Objective  
Work directly with the External Affairs and Communications staff to implement daily media relations, internal and external communications projects, events and activities that help position Shedd as a top cultural attraction, as well as an established leader in animal care, education and research.  
 
Summary 
The intern will gain real-world experience working with media and influencers as part of a non-profit public relations team, and utilize Shedd Aquarium resources to grow as a young professional through 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. 
• Develop a deep understanding of Shedd Aquarium’s animal care and welfare. 
• Willingness to interact with both internal and external audiences via telephone or in-person. Updates Coordinator of Communications & Public Relations accordingly. 
• Light media pitching; returning media requests. 
• Assist in drafting press releases and pitches. 
• Assisting staff with internal communication needs. 
• Coordinating logistics for media interview opportunities and events. 
• Other projects as assigned.  

Projects May Include 

• Work closely with the Coordinator of Communications & Public Relations to provide support for the aquarium’s integrated public relations plans, primarily focusing on animal care efforts. 
• Draft pitches, story ideas and communications assets (fact sheets, press releases, key messages, etc.) to help share our stories about the second-year of Shedd’s newest special exhibit “Underwater Beauty,” animal health practices and studies, animal training and enrichment, and much more.  
• Produce media monitoring reports to showcase how Shedd is perceived in the news and compiling secured media placements by using Trendkite PR analytics software.  
• Use the Cision media contact database to pull media lists or add to existing lists for press announcements. 
• Assist PR staff with internal communication needs, including all staff meetings six times a year, internal media trainings with new staff/spokespeople, and more.  
• Respond, gather information and assist with coordinating media requests.  
• Identify new reporters and influencers with interest in travel and tourism, cultural attractions/museums, animals, etc. to engage with Shedd Aquarium.  
• Participate in team brainstorm sessions prior to “celebration days,” announcements or campaigns. 
• Support the greater public relations team on general projects. 

Qualifications 
 
Education: Enrolled as a junior or senior in an undergraduate program for public relations, communications or journalism.  
 
Other Skills:  
The Communications & Public Relations intern must possess excellent written and verbal communications skills, baseline knowledge about AP Style and preferably have previous experience with some light media relations. A 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.  
 
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 
Two to four days a week; 16 to 24 hours weekly (set schedule will be determined based on intern availability). A minimum of 12 weeks is preferred.

Application Deadline: August 31st, or until positions are filled, whichever comes first.