A New Journey

Hello! I'm Jessica Postema, the other summer intern at Eisbrenner Public Relations.

I recently graduated from Michigan State University, home of the almighty Spartans (GO GREEN!) with a Bachelor of Arts in communication and specialization in public relations. Prior to joining Eisbrenner PR, I interned with Mittenberry, Triterra and CRT Medical Systems in various public relations and communication positions. Throughout my internships, I have learned how much I enjoy working in public relations, in particular, the media relations and writing components. They also have helped prepare me for the busy-ness, and sometimes craziness of agency life!

Outside of my education and experience, I'm an avid baker (particularly known for my red velvet cupcakes), dog lover and aspiring marathon runner (although I'm a long way from it). I love traveling the world (hoping to visit Greece and South Africa next), spending time with my friends and now that I've graduated, having time to read something other than textbooks; which currently is "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett.

So far, my internship at Eisbrenner PR has been great! They work hard, but definitely know how to have a good time. My co-workers have been so welcoming and willing to go above and beyond to ensure Greg and I have a good experience.

Well, that's a short introduction about me, more about my new journey as an Eisbrenner PR intern to follow. Stay tuned!

Pull Up A Stool

My first official pic at Eisbrenner PR

My name is Greg Melvin and I’m one of the new interns at Eisbrenner Public Relations. I will be your ‘tender for the evening. Not too long ago I was sitting on that side of the bar. I am a long-time reader, first-time writer of the SpeakEasy, and I couldn’t be more excited.

First, a little bit about myself. I am a recent graduate of Wayne State University, where I majored in public relations. During my senior year I served as chapter president of the James S. Measell Chapter of PRSSA, a position that allowed me to hone my ability to multitask and work in a team-oriented environment, both essential to agency life.

Getting goofy at The Henry Ford

Before coming to Eisbrenner PR, I spent eight months as the media and film relations intern at The Henry Ford. My experiences there were as fun as they were valuable – from giving media tours of Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit, to HOUR magazine photo shoots, to the Trevor Bayne vehicle dedication and everything in between. 

The Driving America ribbon
 cutting ceremony

I interned while the museum was opening the new automotive exhibit, Driving America. Working on press materials for Driving America is what initially piqued my interest in the American automobile and how it has and continues to impact our lives. It was a good introduction to life at Eisbrenner, whose clientele is around 60 percent automotive.

My first month at Eisbrenner PR has been great! Sure, I had a Kevin McAllister moment or two that first week – there is a lot of new information to absorb and a learning curve with any new place. But when your first week includes a hula-hoop contest, a game of office baseball and Koosh ball fights (plural), you know it’s a cool place to work.

Outside the Book, Eisbrenner PR’s intern program, is designed for you to succeed as an intern, and everybody – from my OTB “buddy” to the firm’s president – is happy and willing to help you find success. Plus, I’m not alone on this crazy ride – this semester Eisbrenner PR has two interns! You’ll meet Jessica Postema soon.

Well, that’s a little background on me. I look forward to sharing more of my internship experiences at the SpeakEasy in the coming months. So pull up a stool – I’ll start your tab

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.

From Textbook to Practice

I can see the lead on the press release now…

“TROY, Mich. – Recent college graduate, Lindsay Karpinskas, embarks on a new journey as Eisbrenner Public Relations’ newest intern.”

I have all the basics of public relations down; everything from AP style to writing an opening lead for a press release, but how well can I write a blog entry?

Here with my first post for the SPEAKeasy blog, I guess we’re about to find out. Having just earned a degree in public relations, I’m sure I can manage. I’ve taken the courses, attended the conferences and even discussed the mechanics with current public relations practitioners. Now comes the tricky part…applying what I’ve learned to the real world.

Before I get too far ahead, allow me to introduce myself. I’m Lindsay Karpinskas, a Troy, Mich. native and proud graduate of Grand Valley State University. While in school, I was an active member of my sorority, Alpha Omicron Pi, the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and the ski team.

During my sophomore year of college, I discovered an interest in communications and a growing curiosity for public relations. This curiosity was explored during my internship in the City of Troy’s Community Affairs Department. Through this experience, I began to see the true power of public relations. I found it holds the potential to build and strengthen a community. It was this realization and many others made during my undergraduate studies that have led me to where I am today.

Now I’m excited to learn more as I start my internship here at Eisbrenner PR. I’m eager to see how well my skills transfer to the real world and what new things I’ll learn along the way. So come join me in my journey from textbook to practice as I share these lessons with you!