstorming with colleagues or chatting during lunch – that made the biggest impression. The culture at Maven fostered collaboration and taught me that relationships built on mutual respect are the key to success.
No Task is “Just” a Task
Early on, I noticed how easy it was to view smaller assignments as simple tasks to check off my list. However, as I became more immersed in the work, I saw their true value.
For example, creating a detailed media list wasn’t just administrative work – it was the foundation for a successful media campaign. Media audits weren’t just research projects; they were opportunities to analyze trends and identify growth areas for clients. Understanding the purpose behind each task made me appreciate how even the smallest contributions play a critical role in the bigger picture.
Adaptability is Key in PR
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that PR is rarely predictable. A breaking news story can instantly shift priorities, and the next thing you know you’re spending all morning tracking coverage.
At Maven, I quickly learned to embrace the unexpected. Whether it was revising a media advisory hours before it was sent out or diving into a client’s coverage history, I became more confident in my ability to adapt and think on my feet.
Looking Ahead
As I prepare to graduate and take the next step in my career, I’m grateful for the tangible skills and professional growth I’ve gained at Maven. This internship taught me how to think critically, communicate effectively, and navigate the fast-paced world of public relations with confidence.
To future interns, my advice is simple: don’t underestimate the value of learning foundational skills like media monitoring or press material preparation. These tasks might not seem glamorous at first, but they’re the backbone of any successful PR strategy. More importantly, ask questions, take initiative, and embrace the process – you’ll walk away with more than you ever expected.
Thank you, Maven Communications, for an unforgettable experience!
Posted In Company, Maven Communications, Public Relations