English/Creative Writing Major Maranda Douthett '22 Gains Practical Experience at Responsival Internship Student Profile

Describe your Responsival internship experience.

Under the guidance of Responsival's digital marketing manager, I worked on a variety of assignments related to elevating the web and social media presences of our clients. I searched for blogs that aligned with their values and products. I completed keyword research to improve traction to their websites. I also looked for social media influencers who could help market their products on their social media pages. 

The internship reinforced how important it is to grasp how to write for a target audience, which is a skill we practice a lot in the English and Creative Writing program. It is so important to keep in mind who your audience is, what you are trying to say and what you want them to walk away thinking or feeling.

In what ways do you feel this internship will help you with your career goals?

This internship has broadened my view of the careers I can pursue with my degree. After working closely with Dawnese Booker in the Professional Career-Readiness Center and having a few interviews over break, I see that this internship has made me a more attractive job candidate in fields outside of creative writing, such as marketing, communications and public relations. Employers appreciate not only experience but diversity in skills, and this internship will help set me apart from other applicants.

What makes the English and Creative Writing program at Point Park stand out from other universities?

I'm a transfer student from Slippery Rock, and, while both schools have excellent English and creative writing programs, Point Park has provided a far better experience for me. With the smaller class sizes, my learning experience is more intimate with my peers and professors, and my professors are easily accessible. Point Park's English and creative writing faculty truly show us every day that they care about our improvement, providing a rigorous course load and workshops that encourage our creativity. Additionally, with Point Park's diverse campus community, attending this program allows me to celebrate the differences of others in a safe and respected way.

Which staff and faculty members have had a positive impact on your learning experience?

Dawnese Booker from the Professional Career-Readiness Center has truly been my rock. When I first came to her about wanting to find an internship, I was unsure of where or how to start my search. She was quick to assist my needs. Every conference I had with her boosted my motivation to continue my search for a beneficial internship. She has made an immense impact on my learning experience.

Professor Barbara Barrow, Ph.D., has had a positive impact on me as well. She was someone I knew I could be 100% honest with and still have her utmost support along my internship journey. She listened to my struggles of juggling a full-time course load and my internship with a part-time job. All of her advice truly helped me to persevere despite the tough projects I took on. Her confidence in me made me stronger.

Why would you recommend Point Park to a prospective student?

Point Park's campus is extremely diverse in terms of students and faculty. The students come from all different walks of life, and all the faculty here are equally accommodating to our learning experiences. I would recommend Point Park to a prospective student because of the opportunities that are readily available in Downtown Pittsburgh and the surrounding area. The University offers great connections to different kinds of internships and jobs that are helpful to anyone's future.

Connect with Maranda Douthett '22

More About: internships, creative writing, success story, English, School of Arts and Sciences, faculty