If the skirt splits, the internship fits!

On the way to my interview for Momentum Forum Events my brand new pencil skirt, (which I had bought the day before especially for the occasion) split right up the seam in the middle. On top of this, walking from my car to the office it started erratically pouring with rain (might I add that this was in summer without an umbrella) I nearly gave up then and there! I couldn’t believe how unlucky I had been on my very first professional business interview and I thought it must have been a bad omen. Although it has turned out to be quite the contrary, I managed to secure the position and was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work at Momentum.

I have completed my 20 days interning, but I am staying on until late June for one of their signature events, the Men in Black Ball. I really hope everyone’s internships have been as fantastic as mine has. I was quite anxious approaching this unit and undertaking an internship, but I honesty consider it to have been one of the most valuable experiences I have had over my years of study. I have met some amazing people, learnt so much about how public relations tactics are executed in the real world and received an enhanced sense of guidance for this exciting field of work.

The real world practice has prepared me in many ways for the long-term prospective, particularly easing my nerves for future job applications and interviews- how to stay calm if things don’t always work in your favour! Through university I have learnt the theories and understood why various methods work, but the practical knowledge and insights gained at Momentum helped specify certain techniques and deepened my comprehension of their processes. This has included their use of research, reputation management, stakeholder management, relationship building and two-way symmetric communication. Additionally experiencing the organisation's implementation of social media, corporate sponsorships, media relations and ethical practice.

As much as it has been informative, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Momentum. If I could give future PR Internship students any advise, I would recommend to try not to be nervous, demonstrate enthusiasm and embrace all opportunities as much as you can- as my supervisor would say ‘say yes to life’! 

My placement has provided me with a great perspective and broadened appreciation of practitioners and the public relations industry. I am really looking forward to seeing the Men in Black Ball come together and for Momentum’s endless hard work to pay off.

Good luck to everyone with your future endeavours!

Bianca O’Neill