Summer 2018 communication internships offered students a hands-on runway to test messaging strategies, media tactics, and audience engagement in real campaigns. These roles emphasized fast‑paced collaboration across teams, data‑driven storytelling, and polished delivery under deadline pressure.
For many early‑career candidates, the summer 2018 window was a proving ground where classroom theory met client expectations, news cycles, and brand voices. The internships listed below highlight diverse sectors and outcomes relevant to aspiring communicators.
Overview of Summer 2018 Communication Internships
Across agencies, nonprofits, and corporate communications departments, summer 2018 programs focused on practical skill building in writing, digital media, and stakeholder outreach. Interns supported press monitoring, social content, event coverage, and analytics reporting.
Internship Opportunities at a Glance
| Organization | Location | Focus Area | Duration | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brightline Digital | New York, NY | Social Media & Content | June–August | Campaign performance report presented to leadership |
| Civic Voice Network | Washington, DC | Public Affairs & Policy | May–August | Supported briefing materials for congressional liaison |
| Summit PR Group | Chicago, IL | Media Relations & Crisis | June–September | Media list expansion and press release drafting |
| GreenFuture Initiative | Remote / Hybrid | Digital Advocacy | June–August | Email sequence with 18% open-rate increase |
| Harbor Health Systems | Boston, MA | Internal Communications | June–August | Intranet newsletter and employee survey analysis |
Day to Day Workflow and Responsibilities
Interns in communication roles during summer 2018 typically managed a rotating mix of tactical and strategic tasks. Daily routines included monitoring media coverage, drafting pitches, coordinating with designers, and updating content calendars.
Many programs assigned weekly check‑ins with mentors to review story angles, analytics dashboards, and tone alignment with brand guidelines. This structure helped interns connect skill practice to measurable outcomes.
Skills Development and Portfolio Building
Beyond task completion, summer 2018 communication internships emphasized targeted skills development in writing, data analysis, and digital tools. Interns refined press release drafting, media list building, and social content scheduling through iterative feedback.
Portfolio pieces often included sample media advisories, social campaigns with engagement metrics, and internal newsletters. These artifacts helped candidates demonstrate versatility and professional judgment in interviews.
Industry Focus and Sector Trends
During summer 2018, internship roles reflected growth in digital advocacy, health communications, and corporate public affairs. Organizations invested in interns who could bridge traditional PR with analytics and community management.
Sectors such as healthcare, technology, and civic organizations sought candidates comfortable with fast news cycles and cross‑platform storytelling. This trend encouraged interns to build fluency in SEO basics, social scheduling platforms, and basic data reporting.
Next Steps for Aspiring Communicators
- Curate writing samples that showcase varied tones and platforms.
- Highlight any campaign analytics or project results from class or volunteer work.
- Build a simple portfolio site to host pitches, stories, and graphics.
- Network with alumni and professionals through campus events and LinkedIn.
- Apply early to agencies and organizations with structured internship tracks.
FAQ
Reader questions
How selective were summer 2018 communication internships?
Applications were competitive, with agencies and large organizations reviewing portfolios, writing samples, and relevant coursework. Strong candidates demonstrated clarity of voice, familiarity with media landscapes, and proactive project contributions.
What were common evaluation criteria used by hiring teams?
Hiring teams assessed writing clarity, deadline reliability, collaboration with designers and analysts, and the ability to adapt messaging for different audiences. Quantifiable results, such as engagement lifts or earned placements, strengthened evaluations.
Did interns typically receive academic credit for these roles?
Many university programs allowed credit for structured internships that included learning objectives and faculty oversight. Interns were expected to track deliverables and hours to satisfy institutional requirements.
How did remote and hybrid options compare to in‑person roles?
Remote and hybrid internships offered flexibility in scheduling but required strong written communication and self‑management. Teams used video check‑ins, shared dashboards, and clear briefs to maintain alignment with on‑site peers.