By Taylor Morgan
This summer I had the opportunity to intern with Sonnhalter as their public relations intern. To say the knowledge and experience I have gained over the course of this internship is invaluable would be an understatement. As a communications and professional writing double major at Miami University, I have spent countless hours studying the craft of writing, public relations and marketing, but being able to apply these skills in the real-world has taken my abilities to a new level.
My first assignment as the PR intern was to write a blog about myself, this I would come to find out was the first of many, many different writing pieces I would be assigned. Whether it be narrative pieces such as covering social media marketing trends for Sonnhalter or the manufacturing process of bronze for NIBCO, I learned how to focus on a brands narrative and voice when writing. Alongside blogs, I also gained experience in writing press releases, news releases, feature pieces, personnel releases and more. Being able to hone my professional writing skills along with my knowledge of AP style will without-a-doubt benefit me as I make my way into the communications industry.
An aspect of this internship that I had not had much experience with prior to this summer was the use of media lists in public relations. Using programs such as Muck Rack, I truly learned the importance of creating and maintaining relationships with media professionals and media outlets. I also gained insight into the depth of research that public relations, marketing and advertising professionals need to do in order to most effectively represent their client.
Aside from the public relations skills I have gained from this internship, I also gained valuable experience from working remotely. Since 2020, the workforce has seen a significant increase in hybrid and remote work environments which require self-discipline, adaptability and comfort with technology, all of which I have been able to exercise over the length of this internship.
To wrap up, the skills and experiences I have gained from this internship will be beneficial both inside and outside of the workforce. While working with an amazing team at Sonnhalter, I have been given an inside look at the public relations, marketing and communications world, specifically that of the trades industry. This is an experience I will truly be forever grateful for.
