ORGANIZATION
The Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service at University of Virginia leverages the research, expertise, and resources of the University to strengthen effective governance, inform public policy, develop ethical and effective leaders, and deliver strategic and technical assistance throughout the state.
MISSION
We help build a strong, well-informed citizenry by providing nonpartisan, reliable services to individuals and entities that serve the public good. We conduct rigorous, practical research that informs public policy, and provide best-in-class leadership development programs for students, state and local governments, and non-profit leaders. Through our training and research, we serve as a critical and objective partner to help policymakers and practitioners solve pressing problems.
MENTOR
Alexandra Rebhorn, Director of Communications & Engagement
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
This internship will prepare interns for careers in any of the following:
- Communication, Outreach, and Publishing
- Government
- Non-profit
- Marketing and Sales
SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
This internship will provide experiences to develop and polish the following skills:
- Communication
- Team Work and Collaboration
- Project Management
- Thought leadership and innovation
MENTORING PLAN
The Communications Director will mentor the intern in collaboration with the media team. Mentoring will emphasize effective and strategic communications, including the prioritization, development, and creation of content; identifying and segmenting audiences; and creative trends. Interns will be invited to participate in communications strategy meetings. Claire Downey and Vanessa Gleiser will assist in onboarding the intern to understand the Center’s organization, goals and priorities. A degree of self-direction and initiative is highly desired.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
This internship will provide experiences to develop and polish the following skills:
• Communication to diverse audiences
• Interdisciplinary team collaboration
• Problem-solving and analytical skills
• Project management and leadership
• Thought leadership and innovation
• Marketing
RESPONSIBILITIES
The intern will contribute to a broad variety of content, depending on skills, including research summaries, press releases, articles, and op-eds. They would also learn how best to track and measure media placements.
DESIRED QUALITIES
The Communications and Media team is open to students from a variety of disciplinary backgrounds. A broad understanding of any of the following is desired but not essential:
• Communication
• Civic Engagement/Community Outreach
• Politics and democracy
• Writing and journalism
• Project management
• A sense of humor, enthusiasm, and flexibility are all appreciated
MODE OF INTERNSHIP
Willing to consider all options depending on the intern's availability.
DURATION AND EFFORT
Fall 2024