Shedd Internship Program
Communications & Public Relations
Objective
Work directly with the Public Relations staff to implement daily media relations, internal and external
communications projects, events and activities that help position Shedd as the top cultural attraction
in Chicago and the country, as well as a leading global conservation organization worldwide.
Summary
The intern will work directly with the Public Relations staff to assist in implementing daily media
relations, internal and external communications projects, events and activities that help position Shedd
as the top cultural attraction in Chicago and the country, as well as a leading global conservation
organization worldwide. The intern will gain exposure to a variety of media relations opportunities,
including cultural and environmental issues through public relations projects, internal and external, as
well as relationship building with local, regional and national media outlets. There will also be
opportunities for creating connections to other Shedd staff and interns through formal and informal
trainings as well as mentorship opportunities. We value our interns and they are considered part of the
team!
Responsibilities & Duties
 Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values
 Willingness to interact with both internal and external audiences via telephone or in-person. Updates
PR Coordinator accordingly.
 Light media pitching; returning media calls and requests.
 Assist in drafting press releases and pitches.
 Assisting staff with internal communication needs.
 Coordinating logistics for media interview opportunities and events.
 Producing background research on various zoo and aquarium or activist industry news.
Projects May Include
 Work with the PR team develop an outreach strategy for national awareness days specifically animal
care and rescue and rehab efforts.
 Develop pitches, story ideas and communications assess to help share our story and relevance.
 Work closely with the Communications and Public Relations Manager to provide support for the
Aquarium’s integrated public relations plans
 Assist with draft press releases and pitches
 Assist staff with external and internal communication needs
 Respond, gather information and coordinate media requests
 Coordinate logistics for media interview opportunities and events including press conferences
 Coordinate press materials for PR Newsroom
 Produce background research on various zoo and aquarium or industry news as needed
 Respond, gather information and coordinate student media requests
 Work with the PR team on media activities surrounding the launch of the new exhibit.
 Work with the PR team develop a unique blogger community to create online evangelist for the Shedd
brand.
 Identify photo and video of week type news outlets and assist with pitching online editors to secure
images of Shedd’s animals.
3/19/16
Shedd Internship Program
Communications & Public Relations
Qualifications
A desirable candidate must be able to multitask, have excellent organizational skills, be deadline-oriented, have
the ability to work independently, be energetic and have an eagerness to learn. A candidate must also think
critically and creatively, be a self-starter, have a passion for public relations and possess excellent time
management skills. Intern should be proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and must be able to work flexible
hours including some early mornings, nights and weekends as necessary, as well as walk/stand for extended
periods of time. Professional work ethic and demeanor is imperative.
Time Commitment
Three to five days a week; 24 to 35 hours weekly (set schedule will be determined based on intern availability).
3/19/16