Hannah Harrison '22 | University of Portland

Hannah Harrison '22

Photo of Hannah Harrison standing on a beachDigital Intern at Clear Talent Group

Majors: Communication and Theater

I was a Digital Intern at Clear Talent Group, a talent agency based in L.A. and New York. In the digital department, the agents represent influencers; as an intern, I conducted social media audits, researched possible job opportunities, curated social media posts, and took notes on meetings with clients and employers.

I learned what brands look for in an influencer, brand awareness, and how to utilize the algorithm for a successful profile. My favorite moment as an intern was presenting a social media audit I worked on to a client. The audit required attention to detail and being allowed to present made me feel trusted and valued!

To find this internship, I collected a list of reputable talent and casting agencies that consistently produced admirable work. I applied to every one of them, including Clear Talent Group. Every few weeks I checked company websites to see the status of their summer internship plans. To current students searching, I would say this: you have to fight for it! Do not be afraid to send those emails and make opportunities for yourself. It is very competitive out there so do not be discouraged when you apply to various places without a response – you’re probably surrounded by other students who are in application limbo.

An internship is a great way to find your footing and to decipher what you like and dislike. The people who spoke to me along the way about their own path stressed the importance of working in an environment that you genuinely enjoy and are respected in. Through conversations, I learned that in the entertainment business, different jobs can get your foot through the door even if the process is different than you anticipated.