Internship Leads to Full-Time Job Offer Ahead of Graduation for Graphic and Interactive Design Major Student Profile

Tell us about your internship with Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

Since I am graduating a semester early, it was important to me to have an internship before I left college. I came across the marketing and communications internship at Phipps on Handshake and applied. I recently developed a great interest in marketing and this felt like the perfect opportunity to experience it on a professional level.

I attended Point Park's career fair last spring and gave my resume to Phipps. When I applied, the human resources department recognized my resume for its uniqueness and offered me an internship.

As an intern, I've had the opportunity to prepare images and copy for social media posts and blogs, shoot and edit photography, create graphics and attend weekly department meetings. 

Lastly, Phipps offered me a full-time position as a membership and marketing administrative assistant after I graduate in December, and I can’t wait to see where things go for me from here.

What have you enjoyed most as an intern?

I love that I get to work on something different every day. I may prepare a wedding blog and work on social media posts about finding Bigfoot in our Garden Railroad one day, while another I get to actually walk around the Conservatory and take behind-the-scenes photos of our Winter Flower Show install for our Instagram story.

I also love the people I work with. They have accepted and supported me in their space and continue to push me to try taking on new responsibilities to improve/refine my skills. I appreciate everything they have done and continue to do for me.

Why did you choose Point Park University’s School of Communication for graphic and interactive design?

I've always loved art and computer sciences growing up, so much so that I have a tattoo for it on my left arm. I wanted to find a practical way to be able to explore both of those things in my future career and Point Park University just felt like the right way to do it. It was a way for me to pursue what I loved while also getting to break out of being a kid from a small town.

What advice do you have for prospective students?

Take advantage of the facilities on campus. There are computer labs, art and photography studios and reservable study spaces equipped to help you. In the same respect, the resources available are just as important: the Pioneer Pantry, University Counseling Center and the Student Health Center are there for you so you don't spread yourself too thin.

Also, as a designer and artist, something I had to learn was to be able to accept critique without taking it as an insult. It is great to not have classes all day long like in high school, but with that being said you have to manage your time wisely.

What are some of your favorite things to do in Downtown Pittsburgh?

Go on walks and try all of the coffee shops. My favorite right now is Rock ’n’ Joe Coffee. Go out with friends to Condado Tacos. Sit at Point State Park and draw/read. Also, the Market Square Farmers Market, Saturday Night Market and Holiday Market are always so fun.

More About: Southmoreland High School, School of Communication, graphic design, internships, Phipps