This week, our chapter was visited by two Ohio University alumni, Devin Hughes (‘11) and Sami McNeal (‘22). Devin and Sami graduated with degrees in journalism with emphases in PR and strategic communications. Today, both Devin and Sami work at Geben Communication, an agency located in Columbus that specializes in strategy, PR and digital marketing with clients across numerous industries. Devin is Geben’s Executive Vice President, with ten years of experience with the company. Sami, who recently celebrated her fourth year with Geben, is a Client Success Manager with strong involvement in Geben’s internship program. Throughout their presentation, Sami and Devin gave us a window into what it looks like to work at the Geben office, along with some tips for internships.
Sami and Devin explained that Geben is flexible, meaning that Geben employees are encouraged to structure their days and calendars in a way that works for them as individuals. Sami explained that while she prefers to start her work day around 8:30 a.m., Devin prefers to start his in the earlier hours of the morning, and that’s ok! While Geben may encourage flexible schedules, they still play by house rules, some including “Embrace the chaos,” “No jerks allowed,” “Celebrate Success,” “Plan Smart, Implement Smarter” and many more. Sami also brought special attention to Geben’s new Visibility Lab, which allows the Geben team to provide non-profit leaders with “a program created by Geben to help mission-driven organizations strengthen their voice, tell their story, and show up consistently.” Geben provides these services free of charge to 40 nonprofits every quarter! Finally, Sami and Devin provided our chapter with some advice for landing an internship, which is listed below.
Sami and Devin’s “Internal Scoop on Internships“
- It Pays to Stay Connected.
- Find Ways to Stand Out.
- Reach Out to us Directly.
- Research the Company.
- Be Results-Driven.
Connect with Sami and Devin on LinkedIn!
Ella Neighborgall is majoring in Communication Studies and minoring in PR & Advertising. You can connect with Ella here.