Penn State University

Part-Time Digital Storytelling and News Intern

University Park, IL (On-site)

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants. Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants. Job Description And Position Requirements Are you skilled enough to conduct research, ask probing questions and craft what you’ve gathered into an insightful, informative story? If you answered yes to those questions, and you’re eager to take on other communications challenges, then you might be a good fit with our team. The Smeal College of Business Office of Marketing and Strategic Communications is seeking two self-motivated, creative and intellectually inquisitive student communications interns with excellent writing, editing and communication skills to craft content for Penn State News feature stories and social media posts in support of our brand storytelling efforts. The successful candidates will have completed Communications 260W and be able to thrive in both independent and highly collaborative environments. Knowledge of AP, Chicago and University styles are preferred. A willingness to learn and integrate Smeal brand elements into work products is essential. Key Responsibilities Research, report and write original, bylined feature stories for Penn State News, highlighting faculty research, student success, alumni impact and college initiatives. Conduct interviews with students, faculty, staff and alumni, and synthesize information into clear, engaging narratives. Collaborate with members of the Office of Marketing and Strategic Communications on story development, revisions and publication timelines. Edit and revise copy based on feedback to meet editorial standards, accuracy requirements and deadlines. Assist with coverage of college events, including occasional evenings or weekends, as needed. Apply Smeal brand guidelines, AP style, University style, and Chicago style where appropriate consistently across all written content. Qualifications Completion of COMM 260W by the start of the internship. Strong writing, editing and proofreading skills, with demonstrated ability to produce polished, audience‑focused content. Curiosity and initiative, with the ability to identify compelling story angles and ask thoughtful interview questions. Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced communications environment. Comfort working both independently and as part of a collaborative team. Familiarity with AP style and/or institutional editorial standards (preferred). Interest in journalism, strategic communications, marketing or higher‑education storytelling. Position Details The internship will run through the fall 2026 semester, with the potential for rehire in spring 2027. Interns are expected to work 5–6 hours per week (not to exceed 8) for 12 weeks, including occasional evenings or weekends for events. The starting pay rate is $12/hour. How To Apply Interested applicants should upload a cover letter, resume and two writing samples. Application review will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines