Sarah Bittinger

Major: Communication; Minor: Human Development and Family Science 

Intern, All Points PR 

How did you learn about this internship opportunity? 

I learned about this internship opportunity at a networking event at Purdue. All Points Public Relations came to Purdue to speak to students about their firm and experiences.

How has your internship helped build your skills and clarify your career goals?  How did being a Liberal Arts student at Purdue apply to your internship?

This internship has significantly strengthened my writing abilities, enhanced my professional communication skills, and deepened my understanding of public relations strategies. My education in the College of Liberal Arts has been essential in preparing me for this experience. The coursework I completed laid a strong foundation for success by teaching me how to write press releases, craft pitches, and build media lists using platforms like Muck Rack. The assignments and exams throughout the academic year provided practical experience that I now apply to real-world PR work.

What is a piece of advice you would give someone in your major  looking for an internship? 

I truly believe that most people get an internship based on connections. My advice would be to start networking early on to build relationships that will give you an advantage later. I would start by connecting with people on LinkedIn, setting up meetings, sending a follow-up email to a guest speaker that your professor brought in, etc.     

What key responsibilities or tasks have you taken on during your internship?

I developed targeted media lists for clients launching new locations in specific markets and crafted pitches for both openings and business growth opportunities. I coordinated and confirmed interview logistics to ensure a smooth process for all parties involved. Additionally, I wrote press releases announcing client openings and organized promotional food drop-offs to radio stations for media outreach.

In what ways has the College of Liberal Arts at Purdue University supported your internship journey? How has your participation in our job-ready program specifically aided your professional development? 

The College of Liberal Arts at Purdue University has supported my internship by providing professors who care about my future. The professors go above and beyond to make sure I take away useful information that has helped me succeed at this internship. The College of Liberal Arts has also provided me with a broad range of courses that has given me skills in more than just Public Relations. The job-ready program has aided my professional development by helping offset the costs of living away from home and other internship-related expenses, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the experience without financial strain. The program has helped me bridge the gap between academic learning and professional application. I truly love being a CLA student because I have created relationships that will continue to follow me even after I graduate. My professors and academic advisor want me to thrive at Purdue and in my future.

Could you highlight a standout aspect of your experience in this program that you find particularly noteworthy? 

A standout aspect of this program is the support I have received. I am surrounded by mentors who have been rooting for my success and encourage me to gain the most out of my experience. They help whenever I have questions and need assistance.