Internship: Digital Writing/Social Media/Public Relations, Roy Howard Community Journalism Center

Internship: Digital Writing/Social Media/Public Relations, Roy Howard Community Journalism Center

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Internship: Digital Writing/Social Media/Public Relations, Roy Howard Community Journalism Center.

Position Details Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States

Division School of Media and Communication Position Type Staff Employment Status Part Time Grant Funded Yes Pay Grade

Generic Grade

Posting Close Date Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary
This  Spring 2026 Internship  position (Digital Writing, Social Media, and Public Relations) is a paid, internship designed for students and recent graduates who are passionate about content creation, audience engagement, and strategic communication. Interns will gain real-world experience developing digital content, managing social media, and supporting marketing and public relations efforts for the Roy Howard Community Journalism Center (RHCJC). This opportunity is open to:

Current communication students from Mississippi colleges and universities who are interested in digital media, public relations, marketing, and brand storytelling.

Recent graduates who completed a degree in communication, public relations, marketing, strategic communication, or a related field between Fall 2024 and Fall 2025.

The internship is available at our Hattiesburg, Long Beach, and Jackson locations.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

1. Develop digital content (articles, newsletters, press releases, etc.) that aligns with RHCJC’s mission and engages audiences.
2. Contribute to social media platforms (Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn) including content creation, scheduling, and community engagement.
3. Monitor trends and analytics to optimize engagement and audience growth.
4. Assist in PR and marketing efforts, including writing media pitches, press releases, and promotional materials.
5. Support branding and outreach campaigns through digital storytelling, email marketing, and audience interaction.
6. Engage with community members and stakeholders, responding to inquiries and fostering positive public relationships.
7. Collaborate with reporters, photographers, and videographers to amplify news stories and drive engagement.
8. Help organize and promote center events such as media literacy workshops, town halls, and community discussions.
9. Maintain consistency in brand messaging across all digital platforms.
10. Perform other duties as assigned by the center director.

Minimum Qualifications 
Currently enrolled in a Mississippi college or university pursuing a degree in public relations, marketing, strategic communication, journalism, digital media, or a related field OR a recent graduate (Fall 2024-Fall 2025) from one of these programs.
Strong interest in digital communication, social media strategy, and/or brand storytelling.
Ability to write clear, engaging content for different audiences and platforms.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong writing and storytelling skills for digital audiences.
• Understanding of social media trends, best practices, and analytics tools.
• Ability to develop and maintain a consistent brand voice across platforms.
• Basic knowledge of public relations and marketing strategies.
• Experience with graphic design, video content creation, or multimedia storytelling.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to engage