PR Student, Johanna Williams, Takes Her Skills Across the Ocean with a Nonprofit Internship in Ireland
By: Mya Moorhous
Johanna Williams, a senior studying public relations at Michigan State University, did not expect a class presentation to turn into an internship in the Emerald Isle. Her internship abroad not only allowed her to spend her summer surrounded by Ireland’s rolling green countryside, but also broadened her perspective on public relations in the workspace, while gaining college credit.
“I knew I wanted to study abroad, but we learned about the opportunity to do an internship abroad, which I didn’t even know was an option,” said Williams, “I figured that would be a great opportunity to travel abroad, while gaining internal experience.”
After Williams changed her major to public relations later in her college career, she needed additional course credits to stay on track to graduate on time. In the MSU course PR 260, she learned about the opportunity to complete a solo international internship to fulfill PR credit requirements while gaining industry experience.
Williams’ decision to apply led her to an internship with the Community Foundation of Ireland. The foundation is a philanthropic hub that connects donors with communities and charitable causes to foster social change and support sustainable development. Where in her role, she contributed to communications projects which helped the foundation spread their messaging and stakeholder engagement.
While the experience was one she says she’ll never forget, it did not come without its challenges.
“Honestly, I could not understand their accents at first,” Williams said. “Sounds silly because they speak English but between the speed, slang and workplace jargon, it took me about two weeks to fully catch on and understand.”
Cultural differences in the workplace were another surprise for Williams. The typical nine to five schedule was more flexible than she was used to in the United States. When Williams was done with her work, whether it was 5 p.m. or 3 p.m. — she was free to explore the country. She immersed herself in the Irish culture while taking trips to the Cliffs of Moher and spending time with her Irish coworkers.
Looking back, Williams said her internship helped her grow both professionally and personally, giving her a deeper appreciation for cultural differences and a new sense of independence. Her experience continues to shape her career path, noting that she frequently discusses her global communications experience in interviews. Williams encourages other students to consider doing an internship or study abroad.
“Do it,” said Williams, “Of course it is scary at first. But if you have the chance, just do it, you will grow in ways you would never expect.”
To learn more or apply about completing an internship abroad, visit https://comartsci.msu.edu/student-experience/education-abroad/international-internships.
