Job Details

Digital Media & Public Relations Intern

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Digital Media & Public Relations Intern.

Job Summary
The Digital Media & Public Relations Intern position is a paid summer internship designed for students 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). The internship is available at our Hattiesburg, Long Beach, and Jackson locations.

Primary Job 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 college or university and pursuing a degree in public relations, marketing, strategic communication, journalism, digital media, or a related field. Demonstrated interest in digital communication, social media strategy, or brand storytelling. Proficiency in writing clear and engaging content for diverse audiences and platforms.

Preferred Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Mississippi college or university.
• Previous experience managing social media for an organization, student media outlet, or brand.
• Basic proficiency in graphic design (Canva, Adobe Photoshop) and video editing (Adobe Premiere Pro or similar).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)

• 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 diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks under deadlines.

About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.