Ferris State University students gain valuable work experience through internships. Internships also can confirm or redirect career decision-making, provide marketability, develop people skills and enhance classroom learning. Many academic programs require one, but the experience is encouraged regardless to provide students with a better understanding of what will be expected of them in the workplace.
Many students are participating in myriad internships this summer. Meet:
Katie Gilligan
She is: senior from Grand Rapids, Michigan, majoring in Public Relations.
Her Internship: She’s an intern at Ferris State University in the News Services office of the University Advancement and Marketing division. “This internship has allowed me to get real-world experiences, network, strength my networking skills, and grow a deep love for my career.”
Future Plans: “I plan to graduate from the Ferris State University College of Business with my Bachelor of Science in Public Relations in Fall 2021. After college, I plan to find a public relations agency in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Learning is one of my passions; therefore, I plan to return to school to further my education and earn my doctorate in business administration in public relations.”
Advice to future Public Relations Students: “Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. The only way we can grow and learn is if we dust the dirt off our shirts and keep going.”
Other Activities: “I serve on Alpha Sigma Tau’s Executive Board as vice president of growth while also serving on Order of Omega’s Executive Board as vice president of community service and special events. I’m also a member of the Public Relations Student Society of America, and, in the future, I plan to run for a leadership position.”
Core Value Katie Relates to: “The core value I relate to the most is excellence. I strive to make improvements in my professional and personal life daily. We weren’t born perfect, so there’s always room to learn, grow and improve to become the best version of yourself.”