By Challan Kligman
Arcadia University, Class of 2027
As I wrap up my internship at Communication Solutions Group and prepare to return to Arcadia University for my senior year as a media and communication major, I reflect on how lucky I was to intern at such a great company. After working on so many unique projects and with different clients, I am certain that communications is the right field for me.
Favorite Experiences
While working at Communication Solutions, I gained hands-on experience across a wide range of projects. Although I enjoyed everything I worked on during my summer with the company, a few experiences stood out in particular. One of them took place on my very first day when I had the opportunity to accompany Jess, Communication Solutions’ digital marketing manager, on a photo shoot at the La Mott Fire Company. Beyond being my first photo shoot, it was especially interesting to see how those photos were later incorporated into Jess’s ongoing work for La Mott and used to develop content to recruit volunteer firefighters.
Another one of my favorite experiences was working with the Women’s Center of Montgomery County to help raise awareness of its 50th year of serving domestic violence survivors throughout the county, including the celebration and release of its upcoming documentary. From creating graphics to writing press releases and editing videos, this may have been my most enjoyable project because it allowed me to apply a variety of my skills while giving back to a client with such a dedicated and meaningful mission.
In addition, as an honorable mention, it was an honor to be invited to the company outing at Homemade by Bruno in South Philadelphia, where everyone enjoyed a Thursday afternoon learning how to make incredible homemade pasta.
What I Learned
On top of learning how to make my own gnocchi, this internship has given me the chance to strengthen my practical skills, which will be invaluable as I move forward in my communications career. Working for various clients, including fire departments, school districts, municipalities and nonprofit organizations, gave me the opportunity to work on a wide range of communications projects. These included developing content calendars, writing strong press releases, designing social media graphics and editing videos. Further, I had a rare opportunity to research and learn more about what goes into preparing a response to a request for proposal, giving me a better understanding of the planning, detail and strategy involved in running a business. These experiences helped me become confident in adapting my work to different audiences and communication styles.
Final Thoughts
Above all, I am especially grateful for how kind and welcoming everyone at Communication Solutions Group was throughout the entirety of this internship. From my first day, the team made me feel included, encouraged me to ask questions and gave me the confidence to take on projects. Their support made this experience not only professionally valuable but also personally meaningful. As I return to university for my senior year, I will carry this newfound knowledge, confidence and memories forward from this summer. I am very thankful for the opportunity to have been part of Communication Solutions and for everything I learned along the way.
A rising senior at Arcadia University, Challan is from Jenkintown, PA. Busy with work and school, Challan always makes time for his friends, family, and dog, Shakira. On a weekend, you can find him meandering around town trying to keep his step count up, out with friends, or taking it easy and napping on the couch.