Communication Junior to Spend Summer Interning at BCPM in New York City

New York City is like a second home for communication junior Allie Baer. Having traveled to the city almost every year since she was young will make her summer internship position with BCPM a smooth transition. BCPM is a global public relations agency, specializing in brand building and communications in New York City.

"I thrive in fast-paced environments and am thrilled for this opportunity," said Baer.

Baer’s personal and professional connections enabled her the chance to interview with the company over the phone. Just a few days later, she was offered the position, which she excitedly accepted.

"I can’t wait to be a part of such an outstanding agency," Baer said. "I knew BCPM was a top public relations agency and it was started by two strong women, which really appealed to me. They offered me a position in the fashion department, so I am excited to learn more about that industry as well."

Baer admires how the company got its start. She said it shows women choosing their career paths and pursuing what they want to do.

"Their client list spoke volumes for me," Baer said. "BCPM works with high-level clients, including fashion and travel. I’ve been interested in both of these industries as it relates to public relations and now I will get to learn from professionals how these industries work."

She describes this internship as her first real-world experience.

"I’m on my own at MSU, but this experience will be different," Baer said. "I will be working and living on my own, which is exciting and scary all at the same time."

How she started the search process

Baer started networking and applying for internships earlier this fall to get ahead of the summer internship season. At the time, she was a part of a course that met for two hours on Fridays, facilitated by Karin Hanson and Rachel Ruis. Each week, they brought in MSU alumni to speak to the class and offer advice about the networking process, the importance of attending career fairs and industry insight.

"They told us to not be afraid to reach out," Baer said. "Talk to people, learn about what they do. A lot of their advice was about trying new things and how to use LinkedIn effectively, as well."

Baer used LinkedIn to look for internships and find alumni at companies she wanted to work at. Now, she’s using LinkedIn to find her peers she will be working with this summer at BCPM.

Her advice?

"Don’t be afraid to reach out," Baer said. "Spartans are always willing to help you. Don’t give up. I started applying in September and I just accepted this internship within the past month. Everything happens for a reason. Once I interviewed with BCPM, the process took only six days. So don’t give up and don’t get down on yourself. Always keep trying."

By Meg Dedyne