What's interning at Hawthorne like?

I have always been passionate about the intersection between media and politics, how they interact with one another, drive civic engagement, and create social change. I haven’t always, however, known where to go to find this kind of work. That is, until a Handshake post led me to learn about Hawthorne Strategy Group.

As I looked at the case studies from past clients, what stood out to me most was how Hawthorne uses communications not just to shape narratives, but to strengthen communities, which clearly showed through in the kind of clients they work with and the projects they create for them.

That sense of purpose was already evident on my first day. From my first day, they made me feel part of the team, even noting my gluten allergy for future team lunches and snacks (a seemingly small but HUGE detail for me). From that moment, I knew I had joined a team that valued people as much as it valued work.

One of my favorite learning moments so far came while working with Big Shoulders Fund, one of Hawthorne’s long-standing clients. In the week leading up to an event at one of their schools, I helped pitch the story to media and coordinated logistics to secure media coverage. By the time the day arrived, I was anxious – some confirmations were still up in the air, and the fast pace of media coordination was new to me. But once we got to the school, everything moved in real time. Several journalists arrived, and our team worked together to connect them with students and teachers for interviews. The energy was fast-paced and exciting, and I quickly learned how much adaptability matters in this field. 

Seeing the event come together was incredibly rewarding. It was one of those moments where everything I’d learned clicked into place. I understood, in practice, how public relations bridges people.

In just a few weeks, I had learned more about communications than in any classroom experience. I’ve gained confidence in writing and pitching, a deeper understanding of how to tell stories that resonate, and a newfound appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that makes every campaign possible. 

As someone who has always believed in the power of storytelling to drive change, this experience has felt like finding my place. At Hawthorne, I’ve seen firsthand how strategy and empathy can come together to shape narratives that matter. I can’t wait to keep learning, growing, and telling stories that make an impact.