3 Tips For A Successful Communications Internship

Summer 2025 intern Lalitha Viswanathan on how she made the most of her Ceisler Media internship.

One word I would use to describe working as an intern at Ceisler Media & Issue Advocacy: unpredictable. You could be writing a press release for the Philadelphia City Controller’s office one day and creating a flyer for a nonprofit the next day. I absolutely loved this aspect of working at Ceisler!

Through this internship experience, I was granted the opportunity to work with a diverse clientele, learning new lessons and about new industries. I also gained a wealth of information from the talented staff at Ceisler, all coming from unique backgrounds.

Here are the most important lessons and tips I have learned during my summer:

1. Be enthusiastic

Be enthusiastic about doing your work. Check in with your intern manager to see if there are additional projects you can take on or colleagues you can assist. This demonstrates your commitment and willingness to be a team player. Every assignment you are given is for the greater good of the firm.

Additionally, be enthusiastic about learning new things. The highlight of working at a firm like Ceisler is the excitement of learning about a new industry. Ceisler Media represents nonprofits, government alliances, and large corporations, and there is always something more to learn from these clients.

2. Ask Questions

Ask questions about your colleagues’ interests and experiences. Ceisler has so many talented workers who come from a variety of backgrounds and industries. In a fast-paced environment, it can be easy to focus solely on your tasks. However, taking the time to ask thoughtful questions is a sign of engagement and a desire to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification on a project or for more context on a client’s issue. It’s better to ask and ensure you’re on the right track than to make assumptions.

Furthermore, ask questions that go beyond your immediate assignments. Inquire about a colleague’s career path, what they enjoy most about their work, or their perspective on a particular campaign. This curiosity will show your genuine interest in the people you work with. At a firm with a diverse client base like Ceisler, asking questions is key to learn ing about different sectors and the unique communication challenges they face.

3. Relationships Matter

Colleagues and fellow interns are an invaluable resource. Building strong professional relationships is one of the most important things you can do during your internship.  Your colleagues are not just there to assign you tasks; they can be mentors who offer guidance and support long after your internship ends.  Make an effort to get to know them on a personal level, whether it’s by grabbing coffee or joining in on team lunches.  These informal interactions can lead to more meaningful connections and a better understanding of the company culture.

Your fellow interns are in the same boat as you. They can be a great support system and a source of friendship. Share your experiences, learn from each other’s projects, and build a network that you can carry with you into your future careers. The relationships you build with both your colleagues and fellow interns can be just as valuable as the work experience you gain.  Remember to express your gratitude for their help and guidance; a simple thank you can go a long way in fostering positive relationships.

I hope these pieces of advice can be of use to incoming interns! Thank you so much to everyone at Ceisler Media for making this an invaluable summer internship experience!