This is part of an ongoing series on the experiences by the Colorado State University PRSSA students auctioned off at PRSA Colorado. This is the reflection of Ashley Frost, the student purchased by Linhart Public Relations.
I was auctioned off at the 2009 PRSA Colorado Gold Pick Awards to help fund my attendance to the 2009 PRSSA National Conference in San Diego. I was auctioned off first so to say the least I was terrified; however, that passed when I saw that Sharon Linhart, APR, the managing partner of Linhart Public Relations, bidding on me. She won and I was later told that they wanted to bid on me because they remembered me from the PRSA Shadow Day ’09 event. I felt lucky to be invited to visit the Linhart PR team again.
A few months later, I was in the Linhart PR office. I felt welcomed as I was introduced to the whole team—not sure if that had anything to do with the doughnuts I brought to the office.
After my greetings, I was shown to my own office space next to the other interns hired by Linhart PR, Quinn Kelsey and Dayna Davis. I was happy to see that I really was going to be like an intern because I wanted soak up any experience I could. Quinn told me that if I wanted to learn anything specific, all I had to do was ask. Knowing that they wanted me to benefit from this day as well, truly set up a great atmosphere to work in.
My first few assignments were researching client coverage. I quickly learned how a coverage report is put together. Nevertheless, my biggest high point of the day was being able to sit in on phone call pitches. Quinn was able to teach me her best practices. I learned when to call, what to say and how to say it. I’ve never had to do this before, but I will feel more confident when I do. Throughout the day, I learn that there is different glamour to each client. My favorite part of being a one-day intern was sitting in on the calls. Oh and I would have to say lunch at Chipotle paid by Linhart PR. What college student doesn’t like free food?
Since I first went to the Linhart PR office, I have been impressed with their successes and the relationships they can build. I’m grateful to Sharon, Account Executive Ashley Campbell, Account Executive Amanda Meyer, Quinn, Dayna and the rest of the team for giving me this opportunity to learn and gain experience. Although Linhart PR paid for my office help, I feel that I benefited the most from the day. I hope I was worth the bid—thanks!
By Ashley Frost