Development Communications in the Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR) at Penn State is currently seeking a creative, passionate, and detail-oriented intern to create social media and other forms of digital content to advance engagement success via the Raise Penn State platform. As a member of the Division of Development and Alumni Relations, you can play an integral role in Penn State’s future and contribute to one of the most successful fundraising and alumni relations operations in the country. 

This paid summer internship (40 hours per week for 12 weeks) is part of a larger internship program within DDAR. This program includes an orientation and professional development sessions with the other members of the internship cohort. To apply for the other positions, please search for the following REQ on Workday: REQ_0000074380 

Reporting to the Social Media Specialist and working closely with other members of the engagement communications team within the Office of Development Communications as well as other partners, this intern will play a meaningful role in supporting the office’s efforts to build new relationships with Penn State alumni and friends across demographics in digital spaces. The intern will: 

• Pitch content ideas for Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Threads 

• Capture and edit photos and videos for social media and other digital platforms 

• Write captions for social media posts 

• Schedule and publish posts on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn  

• Attend social media strategy meetings with Development Communications and External Engagement colleagues 

Base internship qualifications:  

• An interest in the field of university / non-profit development, which may include work in fundraising, cultivating alumni relationships, engaging alumni and donors, managing volunteers, planning events, and non-profit communication;    

• A dedication to and understanding of the skills required to build relationships with diverse communities;  

• Exemplary interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills;   

• A proven ability to self-motivate and work both independently and as part of a team;   

• A commitment to professional development, learning, and being mentored;  

• Experience with leadership or influencing others  

In addition to these base internship qualifications, the Development Communications intern will also possess:  

• Previous experience or coursework in communications, marketing, or a similar field; 

• Familiarity with shooting photos/videos with a cell phone or digital camera; 

• General understanding of social media and trends 

Successful completion of standard background checks is required. 

Application Instructions:   

Due on January 20th, a complete application consists of:  

* a resume  

* a cover letter addressed to Adidi Etim-Hunting. In your cover letter, please answer the following questions:   

1) What experiences (e.g. through your classes, work, or campus / community involvement) do you have with each of the qualifications listed above?  

2) Why are you interested in this internship program, and what are you hoping to gain from it?  

3) Describe a specific team project (academic, work, or club) where you had to collaborate closely with a peer who had a significantly different communication style, professional background, or approach than your own. What was the challenge, and what specific insight did you gain that changed how you work in the future?  

Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered.  

Work Arrangement   

This internship program will run from May 11th to July 30th. Because this internship is 40 hours per week for 12 weeks, other commitments during this time (e.g. other sources of employment, coursework, etc...) are discouraged. Please raise questions about time off (e.g. for planned vacations) during the interview process.