Intern Diaries: Grace A.
Interning at JMG has been a very unique experience. This was my first internship and I had no clue what to expect but on my first day I was pleased with the work and atmosphere presented to me. I now feel like I know a lot about Public Relations and how to successfully handle clients.
I was always haunted by the thought of becoming an intern and doing nothing but getting someone coffee, or taking messages all day. Being at JMG required a lot of research and great responsibility. I was trusted to write several pitches and send them out to editors from high end magazines, this made me stronger as a writer and helped me build new connections. On many occasions I was able to do some work outside like taking pictures for their instagram or even testing out client products.
Jenna and Cristen made me feel at home. The two of them are very relatable, understanding and could not have been better mentors to me on this journey. I’ve learned better communications skills, writing skills, and I’ve even learned how to use social platforms that I didn’t know were apart of the PR world. I am more than pleased that they didn’t keep me inside of my comfort zone. They gave me tasks and entrusted me with many tricky projects, and because of this I feel that I am so much stronger. I was shocked but extremely thrilled that they felt so confident in me.
I always felt that lifestyle and entertainment industries were perfect for me because it aligns with my passions hobbies- and being at JMG has definitely solidified my love. Seeing what JMG’s clients stood for and brought to the table inspired me to stick with the path that I’m on. Although I still have a long journey ahead of me, PR is something I’m glad to have experienced and want to learn about even more.
Of the many things I’ve learned as an intern, my biggest take aways are:
Challenge yourself. The projects given to me were not always short and sweet, but why would you want short and sweet? Challenging yourself makes you build and grow- with guidance and direction I was able to overcome new things and not only that, but do it well, too.
Do what you love. As Jenna’s intern, I learned a lot about her and how she came to be a CEO. She inspired me to lead my own life; that if I know I can do better, I have to do anything I can to do so. In her case, she became a CEO- and I know that if I’m not fully satisfied in my future workplace, I have the option to make myself happy and look for purpose elsewhere.
It’s never just about you. Owning a public relations firm means it’s all about the clients. Helping other people to reach their goals is the true reward you get out of this. It’s never about the money or praise, but it’s about the people’s lives that you are effecting.
I want to see people prosper from my guidance, just as Jenna and Cristen have done for me. Coming out of this internship I feel ready to continue my journey on a path of communications and help others along the way!
Grace A.
