Scripps Howard Majors Intern at Festival de Cannes
By Ariel Smith, public relations major
Ten students from Hampton University received the chance of a lifetime. These lucky students attended one of the most prestigious film festivals of their time, Festival de Cannes. The trip was made possible by Creative Minds, a program developed by Robert Ford to help college students or graduates launch their career in the film industry, whether in front of the camera or behind the scenes.
As part of attending the festival, some students were paired with companies, including IGM, Rogers & Cowan and many others, to work as interns. Two Scripps Howard Journalism and Communications students, broadcast major Derek Garlington and public relations major Ariel Smith, were paired up with the Rogers & Cowan, a public relations company. This company is based in three locations, Los Angeles, London, and New York City; however, only the Los Angeles and London locations represented the company at the festival. The team was lead by Nikki Parker, the executive vice president.
Every day, there were several tasks assigned to the interns, such as researching photographers and creating a spreadsheet organized by the country, name and email addresses. It seemed small to them, but in the end, the photographers were needed for the upcoming photo call for one of Rogers & Cowan’s client.
“It was very exciting seeing what seemed like a little task, play such a part in the end. Working for Rogers really showed me how much I enjoy PR and that I am in the right career field,” said Smith.
Other days, students helped make schedules, do research, run errands, handled press calls, and completed daily office tasks.
During the festival, Rogers & Cowan held a coming out party for one of their clients, Red Granite Pictures. Assisting with this big event was a great experience for the interns. Rogers & Cowan made them feel as if they were a part of the staff from the invitations that needed to be made and delivered, to working the door and directing the guests to the V.I.P. area. These lucky interns also got the chance to see Kanye West perform live, as he was the talent for the evening. The event was a huge success.
The Creative Minds program is growing in popularity, and in attendance. Last year, two students represented Hampton University compared to 10 this year, the largest Hampton University group attendance to date.
For more information about Creative Minds, please visit the website at http://creativemindsincannes.com.
