Student - Communications Intern

Purdue University purdue.edu Open · verified Sep 21, 2026

Gary Junior Communications

At a glance

Entry-level Communications role at Purdue University. Gary.

Pay not stated Communications salary

RoleCommunications

SeniorityJunior

LocationGary

Role brief

Growth Roles summary, based on the employer's posting.

What you'll do

Create and refresh e-blasts, web content, social posts, and simple graphics for local audiences
Promote programs and events by preparing messaging and arranging materials around each activity
Draft, schedule, and monitor social content while responding to community engagement
Keep outreach photos, videos, and digital files organized for documentation and future use
Track basic response signals such as post activity and attendance to inform team discussions

What you bring

You’re a PNW Work-Study student interested in communications, service, or nonprofit work
You can use Facebook, Instagram, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel at a basic level
You understand HTML, website content updates, and graphic design
You communicate clearly in writing and conversation and can work independently or with a team
You’re organized, creative, and ready to learn; Canva, Adobe tools, or related experience help

Who this fits

This role suits a student who wants hands-on communications practice in a community-service setting and welcomes mentoring. You’ll work with the Executive Director and staff, attend weekly planning meetings, and commit to five to ten hours each week. The position begins in fall 2026 or spring 2027 and is based in Gary.

From the employer

Job Summary

Coates Inc. seeks a student to support community outreach and communication activities that increase public awareness of programs, events, and resources serving students and families. This position emphasizes applied learning, mentorship, and service, allowing the intern to build marketing and communication skills while contributing to the organization’s mission and community impact. The intern will work under the guidance of the Executive Director and collaborate with staff on outreach efforts tied to programming and events.

Start Date: Fall 2026/ Spring 2027

Hours: 5-10 hours/week, including weekly planning meetings with the supervisor

Pay: $12.00/hour

Join us at Coates Inc. to gain valuable experience while making a meaningful impact in a supportive environment!

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

Community Outreach & Communications Support

· Assist with the creation and updating of community-facing communication materials, including e-blasts, website updates, social media content, and basic graphics, under staff guidance.

· Support event and program promotion by helping prepare outreach content and organizing materials before and after events.

· Assist with maintaining the organization’s social media presence, including drafting posts, scheduling content, and engaging with community audiences with supervision.

· Help organize and maintain photo, video, and digital content used for outreach and documentation.

Planning, Collaboration & Learning

· Contribute ideas and feedback during team discussions related to community outreach and public communication efforts.

· Assist with organizing content and outreach schedules to support coordinated communication.

· Help collect basic engagement information (such as post interactions or event attendance counts) to support staff reflection on outreach effectiveness.

· Participate in regular supervision and check-ins focused on skill development, feedback, and reflection on how communications support community access to services.

Qualifications

· Familiarity with social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram etc.

· Interest in community service, communications, or nonprofit work

· Basic computer proficiency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)

· Experience with Canva or Adobe tools (InDesign & Photoshop) is helpful but not required

· Knowledge of HTML, website content management, and graphic design

· Strong written and interpersonal communication skills

**Bilingual is a plus.

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team

· Organized, creative, and eager to learn

· Previous internship or related experience in marketing or communications a plus

Education

PNW Work-Study Student

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt