Bruce MacLellan has been such a strong advocate for paid internships that his leadership (and the leadership of a few other enlightened PR leaders) has created a sea change in this area. Most of my students now find paid internships. This wasn't the case five years ago.
I fully support the occasional unpaid learning opportunity. A good example is is an agency that recently asked us if we could find a few student volunteers to help them stuff gift bags and set up for an event. In return, the students would get some beauty products. This was a great opportunity for my students -- one afternoon, and they get a behind the scenes look at how a big event comes together. And, importantly, it was optional. No one had to go. (For the record -- there were more than enough volunteers in a few short minutes after the email went out.)
Internships, on the other hand, are not optional. Students need to complete an internship to graduate. And I don't know any students who can afford to work an entire summer for free.
The students we send out on internship are close to graduation and come with some useful skills. And yes, the time they spend interning is a vital part of their education. What they learn in a real workplace simply cannot be taught in a classroom, no matter how hard we try.
I would like to sincerely thank all the employers who take on interns. I know you have to spend time mentoring and teaching them. I appreciate what you do so much -- they are very different people after just a few short months with you!
If we want a strong industry filled with smart, creative people, we need to create space for them. Paid internships are one way to create those spaces. I am very grateful that so many employers realize this, and are providing amazing paid opportunities.
Our CPRS members Bruce MacLellan, APR, FCPRS and Adnan Bashir wrote this piece last year for the Toronto Star, outlining the importance of paid internships in the #publicrelations industry, and their invaluable role in not only enriching our profession but also expanding the #talent pipeline.
Read more at this link here: https://lnkd.in/gMhVVBxH
Proof Strategies Canadian Public Relations Society
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