The SPC internship is a dynamic 13-week rotational program that immerses interns in hands-on experiences across departments, providing a comprehensive understanding of the print marketing business. This past summer, Emma and Lucas embarked on this exciting journey and shared their takeaways.
How did the rotation through departments help you see the bigger picture of the print industry, marketing services, and production procedures?
Emma: The department rotations allowed me to see how much work, time, skill, and knowledge goes into completing each project. The marketing team here wears many different hats. While they oversee the creative and design process, they help build art structures, create brand guides, and collaborate with the other departments.
Lucas: Before my internship at SPC my knowledge base was production-focused, and I had limited exposure to print adjacent departments such as data processing and mail. The internship’s rotation through nearly all the departments at SPC has significantly broadened my perspective. Seeing the many elements come together to create a cohesive process has enhanced my understanding of the print industry overall.
What has been the most valuable advice you’ve received from a mentor or colleague during your internship experience?
Emma: The most meaningful advice that I have received while at SPC has been to always be genuine. In any business industry, people want to work with someone they know they can trust and have their best interest at heart.
Lucas: The most valuable piece of advice came from my team leader, Vel. He encouraged me to always keep an open mind and to strive to learn as much as possible, emphasizing that it’s impossible to know everything. This advice has perfectly encapsulated my internship experience, a continuous learning experience, and helped me approach each task with a willingness to grow.
What has been the highlight of your internship experience?
Emma: I really enjoyed my time in the account management department. I had the opportunity to lead a project from beginning to end, which was a significant highlight for me. It wasn’t an easy task, but it allowed me to challenge myself and apply everything I had learned.
Lucas: One of the highlights of my internship was spending time in the pressroom. After years of learning about print, it was rewarding to see full-scale production using large presses to create massive quantities of printed pieces. Witnessing the entire print production process in action and understanding the detailed steps and requirements involved deepened my appreciation for the field and expanded my practical knowledge.
How has this internship influenced your future academically and your chosen career path?
Emma: Before this internship, I was not set on what I wanted to do. I am a marketing student with a big interest in sales, but that could lead me on a million different paths. Being here at SPC has helped me discover what my strengths and weaknesses are both professionally and personally. I’m excited to have accepted a sales internship with SPC for next summer, which will narrow in on my specific interests.
Lucas: The internship has significantly broadened my perspective on potential career paths. My exposure to print-adjacent areas like data processing has sparked an interest in these fields as well. Overall, the experience has opened new possibilities for my future academic and career choices, allowing me to explore a range of roles within the print industry and beyond.
What has been your favorite Chicago experience this summer?
Emma: My favorite Chicago experience was the chance to attend Lollapalooza. I met so many amazing people and got to see some of my favorite artists live for the time. I also have loved the thrifting/vintage fashion here! I don’t have access to a lot of vintage fashion in Michigan and have probably doubled my wardrobe since being in Chicago!
Lucas: My favorite experience in Chicago this summer has been playing pickup soccer in various areas throughout Chicago. It has been a great way to explore the diverse neighborhoods and connect with people from these areas. Each game helped introduce me to new locations in the city but also the unique communities that reside there.
