MSU PR Major, Jalin Hill, Turns a Community Relations Internship into a Lifelong Passion
By: Chloe Bogedain
At Michigan State University, students find their passions in countless ways. For Jalin Hill, the journey began as a high school junior passing through a school career fair. He discovered an opening for a community relations internship at the Detroit City Council.
“I was interested in working for the Detroit City Council; coincidentally, the only position offered was a community relations internship,” said Hill, “I told myself; I’ll give it a try.”
His small spark of interest in gaining hands-on experience at the Detroit City Council went on to majorly shift Hill’s career path.
After learning about the opportunity to work under the city of Detroit Council member, Angela Whitfield-Calloway, Hill decided, as a mere high school student, to take a shot in the dark. With luck on his side, he was awarded the internship.
“I emailed them, and they ended up taking a chance on me,” said Hill
The new responsibilities gave Hill many hats to wear. A typical day in the office involved attending council meetings and public hearings, as well as gathering photographs and descriptions of individuals for the weekly newsletter. Outside of the office, Hill was tasked with attending public events and was encouraged to step out of an observant role – interacting with Detroit’s community residents and connecting with local leaders.
“It felt like I was making a difference, “said Hill. “Attending events, being out in the community, seeing people come out with their children, pets or just themselves, it did something to me.”
The realization sent Hill on his path to PR, where he chose to continue his studies at MSU. In courses like ADV 402 Public Relations Topics in Advertising, students are paired with field-experienced mentors. Hill is currently assigned to the MSUFCU vice president of community relations, where he often connects his coursework to his experience as a community relations intern.
“The internship experience created a foundational understanding that helps me engage in meaningful conversations with the vice president,” said Hill. “The unique connection circles back to the motivation behind my journey.”
As a Detroit native, the internship went beyond hands-on experience – deepening the roots inside his home community. He said he carries his commitment and dedication through serving as a programming lead and mentor in the Detroit M.A.D.E. program. Simultaneously expanding his community impact, Hill also serves as a PR chair for the South Neighborhood Black Caucus at MSU.
Starting as a junior with no experience and a fresh mindset, Hill’s journey reflects the significance of stepping outside the comfort zone. Today, he carries his sparked passion within the MSU AD+PR community.
To learn more about Hills role at the Detroit City Council visit the city of Detroit District 2 Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/groups/1275443152476562/.
