For many students and recent graduates, landing an entry-level job in the communications industry feels more challenging than ever. As technology and artificial intelligence continue to evolve and rapidly transform the workplace, employers are increasingly seeking candidates who have practical experience and a strong understanding of the industry. Internships serve as a way for aspiring professionals to gain real-world industry experience, build meaningful connections, and get that much-needed foot in the door. This summer, SDI welcomed three exceptional individuals into our intern program: Kristen Bradson, Leahrose Davis, and Sage Manning. Read on for a behind-the-scenes look at life as an intern at Susan Davis International, as told by our interns themselves.
We are Kristen, Leahrose, and Sage, SDI’s 2026 summer interns. Among us we span two countries, three universities, and three different paths into the communications and public relations world. Kristen recently graduated from Penn State’s Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications and is stepping into her career in public relations and public affairs. Sage is a rising senior at the University of Colorado Boulder’s College of Communication, Media, Design, and Information, pursuing a major in strategic communication with an emphasis in public relations and a minor in media studies. Leahrose is entering her final year at Maynooth University in Kildare, Ireland, with a joint major in Business Management and Politics, finding her way to D.C. through the Washington Ireland Program.
In our time so far at Susan Davis International, we’ve had the privilege of gaining hands-on experience working alongside communications professionals while contributing to a variety of client projects. We all arrived at SDI with different backgrounds and experiences, yet we share a common goal in that we are keen to develop our professional skills in public relations, learn from seasoned professionals in the field, and gain a deeper understanding of the industry throughout our time here. Although we all began on different paths, they’ve led us to meet here at SDI to embark on the journey of a summer with a leading public relations agency. “We are confident that our varied backgrounds and unique perspectives will allow us to learn from and alongside each other through collaboration and teamwork,” said Sage.
Even in the first few days we recognized the value of what we could learn from a woman-owned and women-led business. From the way client relationships are managed, to the way the team operates, we have observed strong female leadership, collaboration, and mentorship in action. As emerging women in business and leadership, we find it deeply powerful and affirming to step into an agency where women serve in leadership roles. In doing so, they serve as role models for our generation of leaders. Leahrose often reminds us of the famous saying: “If she can see it, she can be it.” This summer, we are seeing it every day!
We all agree that this is a delightfully unexpected social experience. Because none of us are native to D.C., it’s very nice to be able to navigate a new professional environment and city away from home together. Exploring the city alongside one another allows us to share new experiences, making the transition much easier, and way more enjoyable! In addition to the social aspect, interning at SDI has already provided us with valuable professional experience. It’s one thing to study business, politics, or PR in school, but stepping into a recognized, established agency with real-world clients is entirely different. Each day presents us with exciting opportunities to build our skills and confidence.
One of the biggest surprises has been the wide variety of clients and projects. Contributing to projects that support organizations that truly make a difference in the world has been nothing short of rewarding. No two days look the same, and we have already gained exposure to a wide range of clients and are eager to learn more from inspiring industry experts directly. “Working in the nation’s capital provides us with such a unique opportunity to see communications at work daily,” said Kristen. “It’s so exciting to work with a variety of government agencies, nonprofits, corporations, and advocacy organizations while driving meaningful change.”
As the summer continues, we couldn’t be more thrilled about the journey ahead as we deepen our understanding of the communications industry, take on new responsibilities, and continue developing professionally. We look forward to continuing to grow, contribute, and make the absolute most out of this remarkable opportunity at SDI.