Chioke Armstrong-Malloy, M.A.
As my internship at Hawthorne Strategy Group comes to an end, I wanted to reflect on this opportunity to gain hands-on experience with a range of exciting clients. From crafting media advisories and press releases for the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act anniversary to campaigns for clients such as Dance Divas and the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, my time here has been both enriching and educational.
Writing
One of the most rewarding aspects of this internship was the opportunity to hone my writing skills. I was able to draft several blogs for the Hawthorne Strategy Group site, as well as for our client Solar Powers Illinois. These solar blogs were very rewarding for me, as they highlight our clients’ efforts to increase the quantity of solar energy in Illinois.
Dance Divas Campaign
The Dance Divas campaign was a standout experience for me. Working alongside Hawthorne team members Anahi and Anna, I contributed from the planning phase to showtime, drafting tailored press releases, helping to manage media outreach, and coordinating interviews. This project allowed me to see the impact of strategic communication and collaboration firsthand. In addition, it felt great to work on a 100% volunteer-based fundraiser and performance that has raised over $300,000 for local dance professionals in need of preventative healthcare or facing critical health needs.
WashU Medicine
Lastly, something I am grateful to have been part of is our work with Washington University in St. Louis’ School of Medicine. Throughout the year, I was part of a team that analyzed the school’s brand voice and presence. The end product will be a plan to help WashU Medicine gain the national recognition it deserves. Most recently, I engaged with media outlets and podcasts to explore sponsorship opportunities and learn about the various options available. This experience provided valuable insights into the backend of sponsorships, offering me a perspective on the industry that I might not have encountered otherwise.
Lessons Learned
Throughout my time at Hawthorne, I’ve grown both professionally and personally. I’m grateful to the team for their guidance and patience as I navigated the nuances of public relations. Each project reinforced the value of clear communication and the importance of promoting positive messages and initiatives. These lessons will undoubtedly inform my next steps as I move forward in my career.
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