I was the first new media specialist intern for the office of web and new media, so my time here has been like a test drive for them.
And I like to think I was at least a Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
My experience
During my internship, I have been able to experience Missouri State like never before.
I was very surprised to see that I was given a lot of creative freedom. Whenever I spoke, they not only heard what I had to say, but really listened. So much so that whenever I had an idea for something, instead of turning it down or just nodding their head, they found ways to help me bring my projects to life.
Some of those projects included: Every Bear from Everywhere, which highlighted students and faculty about why they chose Missouri State, new segments for Missouri State Snapchat and creating social media calendars and campaigns for homecoming, to just name a few.
And now after all that, they are trying to replace me.
But no worries, it’s only because my time at Missouri State is coming to an end after 4.5 years. Yes, I took a victory lap because I just love this place so much.
So, what do you need to be?
Yourself.
Bring your personality to this position and put your touch on all things Missouri State. Besides that, you need to love social media and engaging with others, like enjoy using social media so much that you’re interested in pursuing a career in social media marketing.
As the new media specialist intern, you will get the chance to contribute to a variety of university projects.
- You’ll be writing blogs, using Snapchat to engage with MSU students, and even developing social media campaigns for university platforms including Missouri State Facebook and Twitter.
- They are also looking for versatile storytellers, so you’ll be able to write content for university blogs, edit photos and interview newsmakers.
- You’ll also receive the keys to MissouriState.edu. You’ll update photos, videos and text as needed on university websites.
What you will gain
A really great resume.
Besides that, you will gain valuable experience in real-world settings and walk away with several benefits:
- A professional portfolio that includes at least two social media campaigns, four blog posts and two visuals
- An insider’s access to best practices about social media, writing and website content development
- An opportunity to display skills in a professional setting, which will place the intern’s resume above their peers’
What are the qualifications?
A jacket.
No seriously, when it’s warm outside it’s like visiting the North Pole in here. No worries though, because in the winter, just leave that jacket at home because it gets nice and toasty and you won’t be needing it.
But really, here’s a list of the desired skills and experience they are looking for:
Education
Well first off, you have to actually go here, like be a student. If you’re pursuing a bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, public relations, journalism or related areas, that’s ideal.
Skills
You’re going to writing…like a lot, so it needs to be your biggest strength. That also means you should have demonstrated knowledge of AP style. Another thing is WordPress. Everything that is published is written on WordPress, so knowing your way around it is ideal. We’d also love to have someone who is interested in social media marketing, photography and videography. It would be really beneficial to have some photo editing skills and basic knowledge of Web best practices.
Other
The internship requires some evening and weekend work, but don’t let this turn you away. The events you will have to go are exciting and you’ll get to experience Missouri State from behind the scenes. You must be able to work at computer workstations for extended periods of time, but they provide a big comfy chair so don’t fret. Additionally, applicants must have visual and audio acuity within normal ranges.
You must also be committed to working with our diverse student and community populations.
Applying for the job
It may seem like a lot, but it’s been one of the best experiences I’ve had at Missouri State. Week after week, this internship confirmed that Missouri State is home and that I made the right/best decision to attend college here. I’m not sure I would have gained the same experience and advice I received here at any other internship.
If you’re in, fill out an application and email these things to web@missouristate.edu. We’re accepting submissions until Nov. 30.
- Resume
- Cover letter
- Two writing samples
Good luck and go Bears!
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