An internship can be the moment everything clicks. For some communication students, it’s the “in” that leads directly to their first full-time job. For others, it’s a safe space to explore, try out a new field, and discover what does and doesn’t fit before graduation. Behind the scenes, U Career Success team helps students navigate these opportunities and make the most of them.

Two of the team’s leaders are Cameron Vakilian, associate director of internships and career success, and Giovanna Percontino, a career coach specializing in guiding communication students through career exploration. Together, they provide students with the tools, encouragement, and connections they need to step confidently into the professional world.

Why Internships Matter

Internships aren’t just about adding a line to your resume. They give you hands-on practice, help you grow durable skills, and show you how classroom learning applies to real jobs. The more experience you gain, the more career-ready you’ll be when you graduate.

Communication students regularly use internships to explore unexpected industries, discover new passions, and gain the kind of hands-on experience that sets them apart after graduation. Every role, paid or unpaid, has value. Even short-term opportunities can give you the skills and confidence to pursue competitive programs like KUER, Hinckley, or internships in corporate and creative industries.

Recently, communication major, Ava De St Jeor completed a summer internship at CentraCom, a telecommunications company serving much of central, north and western Utah. She gained skills in Excel, email etiquette, and office communication, all of which she says will benefit her future career.

“Seeing the impact CentraCom has on these communities has been rewarding, and I’ve loved meeting new people along the way,” De St Jeor reflects. “My advice to other students is to be bold: don’t be afraid to sell yourself and have confidence. I found this internship through word of mouth in my community… sometimes the best ones come from building connections and asking around.”

Finding the Right Fit

It’s never too early to start looking for an internship. Sophomore year is often the ideal time to begin the search, when you are more comfortable balancing classes and extracurriculars and ready to explore low-risk opportunities that provide exposure and insight. These experiences serve as stepping stones to formal programs, more competitive internships, and internships in corporate and creative sectors.

Many students worry about fitting an internship into their schedules or question whether unpaid experiences are worth it. Career Success coaches can help you make a plan that fits your situation. They can tailor an experience to your specific needs as well as connect you with university resources like the StepUp Fund which supports students financially when unpaid internships are the best fit.

Support from Career Success

The Career Success team is dedicated to helping you not only find internships but thrive in them. Before you schedule an appointment with the U Career Success team, take time to research. Look at start-ups in the location you’d like to work, explore what jobs may interest you, and talk with professionals in fields you are curious about. Even if you aren’t sure exactly where to start, draw on your coursework and assignments you enjoyed.

Communication students bring a wide range of skills—writing, creativity, client relations, and even the ability to adapt in an AI-driven workplace. This makes them uniquely versatile across industries. Consider exploring adjacent industries like marketing or working at a small firm in a versatile role where you can use a variety of the elements you use in your education.

“Get sleuth-y,” Percontino advises. “Get on the internet, figure out what’s robust, what’s growing in Utah. See what’s growing and where your passions could be an asset. Treat your internship search like a job. Be intentional”

The Career Success team also work one-on-one with students to identify opportunities, strengthen applications, and practice for interviews. They provide guidance on using job search platforms like Handshake, arrange mock interviews, and encourage students to research industries that align with their goals. In every case, the goal is to help students position themselves thoughtfully for the next step.

Ready to get started?

Schedule an appointment with the U Career Success team, explore opportunities on Handshake, or talk with your academic advisor about internships for credit.

• Meet with Cameron Vakilian through the College of Humanities advisor booking page or schedule an appointment.
• Connect with Giovanna Percontino on the Career Coach booking page or schedule an appointment.
• Explore opportunities on Handshake.