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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 developingdigital content, managing social media, and supporting marketing and public relations effortsfor 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

+ Develop digital content (articles, newsletters, press releases, etc.) that aligns with RHCJC’s mission and engages audiences.

+ Contribute to social media platforms (Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn) including content creation, scheduling, and community engagement.

+ Monitor trends and analytics to optimize engagement and audience growth.

+ Assist in PR and marketing efforts, including writing media pitches, press releases, and promotional materials.

+ Support branding and outreach campaigns through digital storytelling, email marketing, and audience interaction.

+ Engage with community members and stakeholders, responding to inquiries and fostering positive public relationships.

+ Collaborate with reporters, photographers, and videographers to amplify news stories and drive engagement.

+ Help organize and promote center events such as media literacy workshops, town halls, and community discussions.

+ Maintain consistency in brand messaging across all digital platforms.

+ 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 fieldORa 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 all audiences.

+ Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks under deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

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).

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.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.