By Samantha Treiman, JMC ‘20
I have always loved the performing arts and journalism.
My press internship this fall with the public relations department at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts allowed me to channel two of my greatest passions into my work. Interning in the press office also shed light on the value of public relations and the great influence it has on journalism.
My mornings started at 8 a.m., sifting through print copies of local newspapers and other national publications. It was my responsibility to compile and reformat news clips across media outlets for both internal and external purposes.
I also assisted with drafting and editing press releases and playbills for upcoming performances. The monthly Millennium Stage calendar press releases were one of my main responsibilities and I was always in contact with artists to collect information about their upcoming performances.
The diverse programming offered at the Kennedy Center provided me with the opportunity to learn about many different genres in the arts. As an intern, I also had the opportunity to attend some of the incredible performances and events that take place at the Kennedy Center.
Two highlights from my internship experience were working with the press team on the red carpet at the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor and the 40th Annual Kennedy Center Honors.
No two days were the same in this fast-paced environment. Whether I was escorting media outlets at Millennium Stage performances or holding Julie Andrews’ purse as she walked the red carpet at the Kennedy Center Honors, my days at the office were always exciting, to say the least.