Internships
Securing an internship prior to graduation is imperative for job and career success. According to a recent study by Michigan State University, employers report that over 50% of their new hires completed internships within the company, and another 40% completed internships elsewhere.
To this end, the Department of Communication Studies affords an abundance of internship opportunities. Past interns have worked for:
- President Barack Obama
- Senator John McCain
- Congressional leaders, governors, and legislators
- Nonprofit agencies
- Health care companies
- Entertainment firms and studios
The department strongly encourages you to secure an internship before graduation, and we hope our majors discover the joy, engagement, and the educational value of being an intern. Without a doubt, integrating classroom learning with hands-on job experience is one recipe for academic success!
For more information, please contact Ted Hollingworth, the department’s internship coordinator.
A Capitol Experience: Special Internship Opportunity for all Department Majors
One unique opportunity for communication studies and political communication majors is the Emerson Washington Program. Working in conjunction with The Washington Center for Internships and Seminars, an independent non-profit organization, the Department of Communication Studies provides students with an enormous array of 
internship possibilities in and around the nation’s capital. Past student internship employers include:
- Human rights organizations
- Think tanks
- Political offices
- Lobbyist firms
- Social responsibility agencies
- Business administration offices
- Environmental organizations
Such opportunities provide students with the skills and experience they need to succeed in a variety of professions. Emerson students will be housed in apartments provided by the Center and students pay nothing beyond the equivalent of a semester on Emerson’s Boston campus.
For more information about the program and how to apply, visit the Emerson Washington Program website, or contact Richard West, the department chair. This is a highly competitive program and the application process requires letters of support.
Careers in Communication
Communication Sustains its Value
As these uncertain economic times continue, college-bound students and families are considering careers that have lasting importance. You can now point to a major in the Department of Communication Studies as part of a valuable career path.
In the July 2009 report, “Preparing Workers Today for the Jobs of Tomorrow,” the President’s Council of Economic Advisors clearly notes that skills in oral communication, teamwork, and collaboration are “among the most important skills” entry-level workers will need. Clearly, with a degree from a college known as one of the premiere schools in communication, you’ll be in more demand than ever!
Post it with Pride
The department is proud of its students and our graduates are among the most talented, resourceful, and sought-after recruits in the country. If you are an employer who is interested in posting career opportunities for majors in the Department of Communication Studies, please contact Matt Cardin, the assistant director of employer relations in Career Services.
