Hello real world!

Koosh balls and flying objects being thrown at your desk during office hours is not what the typical intern experiences during their first week on the job. How did I get so lucky?

Hi! My name is Kara Yadach, and I’m the new intern at Eisbrenner Public Relations. I’m a recent graduate from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Applied Arts in public relations and a minor in public affairs. Prior to joining Eisbrenner PR, I completed internships that helped develop my experience in non-profit, education and sports and entertainment marketing. I recently completed an internship with Olympia Entertainment where I managed social media outlets, assisted with media relations and coordinated branding and publicity.

I’ve now made the colossal switch from the corporate entertainment industry to life at a public relations agency. Yet, I couldn’t be more energized and delighted. I already feel confident my expectations for an internship will be met during my time spent in Eisbrenner PR’s creative, diligent and lively atmosphere.

It’s only been two weeks and I’ve already been put right to work on a variety of projects. I’ve never felt a sense of identity as “the intern.” I’m looking forward to receiving a better understanding of how things work in an agency from these lighthearted and inspired individuals. I’m excited to draft press releases, assist in creative projects with the design team and boost social media strategies for clients. One of the biggest personal challenges I foresee is becoming accustomed to all the acronyms used around the office. Nonetheless, I’m on a mission to memorize them!

The Eisbrenner PR office is new and improved and it’s exactly the environment where originality and comfort flow - my ideal kind of place! Stay tuned for my next post on the factors that make this office so great!

I’m more than happy to be here at Eisbrenner PR - what a perfect place to begin as a college grad!

Intern-al Journey

Just four months ago, I stood outside of my home as my parents snapped photos before my first day of work. Yes, I know it’s incredibly cheesy, but since my first day of kindergarten my parents have used these pictures as a way to mark the beginning of each of my new and exciting journeys.

The journey I embarked on this one particular morning was my internship at Eisbrenner Public Relations. Before that day, I had a small idea of what public relations was, and could only reference the knowledge I had gained from school.

Since then, my knowledge has greatly expanded. I’ve had the opportunity to apply what I’ve learned in school to a well-respected practice. Not only have I learned a lot about my profession, but I’ve learned a lot about myself.

Now I understand the process involved with planning events, compiling media lists and even writing blog posts. I recognize the value of working with a team and the thrill of the results that follow. I’ve seen just how effective open communication can be and how determination can turn a good idea into a great plan-of-action.

I’ve benefited from teammates who have taught me by example. They’ve shown me the delicate balance between work and play, and even how to intermix the two. From them, I’ve seen how passion can transform your skills. I’ve found that passion motivates excellent results and drives a curiosity to learn more.

Looking back at the photos from my first day, I’m amazed to see how far I’ve come. I’ve gained an understanding and appreciation for agency life, public relations and myself. I’m grateful for the many opportunities and life lessons Eisbrenner PR has given me. This experience has helped me grow, and I’m excited to continue that growth well into my career.

I’d say let’s take a picture, but my Dad already made me pose for yet another snap-shot before I left for work this morning! He was right though, this is only the beginning for me.

The Power of Social Media

“I thought nobody was telling their story and I needed to go there,” said Mark Horvath in an article featured on CNN.com.

Horvath knows firsthand the story behind homelessness. He understands the shame of living on the streets of Hollywood. After losing his job to a drug and alcohol addiction and experiencing the unfortunate reality of homelessness, Horvath decided to share his story and a 100 other testimonials on his social media streams.

Through Twitter, Facebook, Whrrl, MySpace, YouTube, etc., Horvath has drawn attention to a growing epidemic in our nation. His broadcasts gained 10,000 followers on Twitter, many of whom have made donations of cars, socks and shoes.

This story shows the impact social media has on our lives. It allows everyone’s voice to be heard, whether they are speaking about a serious topic like homelessness or sharing light-hearted chronicles about a restaurant’s wait staff.

Social media not only provides an outlet to broadcast ideas, but it helps create opportunities and initiate change. I never understood this until I attended my first Tweetea meeting at Goldfish Tea Shop in Royal Oak.

It was there I met a diverse group of people who shared their advice. They told me there are no rules when it comes to using social media. Of course, be wise and use discretion, but don’t let inhibitions control how you use it and what you publish. Your inhibitions will only limit the value social media can provide you.

My internship introduced me to these tools, and now I’m finally understanding their true power. I’m beginning to see how social media can connect people that otherwise never would’ve met and I’m benefiting from their advice. I look forward to all the unique opportunities social media will present in my life.

Take Mark Horvath’s lead, break the rules and let your voice be heard!