📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Part-Time Strategic Communications Intern
🔹 Company: Penn State University
🔹 Location: Penn State University Park, PA
🔹 Job Type: Part-Time
🔹 Category: Education
🔹 Date Posted: April 3, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Supporting event promotion and storytelling for the Bellisario College
- Collaborating with the strategic communications team to create and maintain brand materials
- Assisting with the creation of promotional items and publications
- Developing skills in strategic communications, photography, social media, video, and writing
ASSUMPTION: This internship is designed for students interested in strategic communications and related fields, providing hands-on experience and the opportunity to develop skills while supporting the Bellisario College's communications efforts.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Assist with event support and storytelling to promote the Bellisario College
✅ Complete independent assignments to chronicle events with photography or social media
✅ Collaborate with members of the Bellisario College strategic communications staff to create and maintain brand materials and promotional items
✅ Provide additional support and insight related to brochures, digital signage, fliers, posters, and other publications
ASSUMPTION: The intern will work closely with the strategic communications team, contributing to various projects and gaining experience in a professional communications environment.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Current Penn State student (not previously employed at the university) seeking employment with Penn State
Experience: No previous experience required, but experience with Adobe software (InDesign, Photoshop) is a plus
Required Skills:
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Deadline and detail-oriented with the ability to multitask
- Self-motivated and able to take direction and constructive criticism
- Conceptual thinker, able to take rough strategy and mold it into aesthetically-pleasing design
- Basic understanding of writing and editing related to marketing, and familiarity with photography
Preferred Skills:
- Experience shooting or editing video
ASSUMPTION: While specific experience is not required, a strong foundation in communication skills and a willingness to learn are essential for this role.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $10 - $12 per hour (based on industry standards for part-time internships in the education sector)
Benefits:
- Gain practical experience in strategic communications
- Work alongside a professional communications team
- Potential to develop skills in photography, social media, video, and writing
Working Hours: To be determined, typical range 5-10 hours per week
ASSUMPTION: The salary range is an estimate based on industry standards for part-time internships in the education sector. Actual compensation may vary based on the university's compensation policies.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Education, specifically higher education and research
Company Size: Large (1,001-5,000 employees)
Founded: 1855 (Penn State University), 1945 (Applied Research Laboratory)
Company Description:
- Penn State University is a public research university with a strong focus on education, research, and service
- The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State is a designated University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), supporting national security, economic competitiveness, and quality of life through education, scientific discovery, technology demonstration, and transition to application
Company Specialties:
- Research and development in support of national priorities
- Education and workforce development
- Scientific discovery and innovation
Company Website: arl.psu.edu
ASSUMPTION: Penn State University and the Applied Research Laboratory are well-established institutions with a strong reputation in their respective fields.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Entry-level internship, providing valuable experience for students interested in strategic communications and related fields
Reporting Structure: The intern will report directly to the strategic communications team within the Bellisario College
Work Arrangement: Part-time, on-site, with a typical weekly commitment of 5-10 hours
Growth Opportunities:
- Develop skills in strategic communications, photography, social media, video, and writing
- Gain practical experience working with a professional communications team
- Potential for future employment opportunities within the university
ASSUMPTION: This internship offers a unique opportunity for students to gain practical experience and develop skills in strategic communications while supporting the Bellisario College's communications efforts.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: University campus office
Office Location(s): Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications, Penn State University Park, PA
Geographic Context:
- The university is located in the central region of Pennsylvania, with a suburban campus setting
- The area offers a mix of urban and rural environments, with easy access to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions
- The university is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all its forms
Work Schedule: To be determined, with a typical weekly commitment of 5-10 hours
ASSUMPTION: The university provides a supportive and inclusive work environment, with a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Submit application through the provided link
- Complete the application process for external applicants (if not a current employee or student)
- Participate in an interview with the strategic communications team
Key Assessment Areas:
- Communication skills (verbal and written)
- Creativity and conceptual thinking
- Attention to detail and multitasking abilities
- Familiarity with Adobe software (InDesign, Photoshop) and other relevant tools
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences
- Demonstrate your enthusiasm for strategic communications and willingness to learn
- Provide examples of your work, if applicable (e.g., photography, writing, design)
ATS Keywords: Strategic Communications, Intern, Part-Time, Adobe, InDesign, Photoshop, Marketing, Event Support, Branding, Promotional Items, Publications
ASSUMPTION: The application process may vary depending on the university's policies and the specific needs of the strategic communications team.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop)
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Social media platforms (e.g., Twitter, Instagram, Facebook)
- Video editing software (if applicable)
ASSUMPTION: The intern will be expected to learn and utilize various tools and technologies relevant to strategic communications and marketing.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Integrity
- Respect
- Responsibility
- Discovery
- Excellence
Work Style:
- Collaborative and team-oriented
- Creative and innovative
- Attention to detail and quality-focused
- Adaptable and responsive to change
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you share Penn State University's commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability?
- Are you comfortable working in a collaborative and team-oriented environment?
- Do you have a strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work?
ASSUMPTION: Penn State University values a diverse and inclusive work environment, and applicants should be prepared to demonstrate their commitment to these principles.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Balancing internship responsibilities with academic coursework
- Adapting to a professional work environment as a student
- Potential for varying workloads and project demands
- Navigating a large university campus and finding relevant resources
ASSUMPTION: While these challenges may arise, the internship offers valuable experience and support to help interns succeed in their role.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This internship is unique in its focus on strategic communications within the context of a higher education institution
- Similar roles may be found in marketing, communications, or public relations agencies, as well as other universities and colleges
- Career paths may include roles in strategic communications, marketing, public relations, or related fields
ASSUMPTION: While this internship is unique, it offers valuable experience and skills that can be applied to a wide range of careers in strategic communications and related fields.
📝 Sample Projects
- Creating promotional materials for Bellisario College events
- Developing social media campaigns to raise awareness of college programs and initiatives
- Assisting with the production of college publications, such as newsletters or magazines
ASSUMPTION: The specific projects assigned to the intern will depend on the strategic communications team's needs and the intern's skills and interests.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the key priorities for this internship role?
- How does this internship fit into the overall strategic communications efforts of the Bellisario College?
- What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within this role?
- How does the strategic communications team support and collaborate with other departments within the college?
- What are the expectations for work hours and scheduling flexibility?
ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful questions during the interview demonstrates your interest in the role and commitment to success.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through the provided link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences
- Prepare examples of your work, if applicable (e.g., photography, writing, design)
- Follow up with the hiring manager within one week of submitting your application
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
