Internship Reflection: Jaliyah Webb at PRMR INC. Public Relations Consultants
My name is Jaliyah Webb, and I’m 16 years old. I recently completed an internship at PRMR Inc. Public Relations Consultants from August 6 to August 30, which was an insightful experience. Here's a look back at my journey and what I've learned along the way.
How I secured the internship
My journey to PRMR Inc. began during my fifth year at The St. Michael School when I was placed into a life skills development programme. This programme, in partnership with The University of the West Indies (UWI) Open Campus, was designed to teach us basic life skills, including the world of work. At the end of the school year, we had to take an exam, and those of us who performed well were given the chance to interview for internships.
I was fortunate enough to score among the highest, along with a friend, and we were both invited for an interview. The interview process took place at the Open Campus Learning Center at the end of June, where we faced a panel consisting of some of our instructors and other professionals. Despite being nervous, I was excited about the opportunity. Later on, I was asked if I would be interested in working in Public Relations. I agreed because it aligned well with my interests in Business Consulting and Coaching.
My Experience with the Internship
At PRMR Inc., my primary responsibilities included writing articles, conducting research, drafting social media plans, and identifying potential advertisers for the company’s publication ‘Diabetes Today’. Initially, the task of calling unfamiliar people was daunting, but I gradually grew more comfortable. I practised what I needed to say and managed to improve my communication skills significantly. The process taught me how to manage my tone and delivery, ensuring clarity and professionalism in my interactions.
Valuable Skills
This internship was my first working experience, and it provided me with a wealth of knowledge about how businesses operate. I learned about the critical role of public relations; understanding the importance of promoting your own business in addition to the clients’ was a crucial takeaway.
Reflections and Future Aspirations
As I look forward to my future, including my plans to study Business Studies and Entrepreneurship in sixth form or Business Studies at the Barbados Community College, I realize how this internship has prepared me. The structured environment at PRMR Inc. and the regular team meetings provided me with a sense of direction and organization, which I found encouraging. I learned how to manage tasks efficiently, communicate effectively with colleagues, and balance speed with accuracy.
If I could do anything differently, I would have taken more initiative to seek additional tasks during quieter periods. This would have allowed me to engage more deeply with various aspects of the business.
Overall, my internship at PRMR INC. was an eye-opening experience. It has reinforced my interest in business and public relations and provided me with practical skills that will be valuable in my future career. I am grateful for the opportunity and the lessons learned, which I will carry forward as I continue to explore my professional goals.
