By Kaylee Holland - Growing up in a small rural farming town about an hour and a half from Philadelphia, I had little exposure to professional communications organizations beyond what I learned in the classroom. So, when I received an email from my professor announcing an internship opportunity with IABC Philadelphia, I was unsure what the organization was or what it could offer me. I had never heard of IABC before, and I questioned how it would be relevant to my future career. However, after spending just a few minutes researching IABC and its mission, I quickly realized how valuable this opportunity could be—especially as a young, aspiring communicator preparing to enter the professional world.

I served as the public relations intern for IABC Philadelphia from June 2025 to January 2026. Over those eight months, I gained invaluable knowledge of public relations, built meaningful connections, and learned directly from experienced professionals who volunteer their time to support the organization. One of the most impactful aspects of the internship was being surrounded by individuals who were genuinely invested in helping students and young professionals grow.

During my internship, I worked on a variety of projects that strengthened both my strategic and practical communication skills. A major responsibility was conducting over three months of research and developing a comprehensive communications plan aimed at increasing IABC Philadelphia’s membership. This experience allowed me to apply concepts I had learned in my coursework—such as audience analysis, messaging strategy, and goal setting—to a real organization with real objectives. It helped me understand how much planning and research goes into effective communication efforts.

Another highlight of my internship was the opportunity to interview many of the 2025 and 2026 speakers hosted by IABC Philadelphia. Speaking with professionals from diverse communication backgrounds was both exciting and inspiring. Their passion for the field, willingness to share advice, and unique career paths reinforced my interest in pursuing a career in communications. These interviews also helped me grow more confident in professional settings and improve my ability to ask thoughtful questions and tell compelling stories.

Beyond the technical skills I gained, this internship taught me the importance of networking and professional involvement. Attending events, interacting with members, and learning from guest speakers showed me how valuable organizations like IABC can be in shaping a career. I learned that success in communications is not only about strong writing or strategy, but also about relationships, adaptability, and continuous learning.

Overall, my internship with IABC Philadelphia exceeded my initial expectations. What began as an unfamiliar opportunity turned into a defining experience that gave me clarity, confidence, and a stronger sense of direction. I leave this internship better prepared for my future career and grateful for the mentorship, knowledge, and inspiration I gained along the way.

Kaylee Holland is a driven advertising and public relations student passionate about crafting meaningful connections through strategic storytelling. She thrives on shaping public perception and executing campaigns that leave a lasting impact. Kaylee enjoys traveling, crocheting, singing in choir, staying active, and musical theatre. Her blend of creativity, empathy, and strategic thinking fuels both her interests and her ambition to build strong, authentic brands.