Strategic National Internship
Rachel
Experience Information
Employer: Strategic National
Job Title: Intern
Major: Advertising & Public Relations
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: No
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Strategic National is a political consulting firm in Grand Rapids that represents conservative candidates nationwide. Strategic National's mission is to empower grassroots activists and average citizens, so we can help good candidates revolutionize their neighborhoods, states, and nation, one campaign at a time.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
I worked on the Lt. Gov. Brian Calley's reelection campaign, specifically in the area of precinct delegate recruitment. Since in Michigan the lt. gov. is elected by delegates at state convention, the recruitment of these individuals is extremely important. My tasks and projects included volunteer coordinating more than 2,000 volunteers at the Republican Leadership Conference on Mackinac Island, gathering endorsements for the candidate, organizing and monitoring Calley's social media and incoming email, contributing to the scheduling of campaign stops, and more.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Through this experience I learned the importance of field strategy. Even in our advanced digital age, field strategy is still very important to the development of a successful campaign. I learned so much about field strategy throughout this experience. I also learned about the importance of building bridges and making connections as well as maintaining relationships with valuable contacts in the industry.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of this experience was the relationships I built and the people I met. My experience ended in a job offer with an affiliate company, so obviously that was my favorite part of the whole experience. I also valued the lessons I learned in campaign strategy and the way that different campaigns often impact each other.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This experience influenced my future career goals in that it solidified my desire to work in political campaign development. I also learned that I favor online strategy over field strategy. I accepted a position with a digital political consulting firm in Indianapolis, The Prosper Group. When I entered college I thought that I would work for and advertising firm, but I am genuinely happy with the opportunities that I have been given to work in political consulting.