Layna Darling

Interview by Elizabeth Brunette

With which organization did you intern?

Special Olympics Minnesota

Where is it located? 

Minneapolis, Minnesota

How did you find out about the internship? 

I worked on a group project with someone who was interning with Special Olympics, and she said she was loving it. I decided to keep my eye out for any opportunities with this organization. When I saw a listing on GoldPass for a Public Relations Intern at Special Olympics, I knew I had to apply.

What were your responsibilities?

I crafted and distributed press releases to Twin Cities publications, designed a strategic campaign for the organization’s Summer Games, monitored media channels for mentions of the organization, updated the organization’s websites, designed web content and created social media posts.

What did you most enjoy? 

Throughout my internship, I had many opportunities to create new and innovative ways to communicate the organization’s messages. This allowed me to explore my creativity, which I really enjoyed.

I also loved attending events in the intern role. Not only was I able to interact with the athletes involved in Special Olympics, which was a big reason this position interested me, but I also had the opportunity to see how all of the work of the organization could come together to produce something tangible and beneficial. The smiles on the athletes’ faces are the best output.  

What is something that you learned from your internship experience? 

It is important to be proactive and take initiative. Don’t wait for something to be assigned to you -- look for those opportunities where you can contribute and excel. The phrase “you get out what you put into it” really matters in an internship, for this is an opportunity for your own personal and professional development. It is up to you to make the most of it.

How will your internship help you in your future studies/career? 

This internship has helped me become a better writer, communicator and designer, but it also has reinforced the idea of how important it is to help people. Words can be so powerful.

What's one piece of advice you would give other students about securing an exciting internship? 

Take chances. I applied to both this internship and my previous internship on a whim. They weren’t looking for underclassmen, but that didn’t stop me. If you are able to show your passion and tenacity, employers will recognize that. Don’t be afraid to go after your dream internship. You will never get it if you don’t apply.